yyy 11 1 II li 11 llllll mmm 1(t-gpetkefe: ttovki iff*- the founding of a. Coifc&inihixCeiony! BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE PERKINS FUND i90>y '^7/** . )f^J/bU4^rO From tbe St. Memin portrait, in poaseasion of Dr, Thomas Addis Emmet. Memoirs of Major-General William Heath By Himself New Edition, with Illustrations and Notes Edited hy William Abbatt To which is added Xhe Accounts of the Battle of Bunker Hill by Generals Dearborn, Lee and Wilkinson New York William Abbatt %%i Fourth Avenue I9OI Edition limited to Five Hundred Copies (Seventy- five on Large Paper), of which this is No. 205 Cb v~V Ufa Original Title Page. MEMOIRS OF Major-General HEATH. CONTAINING ANECDOTES, Details of SKIRMISHES, BATTLES, and other Military Events, DURING THE AMERICAN WAR. WRITTEN BT HIMSELF. publico according to aft of Congrefof. PRINTED at BOSTON, B* I. THOMAS and E. T. ANDREWS, Faust's Statoe, No. 45, Newbdry-Street. Sold by them ; by I. Thomas, Worcefter ; by Thomas, Andrews S3" Pen- niman, Albany; by Thomas, Andrews Isf Butler, Baltimore; and by the Bookfellers throughout the Continent. avg. 1798. By an error which was discovered too late, the autograph of Gen. Heath was placed on the frontispiece. The portrait is really that of Gen. Wilkinson, who thus has two portraits in the book. *y&dvertt46me7i6. IT was not the intention, to publilh the Memoirs during the life-time of the writer. They were penned for his own review, and the information and fatisfa£tion of his own family, as well as pofterity : If any Ihould think their prefent publication in any refpe&s relative to himfelf as too oftentatious, candour, it is prefumed, will decide that there is no alternative, unlefs the Memoirs are mutilated infaSs, or denied at prefent a publication. The prefling importunity of very many is the fole reafon of their appearance at this time. Such of the fafts as happened under the obiervationj or within the immediate knowledge of the writer, have been impartially narrated : Thofe which he has been obliged to collecl: from other information, have been as faithfully at tempted ; but tlieir authenticity cannot be equally vouched for. There are doubtlefs many errors. It is the lot of man to be fallible. The AUTHOR. SKETCH OF GENERAL HEATH. IT is greatly to be regretted that no sufficient material exists for a satisfactory sketch of this valuable officer's life. He was a New Englander of old stock, born in Rox bury, Massachusetts, March 2, 1737, on the farm settled by the first of his name, the emigrant from England of 1636. From youth he took an active part in military matters, as a colonel in the Suffolk County militia and the Boston ar tillery, and in 1774 was commissioned as a brigadier-gen eral by the State, while a member of the Provincial ( 'on- gress and of the Committees of Safety and Correspond ence, as he had previously been of the General Assembly of the State. His first actual service was in the pursuit of the British on the retreat from Concord and Lexington, and was immediately followed by the hard work of train ing the undisciplined militia assembled at Cambridge. His experiences at Bunker Hill are best told in his own words, and on June 20 they were recognized by his ap pointment as major-general. When Washington organized the Continental Army, he accepted the lower rank of brig adier — an act characteristic of the man who in eight years' subsequent service seems to have had an " eye single " to doing his duty, without regard to punctilio, precedence, or the various petty things which smaller men stood stiffly upon. Washington early learned his worth, and promo tion to major-general came in August, 1776. From this time on the Commander-in-Chief reposed the utmost con fidence in him, and after the battle of White Plains ap pointed him to the command of the Hudson River posts. Tn 1777, after the surrender of Burgoyne and the march of vi his captive troops to Boston, General Heath had the very delicate and difficult task of guarding them until they were removed to Virginia. How many and varied the dif ficulties he encountered, the correspondence between him self and the chief British officers attests. In June, 1779, he returned to his former charge, the posts along the Hudson — an office of the first importance, deemed, in fact, by Washington second only to the com mand-in-chief. Here he remained, with headquarters at Peekskill, dur ing the rest of the war, excepting only a short period dur ing 1780, when he was in Rhode Island. At the close of the Revolution he was the second in com mand of the Army. Returning to Roxbury, he spent the remainder of his life there, honored by his fellow-citizens with every office which he could be persuaded to accept — senator, judge of probable, etc. — and finally was offered the lieutenant-gov ernorship which, however, he declined. At his death, January 24, 1814, he was the last survivor of the major-generals of the Revolution. He left several children, and some of his descendants still reside in Boston. EDITOR'S PREFACE. The substance of the notes which are added to the text is derived from the Revolutionary records published by the various States, the chief histories of the Revolution, Mr. F. B. Heitman's List of Conti nental Officers, Balch's Our French Allies and some few other authori ties. As regards spelling, my rule has been to let the original stand in the first instance of each case, with an explanatory note, but to correct it in each succeeding instance without further explanation. A few spellings are unchanged: n the left. Gen. Washington wrote to our General, to send down to the city all the boats that could be spared, from Kingsbridge and Fort Washington; intimating, that he might possibly find it necessary, at night, to throw over more troops to Long- Island. This order was immediately complied with, and the boats sent down; while the real intention of their use was fully understood. 29th. — The ships on the East River fell down to Hunt's Point. On the same night, che Americans evacuated Long- Island, bringing off their military stores, provisions, &c. Some heavy cannon were left. In this retreat from the is land, and which was well conducted, an instance of disci pline and of true fortitude was exhibited by the American guards and pickets. In order that the British should not get knowledge of the withdraw of the Americans, until their main body had embarked in the boats and pushed off from the shore, (which was a matter of the highest import ance to their safety) the guards were ordered to continue at their respective posts, with centinels alert, as if nothing ex traordinary was taking place, until the troops had em barked : they were then to come off, march briskly to ihe ferry, and embark themselves. But somehow or other, the guards came off, and had got well toward the landing- place, when they were ordered to face about, march back, and re-occupy their former posts; which they instantly obeyed, and continued at them, until called off to cross the ferry. Whoever has seen troops in a similar situation, or duly contemplates the human heart in such trials, will know how to appreciate the conduct of these brave men, on this occasion. 50 31st. — In the forenoon, the British appeared at New town, where they pitched a number of tents. Governor's Island was evacuated the preceding night by the Ameri cans. It was now evident that the next object of the enemy would be to get the city ; and it was equally so, that they would land somewhere on the island without it. This night, several of the regiments of Gen. Mifflin's brigade, of our General's division, lay on the hills towards New- York; and Gen. Clinton's brigade on their arms. The same evening, Hand's1, Shee's, Magaw's, Broadhead's, and Miles' battalions, joined our General's division. Some of these corps had suffered greatly, in the action on Long- Island. September 1st. — The British appeared to be encamped in several places on Long-Island. They had run in a ship between Nutten Island2 and Red Hook. 2d. — -They ran a ship past the city up the East River: she was several times struck by the shot of a 12 pounder, which was drawn to the river's bank. Major Crane of the artillery was wounded in the foot, by a cannon shot from this ship. It was now a question, whether to defend the city, or evacuate it, and occupy the strong grounds above. Every exertion had been made to render the works both numerous and strong ; and immense labor and expense had been bestowed on them; and it was now determined that the city should be obstinately defended. 4th.— Gen. Washington came up, and dined at our Gen eral's quarters. The same day, a detachment of the artil lery, with one 24 pounder, three 12 pounders, three 3 pounders, and a howitzer, joined the division. The enemy were plundering cattle on Long-Island, now fully in their possession. 1 Brigadier Edward Hand (1744-1802). Major Robert Magaw (17— -1790) was colonel of the Fifth Pennsylvania battalion in 1776, and commanded at Fort Washington when it was captured in Novem ber. Daniel Broadhead (1736-1809) was colonel of the Eighth Penn sylvania. Samuel Miles (1740-1805) commanded the Pennsylvania Rifles. 2 Nutten Island is the Governor's Island of the present .day. 51 5th. — Our General ordered a chain of videttes and centi nels to be formed at Morrisania, Hunt's and Frog's Point, &c. The British were pressing a great number of teams on Long- Island — their Head-Quarters were at Bedford. 7th. — The militia on Long-Island were ordered to mus ter, to raise recruits for the King. The General Officers of the American army were in council, at Head-Quarters in New- York. The British were now erecting a work, nearly opposite to ours at Horn's Hook, and the distance not great. 8th. — The British opened their battery against Horn's Hook Fort. The fire was briskly returned. The Ameri cans had one man killed, and two wounded. 9th. — In the morning there was a brisk cannonade on both sides. At Horn's Hook, the American artillery was so well plied that the British ceased firing. The British were said to be encamped in three divisions; one at New town, which was Head-Quarters, one at Flushing, and one at Jamaica. 10th. — The British landed a number of troops on Mon- tresor's Island. 11th. — The British continued to cannonade and bom bard our fort at Horn's Hook, and to land more troops on Montresor's Island. 12th. — The cannonade continued against our fort at Horn's Hook, and the British were moving their troops to wards the East River. This day, Col. Ward's regiment of Connecticut troops removed from Burditt's Ferry, and joined our General's division. The General Officers were in council. A former resolution to defend the city was rescinded, with three dissentients. 13th. — Four British ships, one of which was a two- decker, ran by the city up the East River. The cannonade and bombardment at Horn's Hook continued. This even- 52 ing, Col. Chester1, with five regiments, joined our Gen eral's division. 14th. — The British sent three or four ships up the North River, as far as Greenwich. The cannon and stores were removing from New- York, during the night. 15th. — About noon, the British landed at Kepp's2 Bay. They met with but small resistance, and pushed towards the city, of which they took possession in the afternoon. They availed themselves of some cannon and stores; but their booty was not very great. Here the Americans, we are sorry to say, did not behave well ; and here it was, as fame hath said, that Gen. Washington threw his hat on the ground, and exclaimed, "Are these the men with which I am to defend America?" But several things may have weight here; — the wounds received on Long-Island were yet bleeding; and the officers, if not the men, knew that the city was not to be defended. Maj. Chapman3 was killed, and Brig. Maj. Wyllys4 was taken prisoner. A few others were killed, wounded, and taken prisoners. The Ameri cans retreated up the island ; and some few, who could not get out of the city that way, escaped in boats over to Paulus Hook, across the river. The house in the fort at Horn's Hook, was set on fire by a shell, and burnt down. The fort was afterwards abandoned. 16th. — A little before noon, a smart skirmish happened on the heights west of Haarlem Plain, and south of Mor ris's house, between a party of Hessian Yagers5, British Light-Infantry and Highlanders, and the American rifle men and some other troops, which ended in favor of the 1 Col John Chester of Connecticut (1749-1809). He was at Bunker xllll. 2 Kepp's Bay— the present Kip's Bay, 34th to 37th Streets, East River, N. Y. 3 Major James Chapman, First Continentals. 4 Brigadier-Major John P. Wyllys of Wadsworth's brigade. He was killed at the battle of the Miami, 1790. 5 Jagers. 53 latter. The troops fought well on both sides, and gave great proof of their marksmanship. The Americans had several officers killed and wounded ; among the former, Lieut. Col. Knowlton, of the Connecticut line, and Capt. Gleason1, of Nixon's Massachusetts regiment, two excel lent officers; and Maj. Beech2, of one of the southern regi ments, a brave officer, was among the latter. This skirmish might have brought on a general action; for both armies were then within supporting distance of the troops which were engaged. It now became an object of high importance to calcu late, if possible, where the British would make their next attempt; and here the General Officers were divided in opinion. A part of them imagined that the British would! first endeavour to make themselves masters of the whole of New-York Island, and that, therefore, the reduction of Fort Washington and its dependencies would be their ob ject. Others supposed, that they would make a landing either at Morrisania, Hunt's or Frog's Point, which eventually would produce as certain a reduction of the works on the island, with very little loss to the British. It was therefore determined in council, to guard against both ; and for this purpose, 10,000 men were to be retained on the island, at and near Fort Washington. Our Gen eral's division was to be augmented to 10,000 men, and a floating bridge was to be thrown across Haarlem Creek, that these two bodies might communicate with and sup port each other, as circumstances might require; and Maj. Gen. Greene was to command the flying camp on the Jer sey side of the Hudson, which was to consist of 5000. The different arrangements took place accordingly. 17th. — The remains of Lieut. Col. Knowlton were in terred with military honours. The same day, a troop of 1 Micajah Gleason of Nixon's regiment. 2 " Beech " is obviously Major Andrew Leitch of the First Vir ginia. 54 militia light-horse arrived from Connecticut; others, and many of the militia were on their way to join the army. 18th.— Gen. Parsons' and Scott's brigades, and the bri gade commanded by Col. Dudley Sargent, joined our Gen eral's division; and Shee's, Magaw's, Haslett's1, Atlee's2, and Broadhead's battalions were ordered away. The Brit ish army encamped between the American army and the city. A picket from our General's division, of 450 men, con stantly mounted, by relief, at Morrisania; from which a chain of centinels, within half gunshot of each other, were planted, from the one side of the shore to the other, and near the water passage3, between Morrisania and Mon- tresor's4 Island, which in some places is very narrow. The centinels on the American side were ordered not to pre sume to fire at those of the British, unless the latter be gan ; but the British were so fond of beginning, that there was frequently a firing between them. This having been the case one day, and a British officer walking along the bank, on the Montresor's side, an American centinel, who had been exchanging some shots with a British centinel, seeing the officer, and concluding him to be better game, gave him a shot, and wounded him. He was carried up to the house on the island. An officer, with a flag, soon came down to the creek, and called for the American officer of the picket, and informed him, that if the American centi nels fired any more, the commanding officer on the island would cannonade Col. Morris's house, in which the officers of the picket quartered. The American officer immediately sent up to our General, to know what answer should be re turned. He was directed to inform the British officer, that 1 Colonel John Haslett of the Delaware regiment. He was killed at Princeton, January 3, 1777. 2 Colonel Samuel John Atlee (17 — 1786) of the Pennsylvania Musket Battalion. 3 The "water-passage" is now known at the Bronx Kills. 4 Montresor's is the present Randall's Island. the American centinels had always been instructed not to fire on centinels, unless they were first fired upon, and then to return the fire ; that such would be their conduct : as to the cannonading of Col. Morris's house, they might act their pleasure. The firing ceased for some time ; but a raw Scotch centinel having been planted one day, he very soon after discharged his piece at an American centinel, nearest to him, which was immediately returned; upon which a British officer came down, and called to the Ameri can officers, observing that he thought there was to be no firing between the centinels. He was answered, that their own began ; upon which he replied, "He shall then pay for it." The centinel was directly after relieved, and there was no firing between the centinels, at that place, any more ; and they were so civil to each other, on their posts, that one day, at a part of the creek where it was practi cable, the British centinel asked the American, who was nearly opposite to him, if he could give him a chew of to bacco: the latter, having in his pocket a piece of a thick twisted roll, pent it across the creek, to the British centi nel, who, after taking off his bite, sent the remainder back again. 20th. — The Commander in Chief, Maj. Gen. Putnam, and some other officers, came up to our General's division, and rode round the camp, which, by the return, given in on the next day, consisted of 8771 ; but of these there was 1294 sick present, and 1108 sick absent. On the morning of the 21st, between one and two o'clock, the light of a great fire was discovered to the southward, which proved to be at New-York; when a considerable part of the city was consumed. 22d. — Two seamen, belonging to La Brune, a Brit ish ship of war, which lay near Montresor's Island, de serted, and came to our General's quarters; and informed him, upon examination, that the British had then but a few men on the island, stating the number; that the piece of cannon, which had been put on the island, was taken back 56 again, on board La Brunej that there were a number of officers at the house, in which there was a considerable quantity of baggage deposited, &c. Our General supposed that these troops might be easily taken ; and, having called the General Officers of his division together, took their opinion, who all coincided with him in sentiment. He then communicated his intention to the Commander in Chief, who gave it his approbation. Two hundred and forty men were destined for this enterprise : the command was given to Lieut. Col. Michael Jackson, of the Massachusetts line, with Majors Logan1 and , whose name cannot be recol lected, of the New- York troops. They were to embark on board three flat-boats, covered by a fourth with a detach ment of artiliery, with a light three-pounder, in case it should be found necessary in retreating from the island. The mode of attack was settled, and every circumstance secured, to promise success. They were to fall down Haar lem Creek with the ebb. The time was so calculated, that the young flood was to be so much made, at the break of day, as to cover the flats at the island, sufficiently for the boats to float. Matters being thus settled, our General ordered the two sailors to be brought in : he then told them that in consequence of their information, an enterprise against the British troops on Montresor's Island was to take place that night ; that he had ordered them to be kept in safe custody until the next morning, when, if their dec larations respecting the state of the British on the island proved to be true, he would give them a passport to the back country, whither they wished to go ; but, in case their information was false, he would order them hanged im mediately, as spies; that he gave them the opportunity, if they had made a wrong statement to him, then to correct it. They both answered, with perfect composure, that they would cheerfully submit to the condition. Major Thomas Henly was now one of our General's Aids-de-camp. He 1 Major Samuel Logan, 5th New York. 57 importuned that he might go with the detachment. He was refused, and told that he had no business there; that he could exercise no command. He grew quite impatient, returned again to the General's room, and addressed him : " Pray, Sir, consent to my going with the party — let me have the pleasure of introducing the prisoners to you to morrow." All his friends present advised him not to go. The General finally consented. The troops, at the hour as signed, embarked. Our General informed them, that he, with others, would be spectators of the scene, from a cer tain point near Haarlem Creek. Notice had been given to the guards and pickets on the York Island side, not to hail the party as they went down. Unfortunately, the lower centinel had not been so instructed. He was nearly oppo site to the point where our General was to be; and just at the instant when he arrived, had challenged the boats, and ordered them to come to the shore. From the boats they answered, " Low ! we are friends." The challenge was re peated. The answer was, " We tell you we are friends — hold your tongue." A bounce into the water was heard; and instantly Maj. Henly came wading to the shore, stepped up to our General, patched him by the hand, and said, " Sir, will it do?" Our General, holding him by the hand, replied, " I see nothing to the contrary ;" to which Henly concluded by saying, " Then it shall do." He waded back to his boat, and got in. The centinel called again: " If you don't come to the shore, I tell you I'll fire." A voice from some one in the boats, was, " Pull away !" The boats went on and the centinel fired his piece. The boats reached the island almost at the moment intended, just as the glimmer of dawn was discoverable. The three field- officers were in the first boat. Their intention, on the mo ment of landing, was, for the two seconds in command to spring, the one to the right, and the other to the left, and lead on the troops from the other two boats, which were to land on each side of the first boat. The field-officers landed, and tbe men from their boat. The enemy's guard 58 charged them, but were instantly driven back. The men in the other two boats, instead of landing, lay upon their oars. The British, seeing this, returned warmly to the charge. " The Americans, finding themselves thus deserted, returned to their boat; but not until Lieut. Col. Jackson received a musket-ball in his leg, and Maj. Henly, as he was getting into the boat, one through his heart, which put an instant end to his life. The boats joined the others, and they all returned, having, in the whole, about 14 killed, wounded and missing; Maj. Henly deeply regretted. Had only one of the other boats landed her men, the success would have been very probable; but the two would have insured an execution of the whole plan, in the opinion of all concerned. The delinquents in the other boats were ar rested, and tried by court-martial, and one of the Captains cashiered.1 On the night of the 23d, the British got possession of the works at Paulus Hook. The Americans had previously taken off all the cannon and stores. On the afternoon of the 24th, the remains of Maj. Henly were interred by the side of Lieut. Col. Knowlton, on New York Island2, with military honours. 25th.- — The militia, which had come out from the west ern parts of the State of Connecticut, were discharged. 26th. — The General Officers were in council with a comi- mittee of Congress, sent to make inquiry into the condi tion of the army, and agree upon the necessary augmen tation. 27th. — The Council set again. The same day, Maj. Gen. Sulllivan, who had for some time been a prisoner with the British, came to Head-Quarters. The American prisoners which were taken in Canada, were sent round by water, and landed at Bergen Point, New-Jersey, where they were set at liberty. Gen. Thompson was among them. 1 John Wisner, of the Orange County militia. 2 In Trinity Cemetery. 59 28th. — Seven recruits for Maj. Rogers's1 corps, raising for British service, were taken, going to Long Island, and sent in. 29th. — There was an unusual movement of boats from Long Island to Montresor's Island, and an attack was soon expected. 30th. — The moving over of boats to Montresor's Island continued. The same day, a frigate went through Uell Gate, and came to anchor about 10 o'clock, A. M. near La Brune. . At 12 o'clock, she came to sail, and stood to the eastward. Just at evening another ship came up; and the next morning, October 1st, was at anchor in the channel, between Haarlem and Banian's2 or Eldridge's Island. 3d. — The Brigadier-Generals of our General's division were iu council, and several new works were laid! out; among others, a redoubt on the hill above Williams's Bridge. Our General, in reconnoitring his position, ac companied by Col. Hand, below the camp of the rifle corps, being apprehensive that the British might land on Frog's Neck, took a view of the causeway between West-Chester and the point. Upon the creek, which runs between these two, is a tide-mill and a plank bridge: at the mill, at the west end of the causeway, (the side of the American army) was at this time a range of cordwood, as advantageously situated to cover a party to defend the pass, as if con structed for the very purpose. After taking a full view, our General directed Col. Hand, immediately upon his re turn to his camp, to fix upon one of the best subaltern of ficers, and 25 picked men of his corps, and assign them to this pass, as their alarm-post at all times ; and, in case the enemy made a landing on Frog's Neck, to direct this officer immediately to take up the planks of the bridge; to have every thing in readiness to set the mill on fire ; but not to 1 Major Robert Rogers, the noted Indian fighter and hero of " Rogers' Rock," Lake George. 2 Baman's Island is now Ward's. 60 do it, unless the fire of the riflemen should appear insuffi cient to check the advance of the enemy on to the cause way; to assign another party to the head of the creek; to reinforce both, in case the enemy landed; and that he should be supported. Col. Hand made his arrangements accordingly. 4th. — The brig and tenders in the East River came down, and cast anchor near La Brune frigate; and the Roe buck and Phenix sailed up the North River, and joined the other ships which lay at anchor there. 5th. — There were some movements among the British; and a party appeared to be very busy at work, a little be low Haarlem. The same night, the Americans left the heights of Bergen. They were upwards of 2000 strong. They retreated as far back as Burditt's Ferry. 6th. — Orders were given for throwing up a new work on Haarlem Creek, below the wood at Morrisania. 7th. — Gen. Lincoln came to camp. He had come from Massachusetts with a body of militia. This was the first of his joining the main army. The same day the British were putting over horses from Horn's Hook to Long Is land, and fixing their pontoons. 9th. — Early in the morning, three ships, two of 40 guns, and one frigate, with two or three tenders, stood up the North River. They were briskly cannonaded from Fort Washington and Fort Constitution. They however passed our works and the chevaux-de-f rise ; the American galleys, small craft, and two large ships standing on before them. The two ships were ran on shore near Phillips's1 mills, and two of the galleys near Dobbs' Ferry. The enemy took possession of the two galleys, and got them off. A boat landed a number of men, who plundered a store, stove the casks, and then set the store on fire, and left it. The Ameri cans soon extinguished the fire. 1 Phillspse's — the present Yonkers. 61 Our General ordered Col. Sargent, with 500 infantry, 40 light-horse, Capt. Horton1 of the artillery, with two 12 pounders, and Capt. Crafts2 with a howitzer, to march im mediately, with all possible expedition, to Dobbs' Ferry. The enemy took a schooner loaded with rum, sugar, wine, &c. and sunk a sloop, which had on board the machine,3 in vented by, and under the direction of, a Mr. Bushnell, in tended to blow up the British ships. This machine was worked under water. It conveyed a magazine of powder, which was to be fixed under the keel of a ship, then freed from the machine, and left with clock-work going, which was to produce fire when the machine had got out of the way. Mr. Bushnell had great confidence of its success, and had made several experiments which seemed to give him countenance; but its fate was truly a contrast to its design. Our General's division was formed in line, with its ad vance, reserve, flank-guards, and artillery, all in order of battle, when they were moved down over the different grounds, which it was supposed might be the scene of ac tion. Some of this ground was very broken, and there were many fences. These afforded frequent opportunities for the troops to break off and form ; for the pioneers to open avenues, &c. and for the whole to become acquainted with every part of the ground, and the best choice of it, if suddenly called to action. 10th. — One of the ships which was ran aground, was got off by the Americans. Col. Sargent returned, having 1 Captain Jotham Horton of Knox's artillery. 2 Captain Edward Crafts of the same. 3 The Turtle deserved a better fate. It was the invention of David Bushnell of Saybrook, Conn., and had very nearly succeeded in blow ing up the British frigate Eagle in the previous August, when she lay near Governor's Island. Ezra Lee of Lyme, Conn., managed the craft, as Bushnell was sick at the time. Commander F. W. Barber, V. S. N., carefully examined the plans of the Turtle a few years ago. His con clusion was that "it seems to have been the most perfect thing of its kind that has ever been constructed, before or since." 62 left 180 men to watch the motions of the British up the river. 11th. — There was a considerable movement among the British boats below. This afternoon, Gen. Washington's pleasure-boat, coming down the river with a fresh breeze, and a topsail hoisted, was supposed, by the artillerists at Mount Washington to be one of the British tenders run ning down. A 12 pounder was discharged at her, which was so exactly pointed as unfortunately to kill three Americans, who were much lamented. The same day, sev eral of Gen. Lincoln's regiments arrived, two of which were posted on the North River. 12 th. — Early in the morning, 80 or 90 British boats, full of men, stood up the sound, from Montresor's Island, Long Island, &c. The troops landed at Frog's Neck, and their advance pushed towards the causeway and bridge, at West Chester mill. Col. Hand's riflemen took up the planks of the bridge, as had been directed, and commenced a firing with their rifles. The British moved towards the head of the creek, but found here also the Americans in possession of the pass. Our General immediately (as he had assured Col. Hand he would do) ordered Col. Pres cott, the hero of Bunker Hill, with his regiment, and Capt. Lieut. Bryant' of the artillery, with a 3 pounder, to rein force "the riflemen at West Chester causeway ; and Col. Graham of the New-York line, with his regiment, and Lieut. Jackson of the artillery, with a 6 pounder, to rein force at the head of the creek; all of which was promptly done, to the check and disappointment of the enemy. The British encamped on the Neck. The riflemen and Jagers kept up a scattering popping at each other across the marsh; and the Americans on their side, and the British on the other, threw up a work at the end of the causeway. Capt. Bryant, now and then, when there was an object, saluted the British with a field-piece. 1 John Bryant of Massachusetts. 63 In the afternoon, 40 or 50 sail of vessels passed up, and came to anchor off Frog's Point. The same evening, Gen. M'Dougal's brigade joined our General's division. 13th. — The brigade formerly under the command of our General, when he was Brigadier, joined his division. The division now became very strong. The General Officers of the army were this day in council, at our General's quar ters. 14th. — Our General, with the Generals under his com mand, reconnoitred the enemy at Frog's Neck ; afterwards, the General Officers of the army reconnoitred the various grounds. The same day, Maj. Gen. Lee was ordered to the command of the troops above Kingsbridge, now become the largest part of the American army. But Gen. Wash ington had desired him not to exercise the command for a day or two, until he could make himself acquainted with the post, its circumstances, and arrangements of duty. A great number of sloops, boats, &c. were passing the Sound eastward, just at dusk — probably conveying am munition, provisions, &c. to the troops at Frog's Point. 15th. — Five sailors came off from La Brune. They informed, that there was a large body of the British on Frog's Point, and that an attack might soon be expected. The scattering fire across the marsh continued, and now and then a man was killed. 16th. — Two works were discovered on Frog's Neck, nearly finished. The General Officers of the army rode to reconnoitre the ground at Pell's Neck,1 &c. and it was de termined that the position of the Amercan army should be immediately changed; the left flank to be extendi more northerly, to prevent its being turned by the British. 17th. — Wadsworth's and Fellows's brigades came to Kingsbridge. The British shipping, &c. continued mov ing eastward. 1 Pell's Neck is the present Rodman's Neck in the town of Pelham, N. Y. 64 18th. — The regiment at West Chester causeway had been relieved by another. The officer on command there, this morning, sent up an express to our General, informing him that the British were opening an embrasure in their work at the end of the causeway, and that he apprehended they intended, under a cannonade from this, to attempt to pass. Our General ordered one of his Aids to gallop his horse to the officer commanding the brigade, near Valentine's1, the nearest to West Chester, and order him to form his brigade instantly. Arriving, himself, by the time the brigade was formed, he ordered the officer to march, with the utmost ex pedition, to the head of the causeway, to reinforce the troops there; himself moving on with them. When the troops had advanced to about half the way between the head of the creek and the post at the head of the causeway, another express met him, informing him that the whole British army were in motion, and seemed to be moving to wards the pass at the head of the creek. Upon this, the brigade was ordered to halt, the whole to prime and load, and the rear regiment to file off by the left, and march briskly to reinforce the Americans at the pass, at the head of the creek. At this instant, Gen. Washington came up, and having inquired of our General the state of things, ordered him to return immediately, and have his division formed ready for action, and to take such a position as might appear best calculated to oppose the enemy, should they attempt to land another body of troops on Morri sania, which he thought not improbable. Our General immediately obeyed the order. The wind was now fresh at south-west. The British crossed to the other side of Frog's Neck, embarked on board their boats, crossed over the cove, landed on Pell's Neck, and moved briskly upwards. Three or four of the American regiments advanced towards them, and took a good position behind a stone fence. When the British had 1 Valentine's Hill, between Yonkers and Williams' Bridge. 65 advanced sufficiently near, they gave them a pretty close fire, which checked them, and even obliged them to fall back ; but being immediately supported, they returned vig orously to the charge. The action was sharp, for a short time; but the Americans were soon obliged to give way to superior force. Shepard's1, Read's, Baldwin's and Glover's regiments, had the principal share in this action.2 The Americans had between 30 and 40 men killed and wounded; among the latter, Col. Shepard, in the throat, not mortally, although the ball came well nigh effecting instant death. The loss of the British was not known, but must have been considerable. They advanced almost to New Rochelle, and halted. The American army extended its left. A number of boats went down towards New- York. It now became necessary, immediately to quit the position in the neighbourhood of Kingsbridge, the British being in the rear of the left of our army; and it is not a little un accountable that they did not attempt to stretch them selves across to the Hudson, which might have been done with great ease. They only moved higher up, on the other side of the little rivulet Bronx, which was generally ford- able. The White Plains were fixed upon for the next posi tion of the American army. A strong garrison was to be left at Fort Washington, and our General was to leave one of his regiments, to garrison Fort Independence. 21st. — At about 4 o'clock P. M. our General's division moved from above Kingsbridge, having, besides their light field-pieces, two heavy iron twelve-pounders. About 8 o'clock in the evening, they passed Gen. Lincoln's quar ters on Valentine's Hill, where the Commander in Chief was to spend the night. Our General waited upon him, to know if he had any particular commands for him. The 1 Col. Wm. Shepard (see p. 49). Col. Joseph Read, Thirteenth Mass. Col. Loammi Baldwin (1745-1807), Twenty-sixth Continentals. Col. John Glover (1732-1797), Fourteenth Mass. 2 For a full account of this action, which had very important results, see the Editor's *' Battle of Pell's Point, Pelham." 66 Commander in Chief only advised to send forward one of his regiments, to occupy the road coming from Ward's Bridge, nearly to whose farm the British had now ad vanced; lest, apprised of his moving, they should annoy his right flank, which, if it had been day-light, would have been open to their view: But before the column reached this cross road, it was learnt that Col. Jonathan Brewer's regiment of artificers, who were pretty strong, and well armed, were to pass the night at the entrance of the road, leading to the bridge before mentioned. The division reached Chaderton's Hill1, to the south of White Plains, at 4 o'clock in the morning of the 22d, having marched all night. The instant our General ascended the hill, he noticed, to appearance, many flashes, resembling the flash of the pan of a musket, on the other side of the lot; on which he immediately ordered a Captain, with a party, to discover what it was ; who returned, that he could not make discovery of any thing. These were indeed the flashes of discharged muskets at some distance; the height of ground having decoyed the appearance of the distance. Lord Stirling, who was before in this vicinity with his bri gade, had formed an enterprise against Maj. Rogers's corps. The old Indian hunter in the late French war, who had now engaged in the British service, with his corps, now lay on the out-post of the British army, near Marroneck.5 The enterprise was conducted with good address; and if the Americans had known exactly how Rogers' corps lay, they would probably have killed or taken the whole. As it was, 36 prisoners, 60 muskets, and some other articles were taken. The Major, conformably to his former gen eral conduct, escaped with the rest of his corps. This was a pretty affair ; and if the writer could recollect the name of the commanding officer3, with pride and pleasure he 1 Chatterton's Hill. 2 Mamaroneck. 3 The officer was Colonel Haslett (see p. 62) with his own and detachment of Maryland troops. 67 would insert it. He belonged to one of the southern lines of the army; and the whole of the party were southern troops. The same day, our General moved his division, and took post on the high strong ground, to the north of the court house. Gen. Sullivan's division reached the Plains in the course of the succeeding night. In the position of White Plains, our General's division was on the left of the line. On his left was a deep hollow, through which ran a small brook, which came from a mill-pond a little above. On the east side of this hollow was a very commanding ground, which would enfilade the division. The top of this high ground was covered with wood. To this hill he ordered Col. Malcolm1, with his regiment of New York troops, and Lieut. Fenno2 of the artillery, with a field-piece, di recting them to take post in the skirt of the wood, at the south brow of the hill. The ground, from our General's left to the right, descended gradually a very considerable distance, and then gradually ascended up to the plain, and still on to the right, to more commanding ground. On this was the American army formed, the line running nearly from north-east to south-west. There were some strong works thrown up on the plain, across the road, and still to the right of it. Chatterton's Hill was a little advanced of the line, and separated from it by the little rivulet Bronx. A body of the Americans were posted on this hill. Head- Quarters were on the plain, near the cross roads. Our General's division had only slight works for musketry. 23d. — A cannonade was heard towards the Hudson. The same evening, Col. Tyler's3, Huntington's4, and Throop's5 regiments, of General Parson's brigade, and of 1 Col. William Malcolm, N. Y. 2 Lieut. Ephraim Fenno, Knox's artillery. 3 Col. John Tyler, 10th Conn. 4 Col. Jedediah Huntington, 17th Conn. 5 Dyer (or Dyar) Throop of East Haddam, was lieutenant-colonel 25th Conn. Militia in 1775, colonel in 1780. 68 our General's division, moved, and took post at the head of King-street, near Rye Pond. Gen. Lee's division had not yet got up to the army. 24th. — At 5 o'clock, A. M. a firing of small arms was heard to the southward. It was a skirmish between 200 men of Gen. Lee's division, and 250 Hessians — 10 of the latter were killed, and two taken prisoners. The British continued moving up, but with great caution, their rear scarcely advancing, when they came to encamp again, much further than where the advance had moved from — they advanced in two columns. 25th. — Eight American regiments were ordered to be ready to march in the approaching night. Gen. Putnam was to command them ; and they were intended to make an attack on the enemy's advance, if it should appear to be practicable. The same morning, one 12 pounder at Dobbs' Ferry drove the British man-of-war off that place from her station. 26th. — Gen. Lee's division joined the army. In ascend ing some of the hills on the road, this division, encumbered with many wagons, was obliged to halt, and double the teams, in open view of the British, and at no considerable distance, who did not attempt to disturb them ; which, had they done, the loss of the cannon, wagons, &c. could not have been avoided. The troops would have bent their march unincumbered towards the Hudson; but the wag- one, &c. must have been left. Two or three British sold iers and a Hessian were taken prisoners, and sent in. 27th. — In the forenoon, a heavy cannonade was heard to wards Fort Washington. Thirteen Hessians and two or three British soldiers were sent in on this day. From the American camp to the west-south-west, there appeared to be a very commanding height, worthy of attention. The Commander in Chief ordered the General Officers who were off duty, to attend him to reconnoitre this ground, on this morning. When arrived at the ground, although very commanding, it did not appear so much so as other 69 grounds to the north, and almost parallel with the left of the army, as it was then formed. " Yonder," says Major- Gen. Lee, pointing to the grounds just mentioned, " is the ground we ought to occupy." " Let us go and view it," re plied the Commander in Chief. When on the way, a light- horseman came up in full gallop, his horse almost out of breath, and addressed Gen. Washington — " The British axe on the camp, Sir." The General observed — " Gentle men, we have now other business than reconnoitring," putting his horse in full gallop for the camp, and followed by the other officers. When arrived at Head-Quarters, the Adjutant-General (Read,1) who had remained at camp, in formed the Commander in Chief that the guards had. been all beat in, and the whole American army were now at their respective posts, in order of battle. The Commander in Chief turned round to the officers, and only said, " Gentle men, you will repair to your respective posts, and do the best you can." Our General, on arriving at his own di vision, found them all in the lines ; and, from the height of his post, found that the first attack was directed against the Americans on Chatterton's Hill. The little river Bronx, which ran betweeen the American right and this hill, after running round its north side, turned and ran down on the east and south-east. The British advanced in two columns. At this instant, the cannonade was brisk on both sides; directed by the British across the hollow and Bronx, against the Americans on the hill, and by them returned. Almost at the same instant, the right column, composed of British troops, preceded by about 20 light-horse in full gallop, and brandishing their swords, appeared on the road leading to the court-house, and now directly in the front of our General's division. The light-horse leaped the fence of a wheat-field, at the foot of the hill, on which Col. Malcolm's regiment was posted; of which the light-horse were not aware, until a shot from Lieut. Fenno's field- 1 Joseph Reed. 70 piece gave them notice, by striking in the midst of them, and a horseman pitching from his horse. They then wheeled short about, galloped out of the field as fast as they came in, rode behind a little hill in the road, and faced about; the tops of their caps only being visible to our General, where he stood. The column came no further up the road, but wheeled to the left by platoons, as they came up ; and passing through a bar, or gateway, directed their head to wards the troops on Chatterton's Hill, now engaged. When the head of the column had got nearly across the lot, their front got out of sight; nor could the extent of their rear be now discovered. The sun shone bright, their arms glittered, and perhaps troops never were shewn to more advantage than these now appeared. The whole now halted; and for a few minutes, the men all sat down in the same order in which they stood, no one appearing to move out of his place. The cannonade continued brisk across the Bronx. A part of the left column, composed of British and Hessians, forded the river, and marched along under the cover of the hill, until they had gained sufficient ground to the left of the Americans ; when, by facing to the left, their column became a line, parallel with the Ameri cans. When they briskly acsended the hill, the first col umn resumed a quick march. As the troops which were advancing to the attack ascended the hill, the cannonade on the side of the British ceased ; as their own men became exposed to their fire, if continued. The fire of small-arms was now very heavy, and without any distinction of sounds. This led some American officers, who were look ing on, to observe that the British were worsted, as their cannon had ceased firing; but a few minutes evinced that Ihe Americans were giving way. They moved off the hill in a great body, neither running nor observing the best order. The British ascended the hill very slowly; and when arrived at its summit, formed and dressed their line, without the least attempt to pursue the Americans. The loss on the side of the Americans was inconsiderable; that 71 of the British was not then known. The British having got possession of this hill, it gave them a vast advantage of the American lines, almost down to the centre. 29th. — The British began to throw up some small works on the hill, of which they had got possession. The Ameri cans were drawing back; and a position was to be taken on the high strong grounds, before in the rear of a part of the army. The left of our General's division was not to move; but the remainder of his division, and all the other divisions of the army, were to fall back and form nearly east and west. About this time, Col. Lasher1, who be longed to our General's division, (and who had been left with his regiment to garrison Fort Independence, near Kingsbridge) sent an express, who passed the enemy in the night, to know what he should do, the regiment growing weak and sickly. Our General applied to the Commander in Chief, to know his pleasure, who directed that the Col onel should give notice to Col. Magaw, who commanded at Fore Washington, that he might take away the cannon, stores, &c. and that Col. Lasher, after destroying the bar racks, huts, &c. should join the army, which he soon ef fected. This day, 3 prisoners were sent in; and the Ameri cans were throwing up some strong works on the high ground's. 30th. — The British remained upon the ground they had taken. 31st. — The British continued as before, throwing up a work, &c. At night, the Americans evacuated their works .on the plain, near late Head-Quarters, setting fire to sev eral barns, and one house, which contained forage, and some stores that could not be removed. November 1st. — In the morning, the British advanced with a number of field-pieces, to the north of the road, near late Head-Quarters, (a heavy column appearing behind on the hill, ready to move forward) and commenced a furious 1 John Lasher, Col. N. Y. militia. He died, 1806. 72 cannonade on our General's division, which was nobly re turned by Capt. Lieut. Bryant and Lieut. Jackson1, of the artillery. Our General's first anxiety was for Col. Mal colm's regiment on the hill, to the east of the hollow on the left, lest the enemy should push a column into the hollow, and cut the regiment off from the division. He therefore ordered Maj. Keith2, one of his Aids, to gallop over, and order Col. Malcolm to come off immediately, with Lieut.Fen- no's artillery : But, upon a more critical view of the ground in the hollow, (at the head of which there was a stone wall, well situated to cover a body of troops to throw a heavy fire directly down it, while an oblique fire could be thrown in on both sides) he ordered Maj. Pollard,2 his other aid, to gallop after Keith, and countermand the first order, and direct the Colonel to remain at his post, and he should be supported. A strong regiment was ordered to the head of the hollow, to occupy the wall. The cannonade was brisk on both sides, through which the two Aids-de-camp passed, in going and returning. At this instant, Gen. Washing ton rode up to the hill. His first question to our General was, " How is your division?" He was answered, " They are all in order." "Have you," said the Commander in Chief, " any troops on the hill over the hollow?" He was answered, " Malcolm's regiment is there." " If you do not call them off immediately," says the General, "you may lose them, if the enemy push a column up the hollow." He was answered, that even in that case, their retreat should be made safe; that a strong regiment was posted at the head of the hollow, behind the wall; that this regiment, with the oblique fire of the division, would so check the enemy, as to allow Malcolm to make a safe retreat. The Commander in Chief concluded by saying, " Take care that you do not lose them." The artillery of the division was so well directed as to throw the British artillery-men sev- 1 Daniel Jackson was of Knox's artillery. 2 Jonathan Pollard and Israel Keith, both of Massachusetts. 73 eral times into confusion ; and finding that they could not here make any impression, drew back their pieces, the col umn not advancing. The British artillery now made a cir cuitous movement, and came down toward the American right. Here, unknown to them, were some 12 pounders; upon the discharge of which they made off with their field- pieces as fast as their horses could draw them. A shot from the American cannon at this place took off the head of a Hessian artillery-man. They also left one of the ar tillery horses dead on the field. What other loss they sus tained was not known. Of our General's division, one man only, belonging to Col. Paulding's1 regiment of New- York troops, was killed. The British made no other attempt on the Americans, while they remained at White Plains. The two armies lay looking at each other, and within long can non shot. In the night time, the British lighted up a vast number of fires, the weather growing pretty cold. These fires, some on the level ground, some at the foot of the hills, and at all distances to their brows, some of which were lofty, seemed to the eye to mix with the stars, and to be of different magnitudes. The American side, doubtless, ex hibited to them a similar appearance. On this day, our General ordered three redoubts, with a line in front, to be thrown up on the summit of his post, so constructed that the whole of them could make a defence, and support each other at the same time, if attacked. These, to the enemy, in whose view they fully were, must have appeared very formidable, although they were designed principally for defence against small-arms ; and perhaps works were never raised quicker. There were the stocks of a large corn-field at the spot : the pulling these up in hills, took up a large lump of earth with each. The roots of the stalks and earth on them, placed in the face of the works, answered the pur pose of sods, or fascines : the tops being placed inwards, as the loose earth was thrown upon them, became as so many 1 Levi Pawling, lieutenant-colonel N. Y. Levies and major of Mal- com's regiment. 74 ties to the work, which was carried up with a dispatch scarcely conceivable. The British, as they say, had meditated an attack on the Americans, which was only prevented by the wetness of the night. Be this as it may, our General had ordered his di vision, at evening roll-call, to be at their alarm-posts (which they every morning manned, whilst at the place) half an hour sooner than usual. He had then no other reason for doing this than the near position of the enemy, and the probability that they would soon make an attack . But the Commander in Chief must have made some other discov ery; for, after our General was in bed, Col. Carey1, who was one of the Aides-de-camp of General Washington, came to the door of his marquee, and calling to him, in formed him that the whole army were to be at their alarm- posts, the next morning, half an hour sooner than usual, and that he was to govern himself accordingly. Our Gen eral replied, that he had fortunately given such orders to his division, at evening roll-call. He therefore neither got up himself, nor disturbed any other of his division.2 3d. — The centinels reported that, during the preceding night, they heard the rumbling of carriages to the south eastward; and it was apprehended that the British were changing their position. 5th. — The British centinels were withdrawn from their advanced posts. It was apprehended that they meant a movement. The American army was immediately ordered under arms. At 2 o'clock, P. M. the enemy appeared, formed on Chatterton's Hill, and on several hills to the 1 Richard Carey of Virginia. 2 Stedman mistakes greatly in his history, where in Vol. II., p. 216, he asserts that the Americans " evacuated their lines on the morning of the first, and retired across the Croton River to North-Castle, set ting fire, in their retreat, to all the houses on the White Plains. The Americans did not quit their strong position at the back of White Plains until the British had retreated towards Kingsbridge as far as Dobbs' Ferry, and had there encamped, as is fully shown in these Memoirs. (Original note.) 75 westward of it. Several reconnoitring parties, who were sent out, reported that the enemy were withdrawing. About 12 o'clock, this night, a party of the Americans wan tonly set fire to the court-house, Dr. Graham's house, and several other private houses, which stood between the two armies.1 This gave great disgust to the whole American army, and drew from the Commander in Chief the follow ing paragraph, in his orders of the 6th : " It is with the utmost astonishment and abhorrence, the General is in formed, that some base and cowardly wretches have, last night, set fire to the court-house, and other buildings which the enemy left. The army may rely upon it, that they shall be brought to justice, and meet with the. pun ishment they deserve." The British were moving down towards Dobbs' Ferry. A detachment from the American army was sent out in the morning to harass their rear, but could not come up with them. 7th. — Several deserters came in from the enemy: they reported that they were moving towards New- York. The reconnoitring parties discovered them encamped near Dobbs' Ferry. They were foraging grain and hay, and driving in the cattle. Two store-ships had run up past Fort Washington. 8th. — The enemy continued encamped at and below Dobbs' Ferry. A new disposition of the American army was now to take place. The southern troops were to cross over into the Jersies. Gen. Lee, with his own, Spencer's, and Sullivan's divisions, were to remain, to secure and bring off the stores ; and were then to follow into the Jer sies. Our General was ordered to march with his division to Peek's Kill. 9th. — The division moved from near White Plains, and the same night halted at North-Castle. 10th. — In the afternoon, the division reached Peek's lFor this Major Austin of Col. Brewer's regiment was court-mar- tialled and dismissed from the service. 76 Kill. Gen. Washington arrived at the same place at about sunset. It was this day learnt, that Gen. Carleton's army in Canada, after pushing the Americans in that quarter from post to post, until they arrived at Ticonderoga, just made their appearance before that place, and then retired towards Quebec. 11th. — The Commander in Chief directed our General to attend him in taking a view of Fort Montgomery, and the other works up the river. Lord Stirling, Generals James and George Clinton, Gen. Mifflin and others were of the company. They went as far up the river as Con stitution Island, which is opposite to West Point, the lat ter of which was not then taken possession of; but the glance of the eye at it, without going on shore, evinced that this post was not to be neglected. There was a small work and a block-house on Constitution Island. Fort Mont gomery was in considerable forwardness. 12th. — The Commander in Chief directed our General to ride early in the morning with him, to reconnoitre the grounds at the Gorge of the Highlands; and, on his re turn, gave him the command of the troops and posts in the Highlands, on both sides of the river, with written instruc tions to secure and fortify them with all possible expedi tion, making a distribution of his troops to the different posts; and, at about 10 o'clock, A. M. Gen. Washington crossed over the river into the Jersies. 1.3th. — Our General made a disposition of the troops under his command, to their several destinations. Col. Huntington's and Tyler's regiments, to the west side of the Hudson, to Sidnum's Bridge on Ramapaugh1 River, to cover the passes into the Highlands, on that side : Pres- cott's, Ward's and Wyllys's regiments, of Parsons's bri gade, (as were the other two regiments) to the south en trance of the Highlands, beyond Robinson's Bridge : Gen. George Clinton's brigade, to the heights above Peek's Kill 1 Ramapo. 77 Landing : Gen. Scott's brigade, with the three regiments of Gen. Parsons's brigade: Gen. James Clinton, with the troops under his command, were at the forts up the river. The British moved down, near to Kingsbridge. On the 16th, the British made their attack on Fort Washington. General Knyphausen, with a heavy column of Hessians, advanced by Kingsbridge. They were dis covered by the Americans, from the high grounds north of Fort Washington, as the day broke ; and cannonaded from the field-pieces, placed at this advanced post. The Hes sian column divided into two; the right ascending the strong broken ground towards Spitten-Devil1 Creek; the left nearer to the road, towards the Gorge. The first ob tained the ground without much difficulty ; but the Ameri cans made a most noble opposition against the latter, and, for a considerable time, kept them from ascending the hill, making a terrible slaughter among them ; but the great su periority of the assailants, with an unabating firmness, finally prevailed: their loss was greater here than at any other place. Meanwhile, the British crossed Haarlem Creek, in two different places, charged, and finally routed the Americans on that side, and possessed themselves of the strong post on Laurel Hill, on the other side of the road from Fort Washington, and not very distant from it ; Lord Percy at the same time advancing, with the troops under his command on the island, towards the fort on that side. The Americans, now generally driven from their out works, retired to the fort, which was crowded full. A single shell, now dropping among them, must have made dreadful havock. Gen. Washington was now a spectator of this distressing scene, from the high bank at Fort Lee, on the opposite side of the Hudson; and having a wish to communicate some thing to Col. Magaw, the commanding officer at Fort 1 Spuyten Duyvil. 78 Washington, Capt. Gooch1 of Boston, a brave and daring man, offered to be the bearer of it. He ran down to the river, jumped into a small boat, pushed over the river, landjed under the bank, ran up to the fort and delivered the message — came out, ran and jumped over the broken ground, dodging the Hessians, some of whom struck at him with their pieces, and others attempted to thrust him with their bayonets — escaping through them, he got to his boat, and returned to Fort Lee. The British had sum moned Col. Magaw to surrender, and were preparing their batteries to play on the fort, when Col. Magaw thought it best to surrender the post, which he did accordingly, be tween two and three thousand men becoming prisoners. The loss in killed and wounded, on the American side was inconsiderable ; but the loss in prisoners was a serious blow indeed. The prisoners were marched to New- York; where, being crowded in prisons and sugar-houses, (many of them being militia from the Jersey flying-camp, who had been sent over to reinforce the garrison, and were unused to a soldier's life, much less to the poisonous stagnant air of a crowded prison,) they fell sick, and daily died, in a most shocking manner. It was common, on a morning, for the car-men to come and take away the bodies for burial, by loads! O ye officers of the provost! to whatever nation or people you belong, when the unfortunate of your fellow men are thus committed to your charge, clothe yourselves with humanity, and soothe distress as far as in your po wer ; for by this, you will secure a better reward than your present wages. And you who have the honour to command armies, when your victories have filled provosts and pris ons, think it not beneath you to visit the prisons, that with your own eyes you may see the state of your prisoners : for such visits, the great Captain of your Salvation hath said, shall be considered as made to Himself; while it also gives 1 Capt. John Gooch, 9th Continentals. 79 you a name among men closely allied to that of the con queror. The truly brave are always humane. Elated with the easy reduction of Fort Washington, the British determined to cross into the Jersies, and attack Gen. Washington on that side. On the 18th, Lord Cornwallis, with a strong body of the British forces, landed at Closter Landing1, on the Jersey side, above Fort Lee, the garrison of which were obliged to leave that post ; and some cannon, stores and provisions, which could not be removed, fell into the hands of the enemy. 20th. — Just at evening, an express, which our General had sent down to Gen. Washington before he had any knowledge of what had happened, returned with a most alarming account of what he had seen with his own eyes, viz. that the Americans were rapidly retreating, and the British as rapidly pursuing. The Adjutant-General (Reed) wished to write to General Lee; but he had neither pen, ink, or paper with him. The light-horseman had a rough piece of wrapping-paper in his pocket, and the Ad jutant-General had an old pencil. Bringing these two to gether, he wrote to Gen. Lee — " Dear General, we are fly ing from the British. I pray" and the pencil broke. He then told the light-horseman to carry the paper to Gen. Lee, and tell him that he was verbally ordered to add, after / pray, " you to push and join us."The light-horseman, when he arrived at our General's, was both fatigued and wet. He requested that one of his brother horsemen might proceed to Gen. Lee; but he was told that no other could discharge the duty enjoined on him by the Adjutant-Gen eral, and that Gen. Lee might wish to make many inquiries of him. He was therefore refreshed and pushed on. Gen. Lee, instead of moving his division, or any part of it, wrote our General, by the returning express, the following letter. 1 Traces of Cornwallis' road, up the steep ascent of the Palisades, are yet plainly discernible. 80 Camp, Nov. 21st, 1776. " Dear General, I have just received a recommendation, not a posi tive order, from the General, to move the corps under my command to the other side of the river. This recommenda tion was, I imagine, on the presumption that I had already moved nearer to Peek's Kill. There is no possibility of crossing over Dobbs' Ferry, or at any place lower than King's Ferry, which to us would be such an immense round, that we could never answer any purpose. I must therefore desire and request, that you will order 2000 of your corps, under a Brigadier-General, to cross the river opposite the General, and wait his further orders. As soon as we have finished a necessary job, I will replace this num ber from hence, which job will, I believe, be finished to morrow. I am, dear General, yours, (Signed) CHARLES LEE. Gen. Heath." Upon receiving this letter from Gen. Lee, (for our Gen eral did not receive the least hint from Gen. Washington, to move any part of the troops under his command, by the express who brought the order to Lee) he took up his in structions from Gen. Washington, to see if he might dare to make any detachment; upon which he wrote Gen. Lee the following answer to his letter. Peek's Kill, Nov. 21st, 1776, 10 o'clock at night. " Dear General, I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favours, of this date, the former of which I had answered early in the evening. With respect to the latter, upon having re course to my instructions, I find they are such as not to admit of moving any part of the troops from the posts as- 81 signed to me, unless it be by express orders from his Ex cellency, or to support you, in case you are attacked. My instructions, among other things, are as follow : " Your division, with such troops as are now at Forts " Montgomery, Independence and Constitution, are to be " under your command, and remain in this quarter, for the " security of the above posts, and the passes through the " Highlands, from this place, and the one on the west side " of Hudson's River. Unnecessary it is for me to say any " thing to evince the importance of securing the land and " water communication through these passes, or to prove " the indispensable necessity of using every exertion in " your power, to have such works erected for the defence " of them, as your own judgment, assisted by that of your " Brigadiers and Engineer, may show the expediency of. " You will not only keep in view the importance of secur- " ing these passes, but the necessity of doing it without " delay : not only from the probability of the enemy's at- " tempting to seize them, but from the advanced season, " which will not admit of any spade-work, after the frost " (which may daily be expected) sets in. " Lose not a moment, therefore, in choosing the grounds " on the east and west side of the river, on which your in- " tended works are to be erected. Let your men designed " for each post be speedily allotted," &c. " After instructions so positive and pressing, you will readily agree that it would be very improper, in me, to order any of the troops from posts to which they are so expressly assigned, and from business which in his Ex cellency's view is so very important. Add to this, their present disposition is such, that to collect any thing near the number you mention, would occasion as great delay, and cause many of them to march nearly as far, as if sent immediately from your quarter. I am, dear General, with esteem, Yours respectfully, Gen. Lee." (Signed) W. HEATH. 82 This did not seem to satisfy Gen. Lee, who wrote our General the following : Camp, Nov. 23d, 1776. "Sir, By your mode of reasoning, the General's instructions are so binding, that not a tittle must be broke through for the salvation of the General and the army. I have ordered Glover's brigade to march up towards Peek's Kill, to put the passage of the Highlands out of danger ; but I intend to take 2000 from your division with me into the Jersies ; so I must desire that you will have that number in readiness by the day after to-morrow, when I shall be with you early in the forenoon ; And am, Sir, Your most obedient servant, (Signed) CHARLES LEE. Maj. Gen. Heath." To which our General returned the following answer: Peek's Kill, Nov. 2tth, 1776. " Sir, Be my mode of reasoning as it may, I conceive it to be my duty to obey my instructions, especially those which are positive and poignant, and that to deviate from them even in extreme cases, would be an error; though perhaps an error on the right side. I can assure you, Sir, that I have the salvation of the General and army so much at heart, that the least recom mendation from him, to march my division, or any part of them, over the river, should have been instantly obeyed, without waiting for a positive order. My conduct must be approved or censured, as I adhere to, or depart from, my orders; and, as it is my duty, I shall strictly abide by them, until they are countermanded in such manner, as will justify a deviation from them, to him who instructed me, and to the world. 83 I shall be happy in being honoured with your company to-morrow ; And am, with respect and esteem, Your humble and obedient servant, (Signed) W. HEATH. Gen. Lee." After the foregoing was sent off, our General reflected for a moment, that as circumstances alter cases, Gen. Washington being now pressed, and the army with him but feeble, he might possibly wish for some aid from his di vision. He therefore sat down and wrote him a short let ter, stating in what manner he had disposed of the troops under his command, and wishing to know his pleasure whether any part of them should join him; enclosing copies of the letters he had received from Gen. Lee, and of his answers. The express was directed to make the umost dis patch out and returning, which he effected on the 26th, (several days before Gen. Lee got up to Peek's Kill) bringing Avith him the following letter from Secretary Harrison : The letter appears thus in the Heath Papers' Peekskill, Nov. 24, 1776. Dear General: — I some days since presented to your excellency the disposition of the troops at this post. I have not as yet received your excellency's ex press approval or disapprobation. I am endeavoring to complete the business your excellency assigned to me, as fast as possible. On the 21st instant, I received a letter from General Lee, a copy of which is enclosed. I returned him for an answer, that my division was posted at important passes and with such positive and pressing instructions from your excellency, that I dare not remove them without your ex cellency's express orders; which was also the opinion of my brigadier- generals, that it would be extremely hazardous. The last evening I received another letter from him, which I also enclose. It needs no comment. I still conceive myself strictly bound by your excellency's instructions, and that the importance of this post is enhanced by the enemy's having got possession of Fort Lee and thereby secured to themselves the entire navigation Hudson's River up to this place. Should the number of troops mentioned by Gen. Lee be drawn from this post, there would not be more than four hundred men, exclusive of the garrisons of the forts, left on this side of the river. I consider my- seif as accountable for the post, being so expressly instructed by your excellency and shall most strictly adhere to them until countermanded 84 Newark, Nov. 25th, 1776. " Dear General, I am directed by his Excellency to acknowledge his receipt of your letter of yesterday, and to inform you, the disposition of the troops, mentioned in your former letter, has his approbation. " In respect to the troops intended to come to this quar ter, his Excellency never meant that they should be from your division. He has wrote Gen. Lee, since, so fully and explicitly upon the subject, that any misapprehensions he may have been under at first, must now be done away. He will most probably have reached Peek's Kill before now, with his division, and be pushing to join us. No new event has taken place. I am, Sir, very respectfully, Your most obedient servant, (Signed) R. H. HARRISON. Maj. Gen. Heath. 21st. — A heavy cannonade was heard towards Amboy. 22d. — Col. Tupper, who was down near Tappan, got up to King's Ferry. He brought off the two 12 pounders by your excellency's orders, or a signification of your excellency's pleasure that I am to obey such orders as I shall receive from some other my senior officer; which alone, I think, can warrant a departure from my instructions. I wish also to know your excellency's pleasure as soon as agreeable to you, as it may prevent altercation and confus ion. I beg leave also to acquaint your excellency that the time to which the garrisons of Fort Montgomery and Constitution are engaged expires (except as to three hundred and twenty-eight privates) in six days, as does that of General Scott's whole brigade and Colonel Tash's regiment. I cannot conclude without observing that General Lee, in his first letter to me, mentions that he has received a recom mendation, not a positive order, to move the corps under his command to the other side of the river; and yet, although he did not think it ob ligatory on himself, in his second letter he positively orders me to hold two thousand of my division in readiness to march with him across the river, directly contrary to my instructions, extracts of which I had furnished him with. I have the honour to be, with great respect, your excellency's most humble servant, W. HEATH. His Excellency, General Washington. 85 which were at Dobbs' Ferry, and a quantity of provisions. The same evening, our General ordered the Washington galley to take station at King's Ferry. 24th. — Our General gave orders for Clinton's and Scott's brigades to hold themselves in readiness to march to the Jersey side. 25th. — Scott's brigade was ordered over to Haverstraw, and Col. Tyler's regiment, then at Ramapo River, to march down to Tappan, to secure and bring off the pro visions which were at that place. 27th. — Capt. Treadwell1, of the artillery, with a three- The following remarkable letter does not appear to be referred to in the Memoirs. — (ftfass. Hist. Sec'y.) Camp, Phillipsburg, Nov. 26, 1776. Sir: — I perceive that you have formed an opinion to yourself that, should General Washington remove to the Straits of Magellan, the instruc tions he left with you upon a particular occasion have to all intents and purposes invested you with a command separate from, and inde pendent of, any other superior; that General Heath and General Lee are merely two major-generals, who perhaps ought to hold a friendly intercourse with each other, and, when, their humour or fancied in terest prompts, may afford mutual assistance; but that General Heath is by no means to consider himself obliged to obey any orders of the second in command. This idea of yours, Sir, may not only be prejudi cial to yourself but to the public. I could wish, Sir, before things go any further, you would correct the notion. I enjoined you to send two thousand men over the river, and informed you that I would replace them with an equal number. This was the only mode in my power of complying with the intuitions of the general, but it seems your danger was so immense and your instructions so positive, that, instead of tak ing a step which both duty and common sense dictated, you are so kind as to advise me to send the troops from hence; the two days' march to Peekskill, and the want of wagons, with the badness of the roads, making no sort of difference. But I must inform you, Sir, that we could not have been (such are our circumstances) in less than five days at Peekskill; and that five days may turn the fate of an empire. If any misfortune should happen from this refusal, you must answer for it. If any misfortune had happened to your post by the detachment of those two thousand men from your corps, the blame would have fallen upon me. But enough on this subject. I shall therefore conclude, that the Commander-in-Chief is now separate from us; that I, of course, com mand on this side of the water; that, for the future, I will and must be obeyed, I am, Sir, your most obedient servant, To Major-General Heath, Peekskill. CHARLES LEE. 'William Treadwell (of Massachusetts) of Knox's artillery (died April, 1795). 86 pounder, was ordered to move over the river, and join Gen. Scott's brigade. It was learnt that many of the inhabi tants of New-Jersey, especially in the neighborhood of Hackensack, were swearing allegiance to King George, taking letters of protection, &c. 28th. — Mr. Livingston came from Congress, to advise with our General on measures to obstruct the river. The same day, Capt. Harrod brought off from Tappan a con siderable quantity of pearl-ash, bees-wax, oil, &c. 29th. — Two of the regiments of Gen. Clinton's brigade were ordered to move to Fort Constitution, in order to at tempt the forming of obstructions in the river near Poli- pins1 Island. 30th. — Just before dinner, Gen. Sullivan arrived at our General's quarters; and in the afternoon Gen. Lee ar rived. He called at the door; when our General waiting upon him, requested him to alight, he asked if he could have a cup of tea, and was answered that he should have a good one. Upon coming into the house, before he sat down, he wished to speak in private, which being instantly granted, he told our General that, in a military view, or, to use his own words exactly, " In point of law, you are right ; but in point of policy, I think you are wrong. I am going into the Jersies for the salvation of America; I wish to take with me a larger force than I now have, and request you to order 2000 of your men to march with me." Our General answered, that he could not spare that number. He was then asked to order 1000 ; to which he replied, that the business might as well be brought to a point at once — that not a single man should march from the post by his order. Gen. Lee replied, that he would then order them himself. He was answered that there was a wide differ ence between the two ; that Gen. Lee was acknowledged by our General to be his senior ; but, as he had received posi tive written instructions from him who was superior to l.Pollopel's Ss the modern spelling. 87 both, he would not himself break those orders. If Gen. Lee was disposed to counteract them, its being done by him could not be imputed to any other person; and that he knew the Commander in Chief did not intend any of the troops should be removed from that post — having ex pressed it not only in his instructions, but also in a letter just received from him. On the letter being shewn to Gen. Lee, he observed, "The Commander in Chief is now at a distance and does not know what is necessary here so well as I do" — asked if he might be favoured with the return- book of the division. Major Huntington, the Deputy- Ad jutant General, was directed to hand it. Gen. Lee ran his eye over it, and said, "I will take Prescott's and Wyllys's regiments" and turning to Major Huntington,1 said,"You will order those two regiments to march early to-morrow morning to join me." Our General, turning to the Major, said, " Issue such orders at your peril ! " and then turning to Gen. Lee addressed him : " Sir, if you come to this post, and mean to issue orders here, which will break those posi tive ones which I have received, I pray you to do it com pletely yourself, and through your own Deputy Adjutant- General, who is present, and not draw me, or any of my family, in as partners in the guilt." Gen. Lee replied, " It is right. Col. Scammell, do you issue the order;" which he did, and Huntington communicated it to the regiments, who were now posted at the gorge of the mountains, near Robinson's Bridge, afterwards called the Continental Village. Matters caried thus far, our General turned to Gen. Lee again : " Sir, I have one more request to make, and that is, that you will be pleased to give me a certificate, that you exercise command at this post, and do order from it Prescott's and Wyllys's regiments." Lee replied, " I do not know that I will comply with your request." Gen. Clinton, who was present, observed, " Gen. Lee, you can- 1 Ebenezer Huntington, afterward brigadier-general. (Died June 17, 1834.) 88 not refuse a request so reasonable." Upon which Gen. Lee wrote as follows : Peek's Kill, Dec. 1st, 1776. "For the satisfaction of Gen. Heath, and at his re quest, I do certify, that I am commanding officer, at this present writing, in this post, and that I have, in that ca pacity, ordered Prescott's and Wyllys's regiments to march. (Signed) CHARLES LEE, Maj. Gen." Gen. Lee, stepping out on the piazza, observed to an of ficer, " Gen. Heath is right." Early the next morning, the regiments moved from their cantonment towards Peek's Kill; but before they had reached it, Gen. Lee, now ready to pass into the Jersies, rode up to our General's door, and calling him, observed, "Upon further consideration, I have concluded not take the two regiments with me — you may order them to return to their former post." This conduct of General Lee's appeared not a little extraordi nary, and one is almost at a loss to account for it. He had been a soldier from his youth, had a perfect knowledge of service in all its branches, but was rather obstinate in his temper, and could scarcely brook being crossed in anything in the line of his profession. Gen. Lee took with him into the Jersies some as good troops as any in the service; but many of them were so destitute of shoes, that the blood left on the rugged frozen ground, in many places, marked the route they had taken; and a considerable number, unable to march, were left at Peek's Kill. The time of service for which Gen. Scott's brigade was engaged to serve, expired, when the whole, except about 50, went home, notwith standing the generous encouragement offered them by their State, (New- York) if they would continue one month longer. 2d and 3d. — Gen. Lee's troops were passing the ferry. Gen. Carleton having returned into Canada, a number of 89 Gen. Gates's regiments were now moving to reinforce Gen. Washington — their van as far as Morristown — the enemy as far as Brunswick. 6th. — Intelligence was received, that on the 4th, about sunset, 70 sail of ships of war and transports passed 'in the Sound towards New England. Our General immedi ately sent expresses to General Washington, Gov. Trum bull, Mr. Bowdoin1, at Boston, the Convention of New- York, &c. 7th. — Three regiments, viz. Greaton's, Bond's, and Por ter's2, arrived off the landing from Albany, on their way to Gen. Washington. Matters now looked serious in Jersey. The British were extending themselves in all directions, and the inhabitants obliged to become passive, if not worse. Gen. Gates had ordered the troops, moving from the north ward, to rendezvous at Goshen. 8th. — Our General wrote Gen. Lee, that the troops were moving on from the northward, and as Gen. Gates had not yet overtaken them, some of the commanding-officers ap peared to wish for orders how to proceed. Gen. Washing ton, it was said, was as far as Trenton — Lee, the preceding night, as far as Pompton. A flag schooner came up from New- York, to obtain leave for some families to go in. A- Parson Inglish3 was on board. Orders were given to treat the flag with politeness, and at the same time with proper precaution; and the business was laid before the Conven tion of the State. The same day, Gen. Clinton, with two British and two Hessian brigades, with a squadron of ships under the com mand of Sir Peter Parker, took possession of Rhode Is land, without the loss of a man ;the Americans quitting the island without making any opposition. Rhode Island was 1 James Bowdoin (17. 1790) , later Governor of Massachusetts. 2 Probably Col. Elisha Porter of Massachusetts. 3 Rev. Dr. Charles Inglis, rector of Trinity Church, N. Y., and an undaunted Tory. His wife- and Mrs. Beverly Robinson were the only women attainted of treason during the Revolution. 90 a great acquisition to the British, for quarters, forage, and a safe harbour; but lessened their ability for other more important operations in the field. On the evening of the 9th, our General received orders from the Commander in Chief, to move over the Hudson, with Parsons's brigade, and to move on so as to give pro tection to the country, and vigour to the cause in Jersey. 10th. — A little after noon, Parsons's brigade marched down to King's Ferry; the greatest alertness having been discovered by both officers and men on the occasion. 11th. — About eleven o'clock, A. M. our General left Peek's Kill, and proceeded for the Jersies; on crossing King's Ferry, gave orders for the flag to be detained from returning until further orders. The troops crossed the ferry, and marched as far as Col. Hay's1 at Haverstraw. Huntington's and Tyler's regiments were ordered to ad vance from Ramapo Bridge to Paramus. Our General received a letter from Gen. Lee, in answer to the one he wrote on the 8th from Peek's Kill, as follows : Chatham, Dec. 9th, 1776. " Dear General, I am very much obliged to you for your welcome tid ings; and have only to beg that you will direct the regi ments you speak of, to march without loss of time to Mor ristown. I sent an express to you last night, from the General, ordering your division over the river, which I con fess, for my own part, I am heartily sorry for; as I think we shall be strong enough without you, and New-England, with your district, will be too bare of troops. I am in hopes here to re-conqu;er (if I may so express myself) the Jersies. It was really in the hands of the enemy before my arrival. Adieu, dear Sir, Maj. Gen. Heath." (Signed) CHARLES LEE. 1 Col. A. Hawkes Hay was commander of the Haverstraw militia regiment, and an active patriot. A letter from General John Morin Scott describes him as "a gentleman uncommonly spirited in the pub lick cause." 91 The foregoing letter appears very different from the for mer ones. 12th. — Early in the morning, the troops took up their line of march from Haverstraw, and before sun-set reached Tappan. 13th. — Sent out a reconnoitring party towards Hacken sack, to get intelligence, &c. This day Gen. Lee was taken prisoner, near Chatham, by a party of light-horse, com manded by Col. Harcourt.1 Lee took quarters at a small distance from his troops : an inhabitant gave notice of it to Col. Harcourt, who was out reconnoitring near that neighborhood, and who had the address to take and carry him off. 14th. — Our General held up every appearance of moving to Paramus, and sent off his baggage under escort to that place; and between 11 and 12 o'clock, marched briskly for Hackensack, having sent orders for Huntington's and Ty ler's regiments to move from Paramus at the same time. Buskirk's2 regiment was at Hackensack Bridge the pre ceding day, where they did duty, and it was expected they were still at the same place. To surprise and take them was the object; but it was found that Buskirk's men had moved the preceding day to Bergen, in order to draw new arms. The town was completely surprised, not having an idea that any but British troops were near them. One British soldier and 20 or 30 of their adherents, were taken, a number of arms, &c. and at the wharf, several vessels loaded with hay, &c. on the point of sailing for New- York. A brig had come to sail in the morning, and run some dis tance down the river, and came to anchor. An officer with a party was sent down to take her, and bring her up; but the wind was so strong ahead that it could not be effected. The officer was then directed to destroy the vessel, as she 1 Harcourt's regiment was the 16th Light Dragoons. Lee was con sidered so important a capture that Harcourt was promoted to the colonelcy and received other and substantial marks of the royal favor. 2 Buskirk was a New York Tory of the rank of lieutenant-colonel. 92 had a large quantity of forage on board, destined for New- York; but it was said, there were some valuable articles on board, which might be taken out and brought up in the boats. The orders were varied accordingly, with direc tions, that in case the enemy advanced before the business was completed, to set the brig on fire. The boats brought up one load ; but on returning to the brig, they discovered a body of the enemy advancing, when the brig was aban doned without being set on fire. The enemy immediately took possession of her. Among the articles taken out, was a large chest of plate. This was conveyed to Peek's Kill, and delivered to the Deputy Quarter-Master-General; and when the British afterwards destroyed the public stores at that place, the chest of plate was removed by the Quarter-Master into Connecticut; where afterwards Gen. Parsons, in behalf of the officers and soldiers of the divis ion, filed a libel in the Maritime Court, and the officer who boarded the vessel filed one in his own behalf. On trial, the Court adjudged the plate to the latter, although he boarded the vessel in obedience to express orders. About 100 barrels of flour, which had been abandoned by the Americans when they retreated before Lord Cornwallis, were recovered and sent off ; and about 100 arms were also secured, with a quantity of rum, gin, &c. In the evening, as two or three American officers were walking along the street, a gentleman, who was an inhabitant, came up to them, and expressed his joy on the arrival of the troops, (supposing they were British.) The officers immediately conducted him to our General, and on entering the room informed him, that they came to introduce a friend who had joined them in the street, and who was able to give some important information. Our General expressed a high satisfaction, and wished to know what information he could give. He replied, that he heard there was a large body of rebels collecting up above them. He was asked if in case these rebels should advance, any assistance could be afforded by the people of the town, and whether they 93 could be depended upon? He answered there were a con siderable number, and that they might be depended upon. He was asked, whether there was not a number in the town who were in favour of the rebels? He answered, that there was ; but that they had seized and sent off the principal ones among them, and that now the others dared not shew themselves. The joke was thus going on, when Col. Prescott, who stood near him, holding his hat in his hand, in which there was a red cockade, (at that time a mark of the distinction of rank) the gentleman fixed his eye upon it, and. his countenance immediately fell. He was then told that those whom he termed rebels were now in possession of the place, and had now received his informa tion. He was ordered into custody. 15th. — All the wagons in the vicinity were collected, and the flour and other stores moved off to Paramus. Re connoitring parties were sent out to a distance, to observe the motions of the enemy. 16th. — The effects were generally removed, and about noon the reconnoitring parties reported that the enemy were advancing on both sides of the place. They were soon after discovered by the guard at Acquackanuck Bridge. A little before sun-set, the troops left the town. A strong rear-guard was ordered to remain on the high ground back of the town, until after dark, to light up a number of fires, and then to move on after the troops. Just before the di vision left the town, Gen. George Clinton, attended by some light-horse, joined the division. 17th. — Reconnoitring parties were sent out on all the roads. 1.8th. — Intelligence, was received, that some of the Jersey militia had had a skirmish with a body of British troops under Gen. Leslie, near Springfield. Both parties retired. Of the militia, several were killed and wounded. The Contention of New- York, greatly alarmed at the re moval of our General with the continental troops from the important passes of the Highlands, sent a request to 94 Gen. Washington, desiring that they might be ordered back again. To insure dispatch, they offered the express extra pay. The Commander in Chief was pleased to grant their request, and ordered our General to return to Peek's Kill, and re-occupy his former positions. Our General, having received certain information that Buskirk's regiment was at or near Bergen Woods, it was determined to strike them. For this purpose, on the even ing of the 19th about 8 o'clock, Gen. Parsons, with 250 continental troops, and Gen. Clinton, with a like number of the militia of New- York, marched from Paramus church, and a covering party of 300 men was ordered to Tappan. About 1 o'clock the next morning the detachment reached Bergen, and completely surprised the enemy's guard, making 22 men prisoners. The regiment was alarmed, and a pretty brisk skirmish ensued. The enemy were collecting, and it was judged best for the detachment to come off, having been so far victorious. 20th. — About 1 o'clock, P. M. the detachment returned to Paramus, having, in the short interval of time, marched (out and returning) upwards of 40 miles. They brought back with them, besides their prisoners, 16 new fire-locks, 6 horses, and one wagon ; having sustained the loss of one man. The enemy were supposed to have had several killed. 21st. — Orders were given for the troops to be ready to march early the next morning. The gentleman who was taken into custody at Hackensack, chagrined almost to death, had been spending his time, like April, in weeping and lowering ; and much intercession having been made for his release, our General told him that in case he would faithfully perform a piece of secret service allotted to him, he should be released. This he performed with punctu ality, and consequently was set at liberty. 22d— The troops marched from Paramus round by the 95 side of Kakaat1, to Clark's-Town, which they reached about sun-set. 23d. — The troops took up their line of march, crossed the Hudson, and arrived at Peek's Kill. 24th. — Gave permission for the flag to return to New- York, having on board the families of Mr. Inglis, Moore, &c. 25th. — It was learnt that a body of Hessian troops had not long before moved to the upper end of York Island. The militia of the State of New- York were this day begin ning to come in. 26th. — A severe snow-storm. Some of the militia from Massachusetts had reached Danbury. 29th. — Intelligence was received from Providence, that a most valuable prize, taken by the ship Alfred, had ar rived safe at New Bedford, in Massachusetts. 30th. — Col. Chester, of Connecticut, arrived at Peek's Kill, from Gen. Washington's camp, with the agreeable news, that on the preceding Thursday morning, being the 26th, Gen. Washington, at the head of about 3000 men, crossed the Delaware, and attacked the enemy at Trenton, being about 1600 Hessians; and in about 35 minutes en tirely defeated them. One Colonel, 2 Lieutenant-Colonels, 3 Majors, 4 Captains, 8 Lieutenants, 12 Ensigns, 1 Judge Advocate, 2 Surgeon's Mates, 92 Sergeants, 20 Drummers, 9 Musicians, 25 Officers' servants, and 740 rank and file were taken prisoners, besides the killed and wounded. Six pieces of brass cannon, 12 drums, 4 standards, 1200 small- arms, 6 wagons, a number of swords, caps, &c. were the trophies of victory. The same day, Colonel Sparhawk's1 regiment of militia arrived from Massachusetts. 31st. — Information was given, that a company of 60 dis- 1 Kakaat is now Ramapo. It and Clarkstown are in Rockland County, N. Y. 2 Nathan Sparhawk. 96 [1776 affected inhabitants were on their way to join the enemy. Parties were sent out to intercept them. 1777. January 1st. — By a letter from Gen. Washing ton, it appeared that the enemy were retreating towards Amboy. Generals Mifflin and Ewing, and Col. Cadwalla der had crossed the Delaware, and Gen. Washington was about to follow them, and pursue the enemy. 2d. — Several infamous disaffected persons were taken and sent in. The same day, Gen. Washington being at Trenton, Gen. Howe advanced to attack him ; a cannonade ensued : Gen. Washington retired to the other side of the Mill Creek; and, as soon as it was dark, ordering a great number of fires to be lighted up, to deceive the enemy, stole a march, and at 9 o'clock next morning attacked three regi ments of the enemy who were posted at Princeton, routed them, driving them from two small redoubts. The enemy lost, in killed, wounded and taken prisoners about 500. The American loss was inconsiderable, except in the brave Gen. Mercer, of Virginia, who fell in this action, greatly regret ted. In this manoeuvre and action Gen. Washington ex hibited the most consummate generalship, and the British were struck with consternation. Ambuscade, surprise and stratagem are said to constitute the sublime part of the art of war, and that he who possesses the greatest resource in these, will eventually pluck the laurel from the brow of his opponent. The stratagems of war are almost infinite, but all have the same object, namely, to deceive — to hold up an appearance of something which is not intended, while under this mask some important object is secured; and be a General never so brave, if he be unskilled in the arts and stratagems of war, he is really to be pitied ; for his bravery will but serve to lead him into those wily snares which are laid for him. 3d. — Thirty-seven recruits going to Rogers,1 taken the preceding night, were brought in ; and our General ordered 1 Major Robert Rogers (see p. 74). 1777] 97 out Capt. Graham1 at 12 o'clock at night, to intercept an other gang. 4th. — G en. Lincoln arrived from Massachusetts ; he had come on with a body of militia. 5th. — It was learnt that on the 1st inst. Gen. Putnam took a large quantity of baggage, provisions, &c. at Bor dentown ; and on the 3d, Gen. Washington's army came up with the rear of the enemy, at or near Rocky Hill, when a brisk action ensued, and the enemy were defeated, with the loss of between 50 and 60 killed, and upwards of 100 taken prisoners, together with 6 pieces of cannon, and all their baggage : the Americans had 6 men killed. The same day Col. Sparhawk's regiment of militia, from Massachusetts, with two field-pieces, marched for King's Ferry, on their way to the Jersies. 7th. — Our General received the following letter from Gen. Washington: Pltjckemin, Jan. 5th, 1777. " Sir, We have made a successful attack upon Princeton. General Howe advanced upon Trenton; we evacuated the town, and lay at the other side of the Mill Creek until dark; then stole a march, and attacked Princeton about 9 o'clock in the morning. There were three regiments quar tered there. The killed, wounded, and prisoners taken, amounted to about 500. The enemy are in great consterna tion; and as the present affords us a favourable opportu nity to drive them out of the Jersies, it has been deter mined in Council, that you should move down towards New- York with a considerable force, as if you had a design upon the city; that being an object of great importance, the enemy will be reduced to the necessity of withdrawing a considerable part of their force from the Jersies, if not the whole to secure the city. I shall draw the force on this 1 Probably Capt. John Graham, 1st New York (Died May 7, 1832). 98 side the North River together at Morristown, where I shall watch the motions of the enemy, and avail myself of every circumstance. You will retain 4000 of the militia coming on from the New-England Governments for the expedition. You will act with great precaution, but avail yourself of every favourable opportunity of attacking the enemy, when you can do it to advantage. Gen. Lincoln must cross the North River, and come on with the remainder of the militia to Morristown. Leave a sufficient guard at the Highlands. You will also have as many boats collected together, or in such a manner as you may always avail yourself of them, if it should be found expedient for your troops or any part of them to cross the North River, at Dobbs' Ferry, or any other of the landings. I am, &c. (Signed) GEO. WASHINGTON. Gen. Heath." Preparations for the before mentioned movement were immediately put in train. The militia and volunteers were coming in. 8th. — Gen. Parsons went down to King-street. 9th. — The remainder of Col. Sparhawk's and Col. Whit ney's regiments passed over the river, to join Gen. Wash ington. 10th. — Col. Frost's regiment marched to North Castle, and Gen. Scott's militia to White Plains. 11th. — A number of British officers, taken at Princeton, passed Peek's Kill, on their way to Connecticut. The same day it was learnt, that on the 8th, Gen. Maxwell, with the Jersey militia, and some continental troops, routed the enemy at Elizabeth-Town, where he took 50 Highlanders, a schooner loaded with baggage, and fell in with a party of 30 Waldeckers, whom he also took prisoners. 12th. — Gen. Moulton1 from Massachusetts, and Col. 1 Johnson Moulton, Lieut.-Col. 7th Qontinentals. 99 Gilman1 from New Hampshire, came to camp. A number of British prisoners, taken in the Jersies, passed Peek's Kill, on their way to Connecticut. 13th. — Our General moved to the southward, and reached North-Castle just before sun-set, where he found part of four regiments had arrived, and Gen. Scott's militia of New- York had moved down to Wright's Mills. 14th. — Our General moved to King-street to Mr. Clap's — about 3000 militia had arrived, and Gen. Lin coln's division marched to Tarrytown on this day. The Commander in Chief in another letter had intimated that Gen. Lincoln, instead of moving on to join him, should stay on the east side of the Hudson, and join in the expedi tion. 15th. — The Connecticut volunteers marched from King- street to New Rochelle, and Gen. Scott's brigade to Stephen Ward's. Plenty of provisions were arriving. A deserter came in from the enemy, and gave an account of their situation and numbers. 17th. — At night the three divisions began to move to wards Kingsbridge: Gen. Lincoln's from Tarrytown, on the Albany road; Generals Wooster and Parsons's from New Rochelle and East-Chester, and Gen. Scott's ih the centre from below White Plains. The several distances and rate of marching were so well calculated, that, on the 18th, just before sunrise, the three divisions, although so far apart, arrived at the out-posts of the enemy almost at the same i nstant. Gen. Lincoln's on the heights above Col. Van Cortland's; Wooster's at Williams's2; and Scott's on the back of Valentine's. Our General, who moved with the centre division, knew that Valentine's house was the 1 This may have been either David Gilman, who was a colonel of militia, 1776-77, or Nicholas (1776-80). 2 Williams' Bridge, a part of the town of West Chester, now within the Ne-w York City limits. The name is from a bridge there over the Bronx River. The Van Courtlandt house is still standing, east of Yonkers, in Van Courtlandt Park. 100 quarters of one of the guards ; he did not know but it might be defended : as he approached it, he ordered Capt. Lieut. Bryant to advance a field-piece to the advance-guard, and if there was any opposition from the house, to cannonade it immediately. He then ordered 250 men from the head of the column (as it was moving on) to incline to the right, and by a double step to push into the hollow be tween the house and the fort, to cut off the guard who were at the house, in case they should run towards the latter. At this instant, two light-horsemen who had been sent out by the enemv as the day broke to reconnoitre the vicinity, came unexpectedly at the descent of a hill, plump upon the head of Wooster's column. They attempted to turn about, but before it could be fully effected, a field-piece was discharged at them ; one of them was pitched from his horse and taken prisoner, the other galloped back to the fort, holloing as he passed, " The rebels ! The rebels ! " This set all the outguards and pickets running to the fort, leav ing in some places their arms, blankets, tools, provisions, &c. behind them. Those who fled from Valentine's and the Negro Fort were fired at as they ran, but none were killed : one, who could not run so fast as the rest, was taken pris oner. Ten muskets were taken at Valentine's house. The guard above Van Cortland's was as completely surprised as the others, where Gen. Lincoln took about 40 arms, some blankets, &c. &c. The left and centre divisions moved into the hollow, between Valentine's house and the fort, from whence our General immediately sent a summons to the commanding officer of the fort to surrender. The Commandant of the fort, and a considerable part of the gar rison, being Hessians, the summons held out to these gen erous terms. The answer, which was verbal, was a refusal to surrender. A detachment with two field-pieces was ordered to move to the south of the fort, to a hill above Haarlem Creek, not far from the New Bridge. When the detachment arrived at this place, a battalion of Hessians appeared drawn up on the side of the hill just within Kings- 101 bridge, and back of Hyatt's tavern. Our General ordered the artillery to cannonade them immediately. The first shot just cleared the right of the battalion, nearly a pla toon settling down as the shot passed them, which entered the bank close behind them. The second shot passed about the centre of the battalion, when to the amount of a grand division settled down, which was an evidence that they would not stand much longer. One of the pieces was or dered to be drawn lower down the hill ; on which the bat talion quitted their ground, and marched off as fast as they could without running, to get behind the redoubt and hill at the bridge, receiving one shot more as they were turning round the point. It was not suspected that the enemy had any cannon in the redoubt within the bridge, but they now began to cannonade the artillery-men who had descended the hill, who had to draw up their piece as fast as possible, which they effected without any loss, but received three or four shot quite among them, before they could reach the top of the hill. This success at the out-posts flew through the country, and was soon magnified to a reduction of the fort, and cap ture of the garrison. It reached Gen. Washington long be fore the official account, and he had communicated the re port to Congress ; hence a double disappointment, when the true state of facts was received. 19th. — The enemy cannonaded from the fort, and killed one American, as the guards were relieving at the Negro Fort. It was determined to make an attempt to cut off the battalion within Kingsbridge, early the next morning, by passing a strong detachment over Spuyten Duyvil Creek on the ice, which, however, was not now very strong, but the weather was. cold. One thousand were detached for the purpose ; but the weather having grown warm in the night, the ice was judged, by the unanimous opinion of all the General Officers on the ground, to be too hazardous on the morning of the 20th to venture the attempt. On this day there was a cannonade on both sides, and the enemy on the 102 island side were thrown into much confusion. Our Gen eral observing that when the enemy within the island were cannonaded across Haarlem Creek, they sheltered them selves behind the little hill near the bridge, next to Spuy ten Duyvil Creek, on this afternoon he rode round on to Tippit's Hill1, which was in its rear, and found that a field- piece drawn up on that side would leave the enemy no hid ing-place. 21st. — A cannonade on both sides. In the afternoon a field-piece was hauled up to Tippit's Hill, and the enemy were cannonaded both in front and rear : they were thrown into the utmost confusion: some secured themselves in their redoubt, others under the banks : some lay flat on the ground, and some betook themselves to the cellars ; so that in a short time there was no object for the gunners. The weather had now grown very moderate. 22d. — There was a pretty smart skirmish with the enemy near the fore. This day our General ordered a number ur chandeliers,2 fascines, &c. to be made ; and having nothing but light field-pieces with him, in order to keep up an ap pearance of a serious design on the fort, he sent to North- Castle, where was a field brass 24 pounder and some how itzers, to bring forward the former and one of the latter. 23d. — A smart skirmish took place just before dusk, in the broken ground near the south side of the fort; an En sign and one man belonging to the New- York militia were killed, and five wounded ; the loss of the enemy unknown, as it was close under the fort. 24th.— Excessive stormy. Gen. Lincoln's division, who were in huts in the woods, back of Col. Van Cort land's, were obliged to quit their ground, and move back into the houses where they could find them; some of them as far as Dobbs' Ferry; with the loss of a great many car- 1 Tibbetts' Hill and brook are not far from Spuyten Duyvil. 2 Chandelier: a wooden frame, filled with fascines, to form a tra verse in sapping.— Farrow's Military Encyclopedia. 103 tridges, from the badness of the boxes. The fall of rain was so great as to cause a great fresh in the Bronx, the water running over the bridge by Williams's. 25th. — Early in the morning, the enemy made a sally to wards Delancey's1 Mills, where they surprised and routed the guard, wounding several, but not killing or taking any of them; and a regiment near that place quitted their quarters. Emboldened by this success, about 10 o'clock, A. M. they made a powerful sally towards Valentine's, in stantly driving the guards and| pickets from the Negro Fort and Valentine's house; pushing on with great impet uosity, keeping up a brisk fire, the balls passing at Wil liams's house sufficiently strong to do execution. The re treating guards threw themselves into the old redoubt on the north side of the road, to the west of the bridge; on which the enemy lined a strong stone wall, a few rods dis tant to the southwest. Two regiments of the militia be ing at this instant formed in the road near Williams's, and the horses in the limbers of the field-pieces, our General ordered Capt. Bryant to ford over the bridge with his piece, and the militia to follow and cover the artillery. When Capt. Bryant had ascended almost to the top of the hill, to prevent his horses being shot he unlimbered, and the men took the drag-ropes ; but the ascent of the hill was such that they were obliged to drag the piece almost with in pistol-shot, before the ground would admit the piece to be so depressed as to bear on the enemy. The moment this was effected, a round shot opened a breach in the wall, four or five feet wide ; a second shot in less than a minute opened another, when the enemy fled back to the fort with the greatest precipitation. Of the Americans, two were killed and a number wounded. 27th. — The brass 24-pounder and howitzer were brought up, and ordered to open upon the fort; on the third dis charge of the former, she sprang her carriage; nor were 1 De Lancey's Mills were in what is now Bronx Park, in the former town of West Farms, now a part of New York City. 104 there any live shells for the howitzer, there being none at North-Castle; nor was a regular cannonade pr bombard ment of the fort ever contemplated. Every attempt was now made, by feint and otherwise, to draw the enemy out of the fort. A detachment was sent down to Morrisania, to light up a great number of fires in the night, to induce the enemy to suppose that a body of Americans were col lecting at that place, with a design fo cross on to New- York Island, at or near Haarlem; and to heighten this, several large boats were sent for, and brought forward on carriages. The British guard on Montresor's Island were so much alarmed at this as to set the buildings on fire, and flee to New- York. A brigade of the British were said to have moved! towards Fort Washington; and orders had been sent to Rhode Island, for a detachment to be sent from thence. 29th. — There was the appearance of a severe snow storm coming on, when all the General Officers on the ground, viz. besides our General, Lincoln, Wooster, Scott and Ten Broeck, were unanimously of the opinion that the troops ought to move back before the storm came on, to places where they could be covered from the inclemency of the weather, as there was no artillery to batter the fort. And from first to last they were unanimously opposed to any idea of an assault or storm of the fort with the militia, the principal object being now to secure and bring off or destroy the forage, which could be as well done where the troops could have covering, as to harass them in the open fields by multiplying guards, or their being constantly exposed in the scattered houses to be surprised and cut off. For these several reasons, the troops were ordered as soon as it grew dark to move back, Gen. Lincoln's division to Dobbs' Ferry and Tarrytown, Gen. Wooster' s to New Rochelle, and Gen. Scott's to White Plains; the guards to remain at their posts and alert, until the troops were all moved off, and then to form rear guards on the several roads, following the troops to whom they respectively be- 105 longed; all of which was performed in good order, in a very heavy fall of snow. 30th. — The storm cleared up, when 15 ships, 1 brig, 2 schooners, and 2 sloops came to, between Heart1 and City Islands; they were from the eastward, and were supposed to have troops on board. The troops on this expedition, as it was called, were in a very hazardous situation, and had continued in it from the morning of the 18th, to the evening of the 29th ; they were entirely a body of militia, except a few artillery-men. So apprehensive of this being a critical situation was the Commander in Chief, in the year 1780, when Gen. Sir. Henry Clinton menaced the French army at Rhode Island, and had embarked his troops on board transports for the purpose of proceeding to that place, and Gen. Washington had determined to move down towards Kingsbridge to induce Sir Henry to give up his design by menacing New-York, our General being then at Rhode Is land with the French army, Gen. Washington wrote him on the 31st of July from Robinson's House in the High lands — among other things, " You know the critical situ ation in which this army will be in a position below." This was undoubtedly a very just observation ; but if the Com mander in Chief, with the whole American army in 1780, well armed and highly disciplined, should so justly judge at the distance of 30 miles from the spot, what shall we say of those brave militia men who continued in the position itself, for more than ten days in the midst of winter? Whenever an enterprise is to be attempted in the teeth of an enemy, it should be a dash and away. 31st. — A cordon of troops was ordered to be formed, to extend from Dobbs' Ferry to Mamaroneck. February 1st. — Foraging now being the object, a large number of teams were sent out towards Mamaroneck, and upwards of 80 loads of forage were brought off. Twelve 1 Hart's Island is just below City Island in Long Island Sound. 106 more ships, 4 of which were of 40 guns, came down the Sound the preceding day. 2d. — Col. Humphries1, of New- York, arrived with a regi ment of militia from Albany county, to continue in service six weeks. 3d. — There was another grand forage. 6th. — A strong detachment under the command of Col. Enos2 was sent toward Fort Independence, to attempt to surprise some of the enemy's out-posts, but nothing could be effected. The small-pox was now making its appear ance in the neighbourhood. 8th. — There was a grand forage to the lower parts of Westchester county. A row-galley and a sloop were com ing up the North River. The covering party to the foragers on this day was nearly 1000 strong, and large quantities of forage were brought off. 10th. — Our General rode to Peek's Kill, where he arrived a little after dark. Gen. -Lincoln's troops were on their march to join Gen. Washington. Our General had ob tained leave of the Commander in Chief, to make a short visit to New-England, under an injunction to return very early. 12th. — About 10 o'clock, he left Peek's Kill, and arrived at his house in Roxbury on the 19th, about sun-set. March lith. — Our General set out from Roxbury, on his way back to the army ; but before he had got to Watertown, an express overtook him, with orders from Gen. Washing ton, for him to take command of the Eastern Department ; Gen. Ward having applied for leave to resign the com mand, meaning to retire from the service: he therefore turned back, and rode into Boston. This year, 1 111, formed an important era in the annals of America. Congress had determined to make great ex ertions to drive the British troops from America; for this 1 Probably William Humphrey of the 5th Dutchess Co. regiment. 2 Roger Enos, Lieutenant-Col. 2d Connecticut. (Died Oct. 6, 1808). 107 purpose, they had ordered 88 battalions to be raised in the United States, 15 of which fell to the share of Massachu setts. Besides the foregoing 88 battalions, they also or dered the raising of 16 others, called the additional bat talions ; and of these, three were raising in Massachusetts, viz. Jackson's, Lee's and Henley's; besides Armand's1 Legion, Artificers, &c. The arming, equipping and send ing on the recruits — furnishing the Recruiting Officers with bounty monies — and the forwarding on immense quantities of all kinds of military stores, (for Massachu setts might now be called the great magazine of military stores of the Union, partly on account of her own re sources, managed by the indefatigable industry of her Board of War) — and the arrivals of public stores here and at Portsmouth, called for the utmost diligence and ex ertion of the commanding General. The Commander in Chief had given directions for the troops to be forwarded on, with all possible dispatch, to Ticonderoga. 20th. — Maj. Gen. Ward resigned the command of the Eastern Department to our General, who took the com mand accordingly. 23d. — A detachment of British troops, consisting as was said of about 500 men, destroyed the American stores at Peek's Kill; they met with but very little opposition: here our General lost a part of his baggage, which was left when he came away for Boston, in February. Monsieur De Bore2, a French General, came to Boston : he had been en gaged by our Ministers in France, to enter the American service, &c. 27th. — Our General received orders from the Comman der in Chief to make an alteration in the destination of the Massachusetts regiments, sending eight of the regiments to Peek's Kill, and seven to Ticonderoga. 1 The French Colonel Armand, Marquis de la Rouerie. 2 Preudhomme Deborre, dismissed for insubordination at Brandy- wine. 108 31st. — Our General took a view of the state of the works at Dorchester, &c. April 3d. — Capt. Sumner, of Greaton's regiment, marched a detachment of his regiment for Peek's Kill. 4th. — A part of Col. Shepard's regiment marched for Peek's Kill. 7th. — Our General took a view of the barracks at Pros pect Hill, preparatory to the putting of the recruits under inoculation with the small-pox. 9th. — About 120 men of Paterson's1 regiment marched for Peek's Kill. 11th. — A part of Nixon's regiment marched for Peek's Kill; on the 12th, 160 men of Bailey's for Ticonderoga; and on the 13th, 200 of Wesson's2 for the latter place. The same day, began to inoculate the recruits at Prospect Hill. 15th. — Col. Jackson's Independent Company marched to do duty at Providence; and a company of Col. Crane's artillery for the main army. 16th. — Two hundred men of Col. Wigglesworth's3 regi ment marched for Peek's Kill. The same evening, our General received orders from Gen. Washington to send the troops to Peek's Kill, by the route of Kinderhook. The same day, 10 tons of powder arrived at Boston, from Portsmouth, (N. H.) A second division of recruits for Bailey's4 regiment marched for Ticonderoga, as did a division from Col. Bradford's for the same place. 20th.— A large letter-of-marque ship arrived at Boston from Nantz5 in France, with a valuable cargo on private account. 23d. — An express from Portsmouth brought an account of the arrival at that place of the French ship Amphitrite, 1 Col. John Paterson of Mass. (afterwards brigadier-general — died July 19, 1808). 2 James Wesson, Col. 9th Mass. (Died Oct. 15, 1809.) 3 Edward Wigglesworth, 13th Mass. 4 Col. John Bailey (Mass.) 23d Continentals (Died May 12, 1820) . 5 Nantes. 109 having on board 52 brass field-pieces, completely mounted, with apparatus ; 6132 muskets ; 120 barrels of powder, and many other articles. 24th. — A second division of Col. Crane's artillery marched for the army. 28th. — A division of Wesson's regiment marched for Ticonderoga. 29th. — An express arrived from Gov. Trumbull, giving an account that the enemy had landed a body of men near Fairfield, and that a number of ships were standing up Hudson's River. This body of the enemy consisted of about 2000; they landed on the 25th at Fairfield, and pushed for Danbury, where the Americans had magazines of stores, which the British burnt and destroyed. Gen erals Wooster and Arnold were in that part of Connecti cut; they assembled the militia of the vicinity, and at tacked the British on their return; and there were several very sharp skirmishes, at and near Ridgefield, in one of which the brave Gen. Wooster fell; and Gen. Arnold hav ing his horse shot down under him, by a soldier who was very near him, and who was following up his shot with his bayonet charged, Arnold catchea one of his pistols from the holsters on the slain horse, and instantly shot the soldier dead on the spot. The loss was considerable on both sides, in killed and wounded: the British say theirs did not exceed 172, killed, wounded and missing. The loss to the Americans in stores, &c. was considerable, and could but illy be spared at that time. May 5th. — Col. Jackson's Independent Company re turned from doing duty at Providence. 14th. — Gen. Du Coudray1, an experienced French artil lery officer, engaged by our Commissioners in France to act at the head of the American artillery, arrived at Bos ton : on viewing, from Beacon Hill, the situation of Boston, and the American works around the town, he made a laugh IP. C. J. B. Du Coudray (see p. 128). 110 at the British leaving the town when under no greater dan ger; adding that the force which they had might have de fended the place against an army of 50,000 men. A valu able prize, loaded with dry goods, was sent into Newbury port. 21st. — The Continental frigates, and a fleet of private ships of war, sailed on a cruise, with a fair wind. 28th. — Intelligence was received, that a detachment of Americans, under the command of Col. Meigs,1 of Con necticut, had passed the Sound on the 23d to Long Island, and crossed to Sag Harbour, where they destroyed and burnt a number of vessels at the wharf, and every thing on shore, and brought off 80 or 90 prisoners. This enter prise was conducted with much address and great expedi tion. 29th. — A prize brig was sent in, laden with salt, cordage, &c. She was from Topsham in England. No reinforce ment for the army in America had sailed the last of March. June 8th. — Two prizes were sent in; one laden with coals, the other with dry goods. 9th. — A 50 gun ship of the enemy, and two frigates were cruising in our bay. 14th. — A prize taken by Commodore Manly, laden with duck, cordage, &c. and two brigs from Bilbao, arrived safe. July 1st. — Intelligence was received, that Gen. Howe evacuated Brunswick2 on the 18th of the preceding month ; he had before advanced as far as Somerset court-house, and had thrown up a number of works, which he aban doned ; the American light troops harassed his rear. This day, four of the enemy's cruisers came so near in, as to be discovered from Nantasket. 1 Return Jonathan Meigs, afterwards distinguished at Stony Point. 2 New Brunswick, N. J. Ill 4th. — The anniversary of the Independence of the Uni ted States was celebrated with proper demonstrations of joy. 6th. — An express arrived from Peek's Kill, with intelli gence from Gen. Washington, intimating that on the morning of the 1st inst. the enemy's fleet which lay at Am boy sailed round that town ; and that the troops who lay encamped opposite to the town, struck their tents and marched off. The enemy were also advancing on the Lake with their fleet towards Ticonderoga. A detachment of soldiers for Col. M. Jackson's1 regiment marched for the northern army. 7th. — Capt. Cluston2 arrived from France with powder, arms, &c. for the State; he had also made a successful cruise. 11th. — Intelligence was received, that the Americans evacuated Ticonderoga on the 6th, at night; a great many stores, &c. were lost. The British no sooner arrived be fore Ticonderoga, than they were discovered on Mount Hope: this steep and rugged hill was thought to be inac cessible by the Americans, at least with artillery; and therefore, notwithstanding its nearness to the works, and overlooking of them in part, it was not taken possession of ; but they should have recollected what had been said by the late King of Prussia, as to such positions — that "where a goat can go, a man may go ; and where a man can go, ar tillery may be drawn up." The British were no sooner seen on this hill, where the wily Phillips of the artillery is said to have ascended, than they saw an additional reason for quitting the post. This was a sore and heavy loss to the Americans; but in the issue proved a more certain and earlier overthrow of all Burgoyne's army: yet so exasper ated were the people at the time, that had the commanding 1 Michael Jackson, 8th Mass. 2 There were two Capts. Clouston, Thomas and John from Mas sachusetts and New York respectively. It is impossible to decide which of them is referred to. Each was a privateersman. 112 General, St. Clair, been immediately brought to trial, he would have stood but a poor chance: he was afterwards tried and acquitted with honour. The British took posses sion of the works, and pushed on rapidly after the Ameri cans, taking and destroying every thing that fell in their way. Brig. Gen. Fraser, with the light troops, pursued with great ardour, and on the 7th came up with a body of the Americans, commanded by the brave Col. Francis,1 of Massachusetts. A warm action ensued; the Americans were worsted; the Colonel was slain, and many other offi cers and soldiers killed, wounded and taken prisoners. This flew through the country like a shock of electricity, and roused the people to noble exertions. Gen. St. Clair joined Gen. Schuyler at Fort Edward after a fatiguing re treat. On the 10th, a most conspicuous piece of gallantry was exhibited at Rhode Island. Maj. Gen. Prescott having command of the British troops at that place, Col. Barton2 of Providence formed a resolution to surprise and take him ; he accordingly proceeded to the island with a party of chosen men in two boats with muffled oars, taking with him a negro man whose hard head was nearly as efficacious as a beetle, to burst a door ; and on this night with great address evading the British water-guards, passed down the west side of the island, and landed near a hollow ground, and instantly pushed for the house of a Mr. Over- ing, where the General was quartered. The centinel at the door was seized, the house entered and demand made whether the General was there; and finding that he Avas, and the apartment, the door was burst open and the Gen eral and his Aid-de-camp seized, and told they must go off instantly. The General asked if he might put on his clothes. The Colonel answered, "very few, and very quick, Sir." The Colonel returned to his boats, and repassed the 1 Ebenezer Francis, 11th Mass. This was the battle of Hubbard- ton. 2 William Barton of Stanton's regiment of R. I. militia (Died Oct 22, 1831). 113 water-guards, which the General had much confidence would have released him; for on passing the last, he ob served to the Colonel, " Sir, I did not think it possible you could escape the vigilance of the water-guards." This was a brilliant affair ; and Congress duly rewarded Col. Barton for his distinguished address and gallantry. 13th. — An express arrived from Gen. Washington, with information that the British were preparing their trans ports for the embarkation of their troops from Staten Is land, wrere fixing berths for the light-horse, &c. but their destination could not be developed. They had pushed into the Jersies, as if designing to march to Philadelphia, and then turned back, as has been mentioned, from Amboy, and were now preparing to embark ; and we shall anon see more of their manoeuvres and deceptions. 16th. — A number of Americans, who had left the north ern army when it retreated, as is generally the case on sim ilar occasions, came to Boston; they were immediately taken up and confined, to be sent back again: the best method in like cases. 19th. — At evening an express passed through Boston, on his way to Philadelphia, with dispatches which had been brought to Portsmouth, (N.H.) by a vessel in 42 days' pas sage from France. It was said that there was great prob ability of an immediate war between France and Eng land. 21st. — By intelligence from Peek's Kill it was learnt, that on the preceding Wednesday 10 pieces of cannon were shipped for Albany ; that a division of the American army was opposite to Fishkill; and that Gen. Washington was moving towards King's Ferry with the main army, said to be 20,000 strong, with near 800 waggons, and having a number of flat bottomed boats on carriages, &c. 26th. — Count Pulaski, a Polish nobleman, came to Bos ton, and dined at head-quarters. August 1st. — Information was sent from Cape Ann, that a fleet of vessels, said to be near 100, had been seen 114 from the high lands, standing to the northward. This caused some alarm : the guards at the magazines, &c. were doubled. 4th. — Intelligence was received that Gen. Washington was moving with the main army towards Philadelphia, and had detached Gen. Glover with his brigade to join the northern army. An account was received that there had been a skirmish on Wood Creek, between a party of the Americans and the enemy, to the advantage of the former. 6th. — Intelligence was received that the American north ern army had fallen back to Saratoga. About this time, a party of the enemy landed on Boston Neck (so called) in Rhode Island: they were driven off without doing much damage. The same day intelligence was received, that on the 23d of the preceding month the British fleet sailed from Sandy Hook, and had arrived off the Capes of Delaware. 8th. — Intelligence was received, that the British fleet sailed out of the Capes of Delaware on the 31st ult. stand ing to the eastward. This induced Gen. Washington to retrograde the main American army towards the North River. 11th. — There was a report that the northern army had fallen back to Stillwater. One sixth part of the militia in a number of counties of Massachusetts were ordered to be detached and marched immediately to reinforce the northern army. 14th. — Intelligence was received that the British fleet had returned again to the Capes of Delaware. Col. John son and St. Leger were advancing with a body of the enemy towards Fort Schuyler, on the Mohawk River. About this time, a Miss M'Crea, said to be a beautiful young lady, and in all the innocence of youth, her father warmly engaged on the side of the British, and she on the very point of marriage with a British officer, on some dis pute between two Indians, as to which of them she of right belonged as a captive, was most inhumanly massacred! The act was probably as abhorrent to the British as to the 115 Americans; but they ought not to have engaged the sava ges in their cause, as they might well have known their ungovernable temper, and disposition for blood; for this was not the only instance — a British officer sending his waiter to a spring for some cool water, in a few minutes an Indian came in, with the scalp of the waiter smoking in his hand. St. Leger having gone up the Mohawk to reduce Fort Schuyler, Gen. Burgoyne determined to send out another strong detachment on his left, towards Bennington. The command of this detachment was given to Lieut. Col. Baum, a Hessian ; and Col. Breyman, with another detach ment, was ordered to cover and support Baum. These were met by the brave Gen. Stark, who gave them a complete overthrow. On the morning of the 16th, 32 officers and near 700 men were taken prisoners, with 4 light field- pieces, nearly 1000 arms, a quantity of baggage, &c. The Americans were said to have had about 25 men killed : the loss of the enemy in killed was judged to be near 200. Fort Schuyler was closely besieged by St. Leger ; and the brave Col. Herkimer, with the Tryon county militia, was march ing to its relief. St. Leger learning his advance, drew off a large part of his besieging troops, to meet and give him battle, before he got near the fort : the battle was obstinate, and the militia behaved with great bravery, but were at length defeated ; their brave Colonel and many of the mi litia were slain : it was said that the action lasted 5 or 6 hours. Matters now appearing more serious in this quar ter, Gen. Arnold marched with a sufficient detachment to raise the siege. As soon as St. Leger learnt his approach, he sent off some Indians, as if friends, to meet Arnold and inform him that St. Leger had received a strong reinforce ment, and advise Arnold to halt and wait for a reinforce ment himself — then abandoned the siege with precipita tion, leaving his tents standing, his baggage, artillery, &c. behind him. Thus were both Burgoyne's wings effectually clipped. 116 September 1st. — Intelligence was received, that after much manoeuvring, Howe's fleet came to anchor in Chesa- peak Bay, on the 21st ult. consisting of near 200 sail, and! it was expected that he would soon land his troops. The 24th, Gen. Washington's army was on full march to meet Howe and then within 5 miles of Philadelphia. A valuable cargo arrived safe from Spain; among other articles, a large number of shoes, hose, blankets, shirts, cordage, duck, &c. 2d. — Intelligence was received, that Gen. Howe's army had landed at the Head of Elk. A detachment from Gen. Sullivan's division a little before this time made an excur sion on to Staten Island, and brought off several hundred prisoners, and a large quantity of baggage. The Ameri can loss was said to be about 60, including officers. 5th. — Four hundred and one prisoners, taken near Ben nington by Gen. Stark, were escorted to Boston ; they con sisted of British, Brunswick and Canadian troops. 9th. — Capt. Harden1 arrived at Boston in a Connecticut State ship of 20 guns: he brought in with him a Jamaica packet, which he took during his cruise. It was said the packet had a large sum in specie on board ; and a Mr. Shir ley and family, on their passage to England. The last ac counts stated both Gen. Washington's and the northern army to be near the enemy; and important news might be momently expected. 19th. — Col. Lee's2 regiment moved int° Boston. 20th. — The disagreeable news was received, that on the 11th inst. a severe action took place between Gen. Wash ington's and Howe's armies, near the Brandywine, which ended rather in favour of the latter, who remained masters of the field. The British here, as in several other instances, had recourse to stratagem: they held out the appearance 1 Capt. Jonathan Haraden (1745-1803) — see Maclay's " History of American Privateers." 2 William R. Lee of the Additional Continentals. (Died Oct 26 1824). 117 of an intention of forcing their way at Chad's Ford, which Gen. Knyphausen menaced with a heavy column of Hes sians; while the British column, by a long circuitous march, reached the forks of the river, and there secured a safe passage. Gen. Washington was pretty early apprised of this movement, and immediately took measures for strengthening his right, by ordering some troops from his left. After the action had become pretty warm on the right, and the British had got the advantage, Knyphausen passed Chad's Ford; and al though the troops who were still on the left behaved well, they were by no means sufficient to resist the heavy column of Hessians. It is said that after the Hessian Grenadiers had crossed the Ford, they halted at the foot of the hill, below the Americans, under a warm fire, and with great deliberation changed their hats for their heavy brass caps, which they carried by a loop on a button at the hip, and then ascended the hill, from which the Americans were obliged to retire. Here the brave Capt. Bryant, of the artillery, who had before several times distinguished him self under the eye of our General, received a musket-ball in the bottom of his belly; a brother officer carried him off the field, but he died of the wound. Gen. Washington, seconded by his officers, did everything in their power to check the British; and a part of the American army took a position which probably saved the army from a total de feat. Perhaps the American army were, more or less, more generally engaged in this action than in any other during the war. The American loss was considerable in killed and wounded, and a number of pieces of brass field artillery were lost. The British also suffered pretty se verely in killed and wounded. The next night, Gen. Grey1 made, with much secrecy, an attack on a body of Americans, under the command of Gen. Wayne : the bayonet was chiefly made use of, and it 1 This was Grey, the " no flint general." The scene was Paoli, Pa. 118 proved but too efficacious against the Americans, who suf fered considerable loss, in killed and wounded. Gen. Washington letreated first to Philadelphia, and then left the city. The British army a few days afterwards ad vanced to Germantown, and on the 27th a detachment of their army took possession of Philadelphia. 23d. — Gen. Washington's orders for sending forward Colonels Lee, Henley and Jackson's regiments, were re ceived by our General. 24th. — Several prizes were sent in by a privateer brig be longing to Col. Sears. 25th. — Intelligence was received, that on Friday, the 19th instant, there was a warm and bloody action between Gen. Gates's and Burgoyne's advanced troops, which lasted until dark. The troops behaved with the greatest bravery on both sides. Col. Morgan's light corps, and eleven other American regiments were more or less en gaged. Of the Americans, 2 Lieutenant-Colonels, Coburn1 and Adams, 3 Captains, 3 Subalterns, and 56 non com missioned officers and privates were killed, and 248 wounded. The loss of the enemy was very considerable, and much greater than that of the Americans. On the ISth, the day preceding the foregoing battle, Col. Brown2 made an excursion in the enemy's rear to Lake George; made 293 of the enemy prisoners: retook 100 Americans: he also took near 100 batteaux, several large gun-boats, an armed sloop, &c. — took possession of the French lines (so called) at Ticonderoga, and summoned Fort Independence to surrender. 27th. — Col. Crafts' regiment of State artillery marched out of Boston, with 4 light field-pieces and an eight-inch howitzer, towards Providence, on a secret expedition, as it was called. 1 Lieut.-Cols. Winborne Adams, 2d N. H., and Andrew Colburn, 3d 2Lieut.-Col. John Brown, Berkshire militia, Arnold's accuser after wards killed at Stone Arabia, N. Y. 119 29th. — Intelligence was received, that several valuable prizes had been sent into Dartmouth. October 2d. — Intelligence was received, that on the 1 6th, Gen. Du Coudray was drowned in the Schuylkill ; he rode into the ferry-boat at one end, but was not able to com mand his horse, who went out at the other end of the boat, plunging into the river. This officer, as before mentioned, was engaged to come to America to take command of the artillery; but whatever may have been his talents, the ar tillery was so well commanded that the placing a foreign officer over them, in such a manner, and whose rank would also have soared above many other officers in the line, would most certainly have produced a convulsion in ihe army, had it been persisted in. This circumstance pre vented the danger. The same day Col. Lee's regiment marched for the main army. 6th. — Col. H. Jackson's regiment encamped on Boston common, and the next day, about noon, marched out of town for the army; the regiment, although small, made a good appearance. About the same time that the regiment marched out of town, upwards of 100 British and Cana dian prisoners, taken near Lake George, by Col. Brown, marched in. 8th. — It was learnt that a body of the enemy, said to be about 3000, were moving from New- York towards Peek's Kill. Gen. Washington, after he left Philadelphia, en camped near a place called Skippack Creek, about 16 miles from Germantown. 13th. — At 3 o'clock A. M. an express arrived from Gen. Gates's army, with an account that on Tuesday, the 7th inst. a smaru action took place between the right of Gen. Burgoyne's army and the American left, when the enemy were repulsed, drove back to their works, and then forced from them. Three Field-Officers, 6 Captains, 10 Subalt erns, 1 Quarter-Master-General, and 190 privates were taken prisoners, besides 300 taken in the hospital — 8 pieces of brass cannon, 2 twelve and 6 six pounders, 3 ammuni- 120 tion wagons, 300 tents, 200 barrels of flour, and a large quantity of baggage were trophies of the victory. One hundred of the enemy lay dead on the ground. The Ameri can loss, although not exactly known, was said not to be more than 30 killed and 100 wounded; among the latter, Generals Arnold and Lincoln, both in the leg, the former but slightly; it was problematical whether the latter was wounded by a British or American soldier. Gen. Fraser, an enterprising officer of the British, was mortally wounded, and died of his wounds. 15th. — Intelligence was received, that a body of the British from New- York, in about 30 transports, had pro ceeded up the Hudson ; they had made several landings be low and at Peek's Kill : on Monday, the 6th, they crossed over, landed on the west side of the river, and marched along the hills towards Fort Montgomery and its depend encies : this fort was tolerably situated on the bank of the Hudson, to annoy shipping going up the river; and the works were pietty good on that side, but were not so, nor fully completed on the back side; and the right flank was commanded by higher ground on the south, and near the fort, on the other side of Pooplop's1 Creek, the mouth of which was near to the south side of the fort ; on this higher ground, and near to the small deep pond, a strong redoubt, called Clinton, was erected; it was equally essential that this redoubt should be. taken, as a reduction of the fort : the Brtish therefore moved against this redoubt, while an other column, by a more circuitous movement, fell in the rear of Fort Montgomery; they were met in the defiles, where the skirmishes were sharp ; but they continued to ad vance to the redoubt, which was nobly defended, and before which they sustained very considerable loss, (a number of their slain were afterwards drawn out of the pond, where they had been thrown for concealment) but soon carried it, and afterwards Fort Montgomery. The garrison prin- 1 Now spelled Peploop's or Peploap's. 121 cipally made their escape in the dusk of the evening; among them were Gov. Clinton and his brother, who was a Brigadier General also : they made their escape in a very hazardous manner, and the latter was wounded. After the reduction of Fort Montgomery, the Americans evacuated Fort Constitution and the block-house on Constitution Is land, opposite to West-Point (the latter was not yet forti fied;) and two new frigates, Congress and Montgomery, which lay in the river, were set on fire by the Americans and burnt. T'he enemy afterwards proceeded up the river, and burnt Esopus; their object was if possible to form a junction with Burgoyne, or open a water communication to Albany ; and spies passed between them. 16th. — Two or three of the enemy's cruisers appeared in the bay, but a few leagues from the Light. While the Brit ish army lay encamped at Germantown, Gen. Washington resolved to attack them. This was a brave design ; and the success of the first onset, at about 3 o'clock, A. M. of the 4th inst. after ihe Americans had marched all the night, was equal to the design; for the British, where the attack was first made, were almost instantly pushed from their ground, and were falling back panic struck on their other troops, when Lieut. Col. Musgrave had the presence of mind to throw several companies into a strong stone house. Houses at all times, and especially those of stone and brick, under a judicious conduct, admit of a good defence ; and at this time probably proved the means of the Americans los ing an advantage, which no one can tell how far it might have been pushed. When an enemy is routed, and panic- struck are flying before the assailants, the best, if not the only way is to follow them, if the ground will permit of it, close at their heels, taking care not to fall into ambuscades. Thus the panic of fear continues to multiply; but if the pursuers stop, and especially if those who were flying hear a firing behind them, but not upon them, they conclude that their own troops in turn have gotten an advantage, or at least are holding their pursuers at bay. This immedi- 122 ately recovers them from their panic; they will next re turn to the charge, and will be more likely to make an ob stinate resistance than before they were at first routed; while their return to the charge will greatly damp those who before considered themselves almost in the grasp of vic tory. Hence what took place at Germantown was no won der. The fogginess of the morning was unfortunate for the Americans : but the British taking possession of the stone house, and defending it, was the most unfortunate circumstance. The loss on both sides was considerable; on the side of the Americans, Brig. Gen. Nash1, and on the side of the British Brig. Gen. Agnew, were among the slain; but though this attempt was not crowned with vic tory, it caused the British to have a more reverential opin ion of Gen. Washington, whom they now found dare to at tack their whole army, even in a chosen position of their own. Perhaps is was best that the action closed as it did ; had the Americans made their way far into the long street of that town, probably many other houses would have been occupied in the same way. The burying-yard, with a strong wall, was lined with troops by the enemy; and the position in which their army lay was calculated for their wings closing in to much advantage; at any rate, the battle must have been very bloody, and situation and circumstances were in favour of the British. After the British were in possession of Philadelphia, they had much to do in order to get possession of the Delaware, and remove the obstruc tions which had been formed in it. There were also sev eral works to be reduced; among others, a fort on Mud- Island, and a pretty strong work at Red Bank. 22d. — Highly important and most interesting intelli gence was received, that on the 17th inst. Gen. Burgoyne and his whole army surrendered, under Convention. They were to be marched to the neighborhood of Boston, and from thence sent to England. Upon receipt of this news, 1 Francis Nash of North Carolina. 123 the cannon on Fort Hill were discharged, and joy was seated on every brow. 23d. — At 1 o'clock, P. M. the cannon on Fort Hill and on the heights of Dorchester were discharged, and also on board the ships in the harbour. In the evening, our Gen eral's quarters (the house of the late Hon. Mr. Russel) was beautifully illuminated. The following is the number of troops which surrendered to Maj. Gen. Gates, and the state of Gen. Burgoyne's army after he left Canada : Under the Convention.) British, 2,442 Foreign, 2,198 Canadians, &c. sent back to Canada, . . . 1,100 Staff, 12 Prisoners taken at different times, Sick and wounded, Deserters, Lost at Bennington, Killed since the 17th of September, Killed and taken at Ticonderoga, 5,752 400528300 1,220 600 413 Total, 9,213 The brass ordnance taken were as follows: 2 24- pounders; 4 12-pounders; 18 6-pounders; 4 3-pounders; 2 8-inch mortars; 5 howitzers; total, 35, exclusive of those taken at Bennington. Thus were the British totally disappointed in this quar ter. The troops intended to form a junction on the Hud son were as high up as Poughkeepsie; and Gen. Burgoyne informed our General after he arrived at Boston, that on the evening after he had proposed to Gen. Gates to surren der, in case he could obtain honourable terms, which were to be settled the next day, a spy came in from the troops down the river, stating how far they had got up and what steps were next to be taken; on which he (Gen. Burgoyne) 124 assembled his officers more generally than usual in coun cils, and stated to them the circumstances and situation of both armies, and whether, consistently with fair principles of honour they could break off the negotiation for an hon ourable Convention, or not; when it was the unanimous opinion of every officer present that they could not. But in a situation like this at that moment, danger at hand is more powerful on the mind than the hope of relief at a distance. The troops who were up the river returned down. The capture of Gen. Burgoyne and his whole army, who were now on their way to Boston, opened a new, impor tant and delicate field for our General. This army, in which there were many officers of military erudition and some of refined and courtly manners, who had a high opin ion of national honour and prowess, and who, in con sequence of the Convention which they had formed, had their spirits by no means depressed, as those who are com pelled to surrender at discretion, — were sure to lay a heavy task on his shoulders. As soon as he was notified that these troops were coming under his direction, he set him self in earnest to prepare for their reception. The barracks at Prospect and Winter Hills were directed to be put in stantly in order. The Council was applied to, to aid in the procurement of quarters from the citizens for the officers; nor was this an easy task. The families of the citizens generally wanting the room in their respective houses, ren dered it difficult to obtain so many quarters as were neces sary for so great number, and extended the limits of the parole very considerably. The Council were disposed to do everything in their power, and gave orders accordingly whenever they were necessary. A heavy duty was also fall ing on the Quarter-Master's department, as it respected quarters, and also fuel, the latter of which had been ren dered scarce in the vicinity by the American army having been here in 1775 ; and the enemy's cruisers prevented its being brought from the eastern country. But by the exer tions of Col. Chase, who was Deputy-Quarter-Master-Gen- 125 eral, and the assistants and conductors in this department, and of Col. Davis, who was Deputy-Barrack-Master, and who, in the procurement of fuel, was indefatigable, a com fortable supply was obtained. Before the arrival of the troops at Cambridge, our General had digested and drafted a parole, and several articles for the government of the troops in quarters ; these he had drawn in as an article in the parole ; and the honour of the officers in this way was pledged for their observance of the articles, which rendered the government of them much easier ; being thus bound to govern themselves with propriety, or infringe their pa roles; knowing that many things in minutiae would be to settle, which would be tedious in an epistolary way. As soon as General Burgoyne had arrived at Cambridge, our General sent over one of his Aides-de-camp to invite Gen. Burgoyne to dine with him the next day, bringing with him his two Major-Generals, Phillips and Reidesel. An ele gant dinner was prepared, and many other gentlemen in vited, among whom were Generals Glover of Massachusetts, and Whipple1 of New Hampshire, who were at the capture and had commanded the escort, &c. from Saratoga to Cam bridge. November 8th. — Our General sent one of his Aids to ac company Gen. Burgoyne and the other officers into Boston by the way of Roxbury ; they arrived some time before din ner, as was intended, that business might be considered. The parole was shewn to them, and the articles for their government in quarters, with which they were well pleased. But here a discovery was first made of something which they wished to retain while in our country, and which our General would never for a moment allow; General Phil lips turning to our General, observed, "Sir, you well know the disposition of soldiers, and that they will more or less in all armies commit some disorders; suppose you should delegate to Gen. Burgoyne the power of seeing your orders 1 William Whipple, brigadier-general N. H. militia. (Died Nov. 28, 1785). 126 executed." Our General replied that he knew the dispo sition of soldiers, and also the necessity of order and dis cipline; that he was not only willing, but expected that Gen. Burgoyne, and every other officer, would exert them selves to keep order; that for this purpose among them selves, and for the internal order and obedience, he might command and punish as might appear to be necessary; but in no case to attempt capital punishment. But as to the exercise of his own command, and enforcement of his own orders when necessary, this was a jurisdiction which Gen. Burgoyne must not expect to exercise while here. Gen. Burgoyne smiled, and Gen. Phillips turned it off by say ing, " I only meant it for your easement, Sir." Before dinner was done, so great was the curiosity of the citizens of both sexes, and of all ages and descriptions, to get a peep at Gen. Burgoyne, that the streets were filled, the doors, windows, the tops of the houses and fences crowded. Gen. Burgoyne had asked our General if he would indulge him to go out of town by the way of Charles town, which was instantly granted. When he was ready to depart, our General told him that he should accompany him to the ferry ; and a procession was formed, the Ameri can gentlemen mixing with the British. The streets were so crowded, that it was difficult getting along; but not a word or a gesture that was disrespectful. When arrived opposite to the Province-House, General Burgoyne turned round to the other Generals, and observed, " There is the former residence of the Governor;" when some person on the side of the street, and in a tone fully to be heard, added, "and on the other side is the riding school;" alluding to the Old South Meeting-House having been put to that use in 1775 : but the General, who must have heard it, made no reply, but soon after observed, " Sir, I am astonished at the civility of your people; for were you walking the streets of London in my situation, you would not escape insult." When arrived at the ferry-ways, the crowd were down to the water's edge; but when the boat put off, there was not 127 the least indecency, or wry countenance discovered. O my dear countrymen ! how did this your dignified conduct at that moment charm my very soul ! Such conduct flows from a greatness of mind, that goes to conquer a world. Col. Keith was appointed Deputy- Adjutant-General, and Major Swasey1 Town Major. 14th. — The Council were still deliberating on the sub ject of quarters, and determined to do every thing in their power ; but some individuals were refractory. 19th. — Gen. Hancock arrived in town, and was saluted by the discharge of the cannon of the Fort, Park, &c. 22d- — Intelligence was received of the repulse of the enemy before the redoubt at Red Bank, on the 22d ult. This redoubt or fort had a garrison by no means sufficient properly to man the whole work. The commanding officer had therefore wisely lessened it, by running a parapet with a ditch across the area of the fort, but had left the work en tire in its largest extent. A body of chosen troops were sent to reduce this work, under the command of the Hes sian Col. Donop, a brave and good officer. In order if pos sible to get some idea of the work, he sent his summons for the fort to surrender by a very capable Adjutant; but the Commandant of the fort took care to have him stopped without the work, and where he had no opportunity to see more than the ditch and parapet on that side. The com manding officer refusing to surrender, an assault was made ; the assailants at the head of the column bringing in their hands a sufficient number of short fascines to fill the ditch where they meant to pass, which was well done, and the parapet was mounted ; but to their disappointment and surprise, they now found there was another ditch and par apet to pass, and in the face of a dreadful fire too, which made great slaughter; a number of them, however, ad vanced into the second ditch, and began to remove the fri zes on the berme; but these were generally killed in the 1 Joseph Swasey of William R. Lee's regiment. 128 ditch, and such as were not killed or wounded obliged to quit the outer work. Their loss in killed and wounded was great; among the latter Col. Donop mortally ; he was taken after the action near the fort, and brought in. An Ensign had made his way over the second ditch, had got on to the frizes, and lay close against the base of the parapet until the action was over, and then got up and surrendered, ob serving that he thought his position the only safe one ; for had he attempted to put his head above the parapet, he knew his brains would have been instantly blown out; or if he had attempted to re-cross the ditch, he should have been shot in the back. Besides this severe check, the Brit ish met with considerable opposition and loss at other places, before they got full and peaceable possession of the river ; particularly at Mud Island. They lost the Augusta man-of-war, and suffered other naval damage. Gen. Washington being now considerably reinforced with a part of the northern conquering army, advanced to White Marsh, about 14 miles from Philadelphia, where he encamped in a strong and well chosen position. Gen. Howe, apprehensive that this movement indicated a design upon Philadelphia, determined to move out, and either in vite Gen. Washington to a general action, or, if he found him vulnerable, to attack him in his own position. Accord ingly, on the evening of the 4th of December, he marched with the British army, and on the next morning took post on Chestnut Hill, in front of the American right. Gen. Washington, knowing the goodness of his position, wisely continued in it ; nor dare Gen. Howe attack him. The latter then changed his ground to a new position, opposite to the American left and centre, but neither dare he attack either of these. Several skirmishes took place, as is usual in such cases; in one of which Brig. Gen. Irvine on the Amer ican side was wounded. After several days spent in this way, Howe was obliged to return without effecting any thing, to the no small injury of his army, who had suffered much from the inclemency of the season. Indeed nothing 129 is more destructive to an army than winter campaigns. After this, Gen. Washington moved the American army to Valley Forge, on the Schuylkill, about 16 miles from Phil adelphia, where he took a position as wisely chosen as the other, and where the army erected huts for the winter. We now return to take up our chain of events. 23d. — A French ship, with dry goods from France, by the way of St. Peters1, arrived at Boston. Gen. Burgoyne had not yet signed the parole; he pre tended to delay until their quarters were fully furnished, although he had every assurance that it should be done as fast as circumstances would possibly admit. On this day, therefore, our General wrote him the following letter. Head-Quarters, Boston, Nov. 23, 1777. " Sir, Two weeks have now elapsed since I had fully expected that the officers would have signed their paroles. They have, during this time, been enjoying in a great measure the liberty of the limits intended to be assigned to them. without pledging their honour by parole; which is not only contrary to the established custom of nations, but con trary to the eleventh article of the Convention. Whatever objections might at first be made to giving the parole must now be done away, by the fullest evidence that proper quarters shall be provided, and which in a very consider able degree is already done. I must, therefore, in the most explicit terms, insist that the officers who wish and expect to be permitted on parole, agreeably to the Convention, do sign it to-morrow. This is so reasonable, that I expect there will be no further hesitancy; and I still assure your Excel lency, that no endeavours of mine shall be wanting to ful fil the Convention, and to treat the officers with politeness and generosity. I am, &c. (Signed) WILLIAM HEATH. 1 Presumably the island of St. Pierre. 130 25th.— Gen. Burgoyne and the other officers of the Con vention signed their parole. Congress before this, viz. on the 8th instant, passed the following resolve : In Congress, Nov. 8, 1777. " Resolved, That Maj. Gen. Heath be directed forthwith to cause to be taken down the name and rank of every com missioned officer, and the name, former place of abode and occupation, size, age, and description of every non-com missioned officer and private soldier, and all other persons comprehended in the Convention made between Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne and Maj. Gen. Gates, on the 16th day of Octo ber, 1777, and transmit an authentic copy thereof to the Board of War, in order that if any officer or soldier, or other person as above mentioned, of the said army, shall hereafter be found in arms against these States in North- America, during the present contest, he may be convicted of the offence, and suffer the punishment in such case in flicted by the law of nations. That Maj. Gen. Heath be directed to take the parole in writing of the officers, according to the Convention, and transmit authenticated copies of such paroles to the Board of War. Extract from the Minutes, (Signed) Charles Thomson, Sec'y. Upon the foregoing being communicated to Gen. Bur goyne, and he called upon to have the said descriptive lists made out accordingly, he wrote our General the following letter : Cambridge, Nov. 20, 1777. " Sir, I received a paper, dated head-quarters, Boston, Nov. 20th, purporting to be founded upon express orders from the Honourable Continental Congress, which paper I re turn as inadmissible, because extending to matters in which the Congress have no right of interference. 131 A list of the names and rank of every commissioned officer, and the numbers of the non-commissioned officers and soldiers, may be necessary to you, Sir, for the purpose of fulfilling the Convention, in quartering officers, and the regular delivery of provisions, fuel, &c. Such lists shall be prepared at your request; but before any other lists can be granted, I must be assured of the purposes for which they are intended, and the word order must neither be mentioned or implied. I have the honour to be, &c. (Signed) J. Burgoyne, Lieut. Gen. To Maj. Gen. Heath." To the foregoing, our General wrote an answer as fol lows: Head-Quarters, Boston, Nov. 21, 1777. " Sir, Yours of yesterday is before me; and although you might at first imagine that the Hon. Continental Congress have no right of interference in matters of the Convention, yet I conclude upon further reflection you must be con vinced, that as that body are the Representatives of that people who are to reap the advantages or disadvantages of the Convention, and as all continental officers are acting by virtue of their authority, and under their direction, they assuredly have a right of interference, and to give such orders to their officers as they may think proper, for the full completion of the Convention, and for the safety and good of the people. The paragraph of my orders of the 20th inst. respect ing the troops of the Convention is founded in reason and justice, being designed only to ascertain the officers and soldiers who were comprehended in the Convention, that in case any of them (contrary to their faith and honour) should hereafter be found in arms against these States, iu North America, during the present contest, they may be convicted of the offenee, and suffer the punishment in such 132 [1777 case inflicted by the law of nations. I must therefore in sist that you furnish me with proper lists of names and descriptions, for the purpose before mentioned, as soon as may be. . The other lists of the names and rank of the commis sioned officers, and number of non-commissioned officers and soldiers, so essentially necessary for the several pur poses of regularity with Quarter-Masters and Commissar ies (and which should be frequently renewed, as circum stances may vary) should long ere this have been exhibited. Some days since, I directed my Deputy- Adjutant-General to call for them ; and I expect they will be sent in without delay, for the purposes above mentioned. I shall at all times endeavour to found my orders on the principles of honour, reason and justice, and not to in fringe those delicate principles in others; but my orders for the purposes of order and regularity, must be obeyed by every man placed under my direction ; and fully deter mined I am, that offenders shall not pass with impunity. I am, &c. (Signed) W. Heath, Maj. Gen. Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne." 23d. — Gen. Burgoyne wrote an answer to the foregoing. But he now acknowledged a further exLent of the supreme power, than in his former letter; but still at least obliquely denied the right of their interferenc with the Convention troops, who were under express stipulations until they quitted the country, and that no new conditions could be imposed upon them; and asserting that no such requisi tions were laid upon the American prisoners in Canada; and concluding, that if it could be found that such had been required by the British in any case, he would submit to it. About this time, an officer who had been a prisoner in Canada returned to Boston on parole, and gave infor mation that he and others had complied with similar in junctions before they came away; upon this being com- 1778] 133 municated to Gen. Burgoyne, he found that he had got to the end of his tether of evasion ; he did not attempt to dis pute more, but observed that he supposed if it was done any time before the troops departed, it would answer the purpose. Our General found that nothing could be done by force, for were he to attempt of himself to have the lists taken, every thing might be evaded except the size and com plexion. He therefore laid the matter before Congress, with the copies of what had passed. Congress took the matter into consideration, and President Laurens wrote our General an approbation of his conduct, and not to push the matter, as Congress would take a more extensive view of the business ; concluding his letter, " 1 have in conclu- " sion to assure you, Sir, that Congress repose the utmost " confidence in your address and abilities for conducting " with propriety this important business, in which, on one " side, the faith and honour of these infant States are to " be preserved, and on the other, the magnanimity and res- " olution of Congress to be exemplified." December. — Congress had received some intimations that an application would be made to them for leave for the troops of the Convention to embark at some other place than Boston ; they therefore on the 1st of December passed a resolution that no other place than that stipulated in the Convention, viz. Boston, should be admitted. A few days after, Gen. Burgoyne applied, as was suspected, but to no purpose. Congress also passed resolutions that all the assistance of provisions and other necessaries furnished to the troops of the Convention should be paid for in specie, or replaced in quantity or quality. 1778. January. — Gen. Burgoyne had now got himself into a very serious entanglement ; he had not only refused, and then delayed to give descriptive lists of the troops of the Convention, but some time before, viz. in the month of November, had written a letter to Gen. Gates, complaining that the troops had not been furnished with quarters as 134 they had a right to expect, and among other things a para graph as follows : " While I state to you, Sir, this very unexpected treat ment, I entirely acquit Maj. Gen. Heath and every gentle man of the military department of any inattention to the public faith engaged in the Convention. They do what they can; but while the Supreme Powers of the State are un able or unwilling to enforce their authority, and the inhabi tants want the hospitality, or indeed the common civiliza tion to assist us without it, the public faith is broke, and we are the immediate sufferers." This was unreasonable, both as it respected the civil po wer and the people; for the former did everything in their power, unless they had turned the citizens out of their houses to have let the Convention officers in, which was not to be expected ; nor could it be supposed that the citizens would turn their families themselves into the streets. But Congress considered the conduct of Gen. Burgoyne, and these and other of his expressions on the occasion, as call ing for serious consideration. They therefore investigated the whole in all its latitudes; and the President of Con gress wrote to our General that as it was a matter of high importance, and required deep deliberation, it would prob ably occupy some days, before the resolutions would be completed. But that, in case the fleet arrived before the papers were sent to him, to forbid the embarkation. Gen. Burgoyne had received intimations that a fleet of transports were about to come round for the troops, and that the Juno frigate was to wear a flag for his particular accommodation. This he mentioned to our General, and wished to know if the frigate might come up into the har bour. Our General had no apprehensions of any danger from a frigate entering the harbour, but apprehended that some people might think that he was not sufficiently vigi lant, in case he allowed it. He therefore told Gen. Bur goyne that the frigate could not come up into the harbour, and hinted to him the taking of one of the most convenient 135 transports in the fleet for the purpose ; and he might do as he pleased when he got off. This touched Gen. Burgoyne exceedingly, who wrote a letter to our General, in which was the followng paragraph : "As to your allotment of a "convenient transport" for my passage, if it was from yourself, I am to thank you Sir, for a sort of insult which the most haughty man of office would be ashamed of, in any other country. However, as I am determined every transaction concerning this Conven tion shall be notorious, and beyond the powers of subter fuge to explain away, I have directed the frigate together with the transports to come round, and it will then be for you, Sir, to prohibit the entry of Boston harbour to any ships bearing a flag of truce, and declaring they are sent for the express purpose of conveying to Great Britain any part of the troops of the Convention. (Signed) J. Burgoyne. Maj. Gen. Heath." To which our General wrote the following answer: Head-Quarters, Boston, Jan. 5, 1778. " Sir, Your Excellency's favour of yesterday came duly to hand; and I must confess I was not a little surprised at some expressions in it. As by the Convention, transports only are stipulated to receive the troops, I submit to you, Sir, whether a hint (if you were even sure that it came from myself) that you should take a convenient one, rather than introduce a fri gate, which is neither expressed or implied in the Conven tion, merits those epithets which you are pleased to bestow on me. I have every aimed to treat you with politeness ; and the plighted faith and honour of my country require me to pay strict attention to the Convention on their part : of course, when transports arrive to receivethe troops, they will enter 136 the harbour ; and if you can find by the Convention that a frigate is to enter for the particular reception of yourself, she will not be prohibited. But if it is rather uncommon for ships of war to bear flags of truce, and if consenting to it in the present case should appear to be rather an act of politeness and generosity than otherwise, I leave you to your own reflections whether you have made choice of the most happy expressions to obtain it. (Signed) W. Heath. Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne." Gen. Burgoyne somehow communicated to Viscount Howe the subject of the frigate, who wrote Gen. Burgoyne the following letter some time after, but before the trans ports came round. Eagle, Rhode Island, Feb. 3, 1778. " Sir, I am much concerned to find by your letter I had the honour to receive from you, on the return of Capt. Piper, that you have suffered so greatly in your health. But I hope that a speedy removal to a milder climate will contribute to your effectual recovery. The transports have only been delayed to take the pre cautions necessary for their safe passage at this season of the year. As it is not to be expected that the frigate or dered for your reception, though carrying a flag of truce, and restricted from every act of hostility in consequence, whilst attending this service, should be admitted within the port of Boston, the commander, Capt. Jacobs, will be to land a letter under the same sanction, for giving you notice of his arrival off the entrance of the port. He will wait to be favoured in your answer with notice of the time you may expect to embark, on which occasion I trust you will find every facility that your impaired state of health may require. (Signed) Howe. \» 137 Thus did the Admiral's opinion perfectly coincide with that of our General. But Congress had passed a resolution, on the 8th day of January, upon principles clearly expressed in a report of a committee upon which the resolution was founded: " That the embarkation of Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne, and the troops under his command, be suspended, till a distinct and explicit ratification of the Convention of Saratoga shall be prperly notified by the Court of Great Britain to Congress." Our General's correspondence with Gen. Burgoyne, re specting the frigate, &c. was transmitted to Congress, and the President soon after wrote him — " The House appeared to be pleased with your conduct in every respect relative to that officer." Gen. Burgoyne applied to Congress for leave to go to Europe himself; but Congress did not then think proper to grant his request. Although this denial must have been very painful to the General, he did not express himself, or write any thing in the least improper. He observed to our General, that he was sorry; for that not only his health urged his departure, but that every day he was detained here, gave his enemies at home an opportunity for piercing the wound of his reputation the deeper. But Col. Kingston was not so prudent as the General : a packet of letters which Gen. Burgoyne wished to send to Gen. Howej was sent to our General for inspection ; among these was one from Col. Kingston to Lord Harcourt, in which, after observing that fortune had not shewn them the smooth side of her face, yet they thought their misfor tunes honourable, proceeded, that he (Gen. Burgoyne) was not well, but "you know his firmness. But I think the insincerity of France, bigotry of Spain, or the vindic tive Portugese, situated as he is, would not have sought for means unnecessarily to detain him." This insult to the au thority of the country induced our General to detain this letter, and he notified Gen. Burgoyne of it, adding, that 138 while it was his wish to gratify the officers as much as pos sible in writing to their friends, he expected they would be cautious and prudent in their manner of expression. When the American Deputy-Adjutant-General gave the letter from our General to Gen. Burgoyne, and he had read it, he observed : " I told Col. Kingston that Gen. Heath would not let that letter pass." He should have done more — for bid his making the attempt. Another serious matter took place about this time : Col. Henley, who had the immediate command at Cambridge, a brave and good officer, but warm and quick in his natural temper, having ordered some prisoners who were under guard turned out, that he might examine them, one of them treated him, as he judged, with much insolence; upon which he pricked him with a sword, or bayonet. Gen. Bur goyne immediately presented a complaint against Col. Hen ley, charging him with barbarous and wanton conduct, and intentional murder, as appears in the following letter : Cambridge, Jan. 9th, 1778. " Sir, A report has been made to me of a disturbance that happened at the barracks on Wednesday . afternoon, for which I am much concerned ; and though the provocations from your people, which originally occasioned it, were of the most atrocious nature, I was willing the offender on our part should be properly punished. But Col. Henley, not content with that, made prisoners of eighteen innocent men, and sent them on board a guard-ship, as alleged by your order. It is not only a duty to my situation to de mand the immediate discharge of these men, together with a satisfactory apology; but I also mean it as an attention to you, Sir, that I give you an immediate opportunity to disavow so unjustifiable a proceeding as committing men to the worst of prisons upon vague report, caprice and pas sion. Insults and provocations, at which the most placid dis- 139 positions would revolt, are daily given to the officers and soldiers of this army. Regular, decent complaints are re ceived by your officers, sometimes with haughtiness, some times with derision, but always without redress. These evils flow, Sir, from the general tenor of language and con duct held by Col. Henley, which encourages his inferiors, and seems calculated to excite the most bloody purposes. For want of sufficient information, and not bringing my self to believe it possible that facts as related by common report could be true, I have hitherto declined taking public notice of this man; but upon positive grounds I now and hereby formally accuse Col. Henley of behaviour heinously criminal as an officer, and unbecoming a man ; of the most indecent, violent, vindictive severity against unarmed men, and of intentional murder. I demand prompt and satisfac tory justice, and will not doubt your readiness to give it. Whenever you will inform me that a proper tribunal is ap pointed, I will take care that undeniable evidence shall be produced to support these charges. I am, &c. (Signed) J. Burgoyne. i " To which our General returned the following answer: Head-Quarters, Boston, Jan. 10th, 177S. " Sir, YOURS of yesterday's date, I received the last even ing. What provocations you allude to, as having been of fered by my troops, I am at a loss to determine. The in sults and abuses which they have received, I will venture to say, unless I have been most grossly misinformed, are unparalleled; and whether you are willing or unwilling, Sir, offenders shall no longer pass with impunity. If it can be made to appear that any of those soldiers sent to the guard-ship by my orders, are innocent, they shall be released from their confinement : but with respect to such as have been guilty of violating my standing orders of the garrison, instead of disavowing or making any 140 apology for the confinement of such, be assured that I do most explicitly avow it. And as I have before observed to your Excellency in a former letter, of which you may be assured, I shall at all times endeavour to found my orders on the principles of honour, reason and justice, and not to infringe those delicate principles in others: so also be assured, Sir, that such my orders shall be obeyed by every officer and soldier placed under my direction ; and such as have the hardiness to transgress them, shall abide the con sequences. I have been informed of late, that some have hinted that such of your troops as break my orders, ought to be tried and punished by your orders. Even the mention of such a thing, I conceive to be (to use your own words in a late letter, with a little variation) a sort of insult that a man of military erudition in any country would be ashamed of, as being repugnant to every idea of military discipline; and from my opinion of your military knowl edge, I cannot admit that you ever hinted it. To convince you that it is my fixed determination to in quire into all abuses, whether committed by my own troops, or thoseofthe Convention, whilst they remain within my de partment, I have ordered Col. Henley under arrest, and ap pointed a Court of Inquiry, whereof Brig. Gen. Glover is President, to examine into the grounds of your complaint, on Wednesday next, at 10 o'clock, A. M. at Cambridge; and if any complaints have heretofore passed unredressed it is because they have not been laid before me. You hinted to me when I had the pleasure of seeing you last at Cam bridge, that one of my officers had been enticing some of the troops of the Convention to enter our service. I then in formed you, that if you would send the complaint, I would immediately bring the officer to trial. You promised to do it, but I have not yet received it. I now call upon you to exhibit that charge, or any other that you have to make against any officer under my command, for practices of that kind, or any other; being with yourself fully deter- 141 mined that all my conduct respecting the Convention shall be notorious, and beyond the powers of subterfuge to ex plain away. (Complaints of most enormous abuses have lately been made to me ; one, of the conduct of a number of officers on the evening or night of the 25th of December, at Bradish's Tavern ; others, of prisoners being rescued from the guards — centinels abused and insulted on their posts — passes counterfeited, and others filled up in the most af frontive manner; and of late, several highway robberies committed in the environs of the garrison — one the last evening, in which a gentleman was robbed of between 7 and 800 dollars, and a watch. The robberies I do not charge to your people, as it is unknown who were the perpetrators ; but there are several reasons to suspect it. All these, Sir, tend not only to exasperate the troops, but to enrage the inhabitants of the country, who view such abuses as unsuf- ferable. I therefore call upon you to exert your endeav ours to suppress all abuses, as far as in your power. (Signed) I am, &c. Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne." W. Heath. Col. Henley was ordered under arrest, and Col. Lee to take command at Cambridge ; and the general order of the 10th of January announced — " Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne having entered a complaint against Col. Henley, charging him with gross misconduct while in command at Cambridge; the honour of the United States, and the justice due to an officer of Col. Henley's character, demand a public inquiry: for which purpose a Court of Inquiry is to sit at Cambridge on Wednesday next, at 10 o'clock in the morning, at such place as the President shall appoint." Brigadier-General Glover, President. Col. M.. Jackson, ^°;-iee' )¦ Members. Col. Nixon, |' Col. H. Jackson, J All persons concerned, to attend the Court. 142 Gen. Burgoyne found fault, that a Court of Inquiry only was appointed, and not a Court-Martial. He was answered, that this was frequently the case ; that it did not preclude the latter ; and where an officer of rank, and in particular one who had the immediate command was the object, this previous step was both justifiable and proper. The Court of Inquiry met, and gave in their opinion ; and in the gen eral orders of January 18th, the following was announced : " The Court, whereof Brig. Gen. Glover was President, appointed by the orders of the 10th inst. to inquire into the grounds of a complaint exhibited by Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne again Col. Henley, late commanding officer of the Ameri can troops at Cambridge — after mature consideration are of opinion, that from the evidence offered on the side of Gen. Burgoyne against Col. Henley, it will be most for the honour of Col. Henley, as well as for the satisfaction of all concerned, that the judgment of a Court-Martial should be taken on his conduct, during his command at Cambridge. The General, approving the opinion of the Court, or ders that a special general Court-Martial sit on Tuesday next, at 10 o'clock, A. M. at the court-house in Cambridge, for the trial of Col. David Henley, late commanding officer at that post, accused by Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne of a general tenor of language and conduct heinously criminal as an of ficer, and unbecoming a man ; of the most indecent, violent, vindictive severity against unarmed men, and of inten tional murder. Brigadier-General Glover, President. Col. Wesson, Capt. Langdon, Col. M. Jackson, Capt. Sewall, Col. Lee, Capt. Hastings, Col. H. Jackson, Lieut. Col. Popkin, Lieut. Col. Colman, Maj. Curtis, CP a* to >-*Til Lieut. Col. Badlam, Capt. Randall, 'These officers were (probably) Dudley Coleman, 13th Mass.; John Popkin, 3rd Continental Artillery; William Curtis, Henley's Additional Continentals; Thomas Randall, 3rd Cont. Art'y; .John Langdon, Jack son's Continentals; Stephen Sewall of Lee's. Add'l Continentals (pos sibly Henry, 12th Mass.); John Hastings of Lee's; William Tudor was Judge Advocate General of the Army at the time. 143 Lieut. Col. Tudor is desired to act as Judge- Advocate. All evidences and persons concerned, to attend the Court." The Court met, and adjourned several times, through a long, particular, and tedious trial. Gen. Burgoyne at tended, and in a very engaged and eloquent manner said every thing which he judged proper ; which, although novel in Courts-Martial, was yet permitted. The general orders of the 27th of February announced as follows : "Col. David Henley, late commanding officer of the post at Cambridge, tried at the special general Court-Martial, whereof Brig. Gen. Glover was President, accused by Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne of a general tenor of language and conduct heinously criminal as an officer, and unbecoming a man; of the most indecent, violent, vindictive severity against unarmed men, and of intentional murder. The Court, after mature consideration, are of opinion that the charge against Col. Henley is not supported, and that he be discharged from his arrest. The General approves the opinion of the Court; thanks them for their unwearied endeavours to investigate the truth ; and orders Col. Henley to resume his command at Cambridge immediately. The General thinks it to be his duty on this occasion to observe, that although the conduct of Lieut. Gen. Bur goyne, (as prosecutor against Col. Henley) in the course of the foregoing trial, in his several speeches and pleas, may be warranted by some precedents in British Courts- Martial, yet as it is altogether novel in the proceedings of any general Court-Martial in the army of the United States of America, whose rules and articles of war direct that the Judge- Advocate-General shall prosecute in the name of the United States ; and as a different practice tends to render Courts-Martial both tedious and expensive — he does protest against this instance being drawn into precedent in future." 144 7th. — A British soldier at Cambridge stabbed one of the American guard. 18th. — Intelligence was received from Gov. Cook,1 that three frigates and twenty-three sail of transports sailed from Newport, on Sunday the 15th instant, standing to the north-east. Our General received a letter from the Presi dent of Congress, in which he observed, " I had the honour of receiving, by Mr. Closki, the 5th instant, your favour of the 10th ult. including a late correspondence with Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne; these were immediately reported to Con gress, and transmitted to the Board of War, from whence a report has not yet ascended ; therefore I have no partic ular commands relative to your said dispatch. I may, however, with propriety and pleasure intimate, that your conduct towards the British General and his dependents receives the continued approbation of Congress, if I may be permitted to make this conclusion from the general sentiments of the Members." 23d. — Just before noon, Gen. Lincoln arrived in Boston from Albany; his leg was recovering fast, but he was still very lame, and was conveyed from place to place on a move able bed, with handles, which was fixed on the runners of his sleigh, with a canopy and curtains, and was convenient also to remove into the house, &c. In this was blended in genuity and convenience. 28th. — Intelligence was received that the British trans ports, destined to take away the troops of the Convention, had arrived at Holmes's Hole; and the next day, March 1st, that they had arrived at Cape Harbour, Province- Town, Cape Cod. But Gen. Burgoyne was not now to de part. March 8th. — A cartel arrived from Cape Cod, with the following letter to Gen. Burgoyne : 1 Nicholas Cooke (1717-1782), Governor of R. I., 1775-78. 145 Juno, Cape Cod Harbour, 4th March, 1778. " Sir, I take the earliest opportunity, by Lieut. Carter, in the Haarlem cartel, to inform you of the arrival of the trans ports under my charge, and that I am appointed by the Viscount Howe, to receive you and your suit on board the Juno, under my command, for your conveyance to Eng land, when you shall be at liberty to embark separately, or together with the troops, as you will let me know in return to be your intention. And I am to acquaint you that I will move the Juno to Nantasket Road, for facilitating jour embarkation, if you will please to inform me of your having negotiated an agreement to such effect, upon faith duly pledged, that no insult shall be offered in the mean time to any of the ships of war, or other ships and vessels, appointed for fulfilling the purpose of the Convention, and distinguished by flags of truce, in testimony of the restric tion they are under from committing any acts of hostility. You are otherwise to take your passage in the Haarlem, in order to your being received on board the Juno, in Cape Cod Harbour. Inclosed is a list of the transports, with their tonnage, that you may be able to settle the proper arrangement of the troops destined for Europe; for every thing else I refer you to our meeting on board the Juno, where I have a number of private letters for you, Gen. Phillips, and Col. Kingston, and a large box of letters for the army. I am, &c. (Signed) Hugh Dalrymple. Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne." Gen. Burgoyne having written an answer to Capt. Dalrymple, and submitted it for inspection, requested our General to send it down by the cartel ; which he did under the following cover : 146 Head-Quarters, Boston, March 10, 1778. " Sir, Inclosed are sundry letters from Lieut. Gen. Bur goyne, by which you will learn his present situation. Although I wish on every occasion to extend the ut most generosity to the gentlemen of the army, yet to al low letters to pass unopened would be betraying the trust reposed in me. Therefore any idea of granting such an in dulgence cannot be admitted. If any advantage in the economy of expense to the government of Great Britain may be derived from land ing any overplus of provisions from the fleet, for the use of the troops of the Convention, I have not the least objection to it; but wish you would ascertain the matter as soon as possible. I rest assured that whilst your vessels enjoy perfect security under the sanction of their flags, not the least mo lestation or inconvenience will happen to any of our ves sels or inhabitants. I do myself the pleasure to send down to the flag a tur key, sent here by Gen. Burgoyne. I am, &c. (Signed) W. Heath. Capt. Dalrymple." Many people having grown jealous that the troops of the Convention had collected and secreted arms in the bar racks, they could not be quieted until the matter was ascer tained; and on the 18th, our General ordered a strict search to be made, when nothing was found but the offi cer's fusees, to which by the Convention they had a right. A wag, coming from the barracks, was asked if anything was found; he answered, "Yes — in one of the rooms a large brass mortar." This spread, and was alarming to be sure. The fact was, that in one of the rooms there was a large bell-metal pestle and mortar, for family use. Jeal- 147 ousy, like the other passions, although a virtue in itself, may exceed its bounds ; and when it does, " trifles, light as air, to jealous minds are strong as proofs of holy writ." Capt. Dalrymple wrote to Gen. Burgoyne again, on the 15th, and proposed to put the spare provisions on board one of the flags, and send them up to Boston harbour. But on the 23d, Capt. Braithwait of the Centurion wrote the General that he had arrived with orders from Viscount Howe for the men-of-war and transports with the provis ions on board them to return to Rhode Island, which they did accordingly. 7th. — General Lincoln left Boston for Hingham; our General accompanied him as far as Milton. 12th. — Intelligence was received that a 40 gun ship had arrived, at New London laden with with clothing for the United States. 18th. — A detachment of Col. Henley's regiment marched out of Boston for the army. 19th. — Gen. Burgoyne having again applied to Congress for leave to go to England himself, they now gave him lib erty. This was joyous to the General, and he wrote our General that he had assured himself that there would be nothing thrown in the way on his part, and wished for his passports. The President of Congress, in his letter to our General, by the same express, informed him that it was late in the evening when the resolve, granting Gen. Bur goyne leave to depart, passed, and nothing was said re- spe€ting the settlement of the accounts before his depart ure; but that it was fully his opinion that the former re solve should be strictly observed; for Congress had before resolved, that neither he nor the troops of the Convention should depart, before the accounts were settled and paid. Our General, therefore, told Gen. Burgoyne that this must first be done, and that then he should meet with no delay : on this he hesitated, and then asked how the accounts were to be settled? He was answered — Strictly conformable to the resolves of Congress. He then asked if Congress could 148 be serious in their resolution, requiring in specie the same sum which they had expended in paper money. Our Gen eral replied that he supposed that honourable body were ser ious in all their resolutions. He then replied that this was unjust, for the odds was double; and appealed to our Gen eral to say whether he thought it just himself : Our Gen eral answered, that as an executive officer, it was not for him to judge or determine whether the orders of his super iors were just or not. General Burgoyne replied that was true. He was then told, that if he did not choose to pay for the supplies, the act allowed him to replace them, in qual ity and quantity ; and this seemed to remove his objections. After further discussion the two Generals pledged their faith and sacred honour to each other, in which they both had the fullest confidence, that Gen. Burgoyne should pro ceed to Rhode Island, accompanied by such officers as our General might think proper to send, to whom Gen. Bur goyne should pay in specie the amount of supplies fur nished in the Quarter-Master's department; and that he should forward in vessels bearing flags, provisions of the different species they had received, within a certain num ber of days stipulated ; that no advantage should be taken by delay occasioned by stress of weather; that a box of gold, as a pledge for any deficiencies in the provisions, should be deposited with our General, the balance of which, after the full settlement of the accounts, to be paid to the senior officer of the troops of the Convention. April 2d. — Gen. Burgoyne came into Boston, and dined at head-quarters ; and before he took leave of our General, observed, " I know your situation, Sir, and the difficulty of obtaining many foreign necessaries you may want or wish. If you will give me a memorandum, on my arrival in England I will with great pleasure forward them to you." Our General thanked him for his politeness, but was careful not to mention any, choosing rather to suffer with his fellow-countrymen the necessities of the times, than to avail himself of so exclusive a favour. 149 5th. — Between 11 and 12 o'clock General Burgoyne left Cambridge for Rhode Island, accompanied by Colonel Pollard and Samuel Barrett, Esq. 8th. — The Raleigh frigate, it was learnt, had arrived at Portsmouth, (N. H.) A part of the Convention troops were ordered to be re moved to Rutland, in the county of Worcester, and tem porary barracks were erected for the purpose. 15th. — A division of the Convention troops marched for Rutland under escort of a detachment of militia, com manded by Major Read. Our General received a letter from the President of Congress, dated the 4th instant, in which he observed, " Yesterday I had the honour of pre senting to Congress your favours of the 21st and 24th of March; and, although I have received no particular com mands relative to their several contents, I am warranted by the general voice of Members to intimate, that you have received the applause of the House for your determination respecting the adjustment of account* with General Bur goyne." 18th. — Mr. Barrett returned from Rhode Island, accom panied by a British Commissary, Major Morrison, who was sent on by Gen. Pigot, to negotiate a plan for the future supply of the troops of the Convention. 19th. — About 2 o'clock P. M. a wagon arrived from Rhode Island with a large sum of money, received in dis charge of the accounts, and for the troops of the Conven tion. The same day, Mr. Dean1 arrived from France, with the highly important intelligence that the Court of France had acknowledged the Independency of the United States of America, and a treaty of alliance was concluded. 22d.— Five sail of victuallers arrived in the lower har bour from Rhode Island, with provisions, for a replace of those supplied the troops of the Convention. 1 Silas Deane. 150 28th.— The British hand-bill for quieting America, as it was called, was received at Boston. It was forwarded from Connecticut, where it had been sent by Governor Tryon — Governor Trumbull had made a most magnani mous reply. 30th. — A valuable prize was sent into Boston, laden with dry goods, teas, flour, &c. May 4th. — Several French ships had arrived with goods and stores from France for the United States. 5th. — The French frigate Nymphe, Capt. Senneville, ar rived in Boston harbour, and sailed out again on the 16th. 23d. — Certain intelligence was received, that the French Ambassador left England about the 20th of the preceding March, and that the English Ambassador had returned to England. 30th. — The British made an excursion to Tiverton and Little Compton, and did some damage. Our General concluded with Gen. Pigot a system for the future supply of the troops of the Convention, by sending provisions from Rhode Island. This mode tended to the increase of provisions in the States, and the easier supply of our own troops. The plan was submitted to Congress, who were pleased to honour it with their approbation, which they expressed in the following resolution: In Congress, May 22d, 1778. " Resolved, That Congress approve of Maj. Gen. Heath's conduct relative to the proposals made by Maj. Gen. Pigot, for supplying with provisions the troops who surrendered prisoners under the Convention of Saratoga. That the President be directed to inform Maj. Gen. Heath, that Congress expect that all assistance afforded to the enemy, in unloading, storing, or transporting pro visions for the support of the Convention prisoners, be paid for in solid coin, agreeably to the spirit of their resolution of the 19th of December last." The Convention troops complained exceedingly of this 151 discrimination in payment, because it was notorious that there was a considerable difference between paper money and specie ; indeed, at first view, it seems scarcely reconci lable on the principles of justice and equity; but when the grounds on which the resolve of the 19th of Dec. 1777 is predicated are considered, it seems to place the matters in a different light. — It is expressed as follows : — In Congress, Dec. 9th, 1777. " Whereas Sir William Howe, Commander in Chief of his Britannic Majesty's forces, has required that provis ions should be sent in, for the subsistence of the American prisoners in his possession, and for the purchase of such necessaries as they may stand in need of, and has prohib ited the circulation of the money struck by the authority of these States, within such parts of the country as are at present subjected to his power, whereby great difficulties have occurred in relieving the distresses of the American prisoners; and whereas large sums of continental bills of credit have been counterfeited and issued by the agents, emissaries and abettors of Sir W. Howe, — Resolved, That the accounts of all provisions and other necessaries, which already have been, or which hereafter may be supplied by the public to prisoners in the power of these States, shall be discharged by either receiving from the British Commissary of Prisoners, or any of his agents, provisions or other necessaries equal in quantity and kind to what have been supplied ; or the amount thereof in gold or silver, at the rate of four shillings and six-pence sterling for every dollar of the currency of these States; and that all these accounts be liquidated and discharged, previous to the release of any prisoners to whom provisions or other necessaries shall have been supplied. Extract from the Minutes. (Signed) C. Thomson." By the foregoing it appears that the British were allowed 152 to replace any and all the supplies which were furnished to them, and in that way might make all the savings in their power; and certainly they ought to be checked, if they attempted to destroy that currency on which the States had solely to rely for the prosecution of the war, which had been forced upon them by this same power. June 17th. — A British officer was shot by an American centinel on Prospect Hill, the officer attempting to pass, contrary to the standing orders. The centinel was imme diately relieved and put under guard, and as soon as the of ficial account of the event was received by our General, he wrote the following letter to Gen. Phillips : Head-Quarters, Boston, June 17, 1778, n gIB 8 o'clock, P. M. I am at this moment informed than an officer of the Convention has been shot by one of our sentries. I have or dered the man into close confinement, and have directed the Town-Major to desire the Coroner of the county of Mid dlesex to summon a Jury of Inquiry to sit on the body; and I desire that it may not be removed until that step be taken. I can only say, Sir, that you may be assured that I will take every step in my power which honour and justice require. Your letters of this date were handed to me by the per son who brought the disagreeable news of the officer's be ing shot. I will answer them to-morrow. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, (Signed) W. Heath. Maj. Gen. Phillips." A few minutes after our General had sent his letter, he received the following from Gen. Phillips : Cambridge, June 17, 1778. " Murder and death has at length taken place. An offi cer, riding out from the barracks on Prospect Hill, has been shot by an American centinel. I leave the horrors incident to that bloody disposition, which has joined itself 153 to rebellion in these Colonies, to the feelings of all Europe. I do not ask for justice, for I believe every principle of it is fled from this Province. I demand liberty to send an officer to Gen. Sir Henry Clinton, by way of the head-quarters of Gen. Washington, with my report of this murder. (Signed) W. Phillips, Maj. Gen. Maj. Gen. Heath." The next morning our General wrote the following to Gen. Phillips: Head-Quarters, Boston, June 18, 1778. " Sir, Immediately upon my receiving the disagreeable re port, the last evening, that an officer of the Convention had been shot by an American centinel, and that the centinel was confined, I ordered him to be closely kept so, and the Coroner of the county of Middlesex to be certified, that a Jury of Inquiry might be summoned to sit on the body of the officer. Decency and the utmost attention, in any coun try, could not have done more. A few minutes after I had dispatched the officer with the foregoing orders, I received your letter, couched in such terms that I am at a loss what epithets to give it. Were it even certain that the shooting of the officer was an act of the most deliberate wilful murder, why should you charge these free independent States with a bloody disposition and with rebellion, and this State in particular as void of every principle of jus tice? Although I ever had and still have a personal regard for you, and wish in every respect to treat you with the utmost generosity yet that duty which I owe to the hon our and dignity of the United States will not allow me to pass unnoticed such expressions as are contained in your letter; and I cannot put any other interpretation upon them, than that they are a violent infraction of your pa role, most sacredly given. I do conceive it to be my duty, 154 and I do hereby restrict you to the limits of your house, gardens and yard, and to the direct road from your quar ters to the quarters of the troops of the Convention, on Prospect and Winter Hills; expecting from you a parole, for propriety of conduct within those limits ; which if you refuse, I shall be under the necessity of ordering you to narrower limits, until I can obtain the pleasure of the Honourable the Congress, touching this matter, to whom I shall transmit your letter, and crave their directions. As to your demand of liberty for an officer to proceed to Sir Henry Clinton with a 'report of this murder,' as you are pleased to express yourself, I have only to reply, that as soon as the Coroner has taken an inquisition, in which all the evidence respecting this unhappy affair will be contained, I shall transmit a copy thereof to Congress ; and I shall have no objection to your sending a copy also to Sir Henry Clinton, by way of the head-quarters of his Excellency General Washington, (if his Excellency should approve of it) together with any just and decent represen tations which you may think necessary to make on this oc casion or any other, after I have examined such letters; but as to an officer's going to Sir Henry Clinton, it is alto gether unnecessary — so you will please to excuse my re fusal of it. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, (Signed) W. Heath, Major-General. P. S. I shall not at this time comment on the indelicate manner in which your letter is addressed. Maj. Gen. Phillips." " I, William Phillips, Major-General and senior officer of the troops under the restrictions of the Convention of Saratoga, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to remain in the quarters now assigned to me in Cambridge, in the State of Massa chusetts Bay, and at no time to exceed or pass the limits of the gardens and yards adjoining and belonging to said quarters, except in the road by the nearest and most 155 direct route from my said quarters to Prospect and Winter Hills, and the limits of said hills within the chain of sen tries — until it shall be permitted or ordered otherwise by the Continental General commanding in this State, his Ex cellency General Washington, or the Honourable Congress of the United States of America; and that I will not, di rectly or indirectly, give any intelligence to the enemies of the said United States, or either of them, or do or say any thing in opposition to or in prejudice of the measures and proceedings of any Congress for the said States, during my continuance here as aforesaid, or until I am duly ex changed or discharged. Given under my hand at Cambridge, this eighteenth day of June, 1778." Head-Quarters, Boston, June 18, 1778. "Sir, You will immediately repair to Cambridge, and wait upon Maj. Gen. Phillips : present him the letter addressed to him: After he has read the letter, present the pa role ; if he signs it, well ; if he refuses, you will please to inform him, that in consequence of the indecent, dis honourable, and highly insulting expressions in his letter of yesterday, against the honour and dignity of the Free, Sovereign, and Independent States of America, and in prejudice of the measures and proceedings of the Honour able the Congress — as it is my d)uty, so it is my express or ders, that he, the saidMaj. Gen. Phillips, be restricted to the limits of his house, yards and gardens, beyond which he is not to pass, until it be otherwise ordered ; and that you im mediately plant and continue by relief so many sentries as may be necessary to prevent his exceeding those limits. You will give orders that the sentries so planted observe a strict decorum and soldier-like behaviour, avoiding in sult, and behaving with becoming dignity. After which, 156 you will wait on the next senior officer, and acquaint him of Gen. Phillips being confined. I am, Sir, your most obedient servant, (Signed) W. Heath, Maj. Gen. Lieut. Col. Pollard, Dep. Adj. General." The same day Gen. Phillips wrote our General as fol lows : Cambridge, June 18, 1778, 3 o'clock, P. M. " Sir, Lieut. Brown of the 21st regiment, who was shot yes terday by an American centinel, died about midnight in the last night. I am informed some person, whom you have sent to ex amine the body, is now doing it; and, as I suppose every inspection of that sort will be over by to-morrow, I would propose to bury the corpse to-morrow evening. I am to de sire to know if you have any objection, and whether you have any particular intentions relating to the body of the murdered officer. If it is to be allowed Christian burial, I would wish to deposit it in the vault appropriated for strangers, in the Protestant church at Cambridge. In this case, I am to desire you will give the necessary permission for this purpose, and allow a sufficient number of men from the barracks to assist in carrying down the corpse from the barracks to the church. As I am totally ignorant to whom it may be necessary to apply for leave to open the church, it obliges me to give you this trouble ; and I hope, if permission is granted, that it may be done so fully as will prevent the sanguinary peo ple of this country from insulting and treating with indig nity the dead body of the unfortunate officer, who, in their rage, revengeful tempers, and barbarity, they have put to death. I am, Sir, Your most obedient and humble servant, (Signed) W. Phillips. Maj. Gen. Heath." 157 To this letter the following was returned: Head-Qtjarters, Boston, June 19, 1778. " Sir, Yours of yesterday afternoon was handed me the last evening; I most sincerely regret the unfortunate death of Lieut. Brown. As I apprehend the Coroner has taken his inquisi tion, or will do it this morning — which is in conformity to the laws of the land in that case made and provided, for the sole purpose of investigating the truth of facts — you not only have my permission, but request, that every mark of respect may be paid to the corpse of the deceased; and you have my permission also for such a number of non commissioned officers and privates to attend, as may be necessary to bear the corpse from the funeral house to the place of interment. I do not know under whose direction the church at Cambridge now is; but I have given orders to Maj. Hop kins and the Town-Major to afford every kind of assis tance in their power, and to inquire who has the direction, and to obtain permission. I have also given orders that decency be exhibited by our troops during the time of pro cession of interment, which the solemnity of so mournful an occasion points out as the duty of rational beings ; and from the universal respectful behaviour of the people of this country on such occasions, you may be sure that not the least insult will be offered. I am, Sir, your most obedient servant, (Signed) W. Heath. Maj. Gen. Phillips." 19th. — Gen. Phillips wrote another letter, as follows : Cambridge, June 19th, 1778. " Sir, I shalll not animadvert upon, nor answer any part of 158 your letter of yesterday, except what relates to your mean ing to restrict me to my house, garden and yards, and to the direct road from my quarters to the quarters of the troops of the Convention on Prospect and Winter Hills, and requiring my signing a new parole for my propriety of conduct within those limits. When by the treaty of Convention of Saratoga the offi cers were to be admitted on parole, it was clearly intended that a liberal interpretation was to be given of that agree ment; and, to use your own words, generous limits were to be granted. I will not deny that the limits have been suffi- cient- ^L;uai! I apprehend, Sir, that under no sense or explanation of the treaty, the officers were to be denied intercourse with the soldiers — indeed, there is an article particularly on that point; and by restricting me to my quarters, allowing me only the passage to the barracks by the direct road, you would have certainly have restricted me as you have done several other officers, from whom you have taken the bene fit of their parole, allowing for the distinction of my rank, having obtained a quarter instead of a barrack : it seemed therefore a very extraordinary proposal made to me that I should sign a parole under a restriction which deprived me of any advantage arising from my giving one, according to the article on that subject in the treaty of Convention of Saratoga; and on this consideration I refused it. You have, Sir, made me a prisoner in my quarters, un der a guard, and I am perfectly at ease about it — shall bear it, Sir, and any other violence of power which may happen to me, with more patience than you may suppose. I am very regardless about insults and injuries done me per sonally — I feel only, and then severely, when any are of fered to the troops I command. But, Sir, you attempt at much more than restricting my person ; for in a paper sent me this day, being your in structions to Lieut. Col. Pollard, dated June 18, 1778, you direct him, after he has planted centinels around my quar- 159 ters, that he is 'to wait on the next senior officer, and ac quaint him of General Phillips being confined.' I am to inform you, Sir, that, bearing the King's commission, I shall consider myself senior officer of the troops of the Convention ; and every officer of them will obey my orders as far as their present situation will allow. You may con fine my person, but you cannot have power to take from me my military place, nor my connexion with the Conven tion troops — it is too extravagant an idea to suppose you capable of ; so little can it be in the power of an individual to deprive me of the commission I hold, that were these Colonies really acknowledged Independent and Sovereign States, it would not be in the power of their government to deprive an officer of another nation of his military com mission, how far soever they might stretch and extend their power over his person. But, Sir, I must be allowed to de clare, that until the Colonies are acknowledged by Great Britain to be Independent Sovereign States, I cannot view them in any other light than that in which they are con sidered by Great Britain. As you will not allow me to send an officer to Sir Henry Clinton, I must request to take advantage of your express for sending my report and representations to him; and I will beg to know when I must send you my letters. I am, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant, (Signed) W. Phillips. Maj. Gen. Heath." To which the folloAving answer was returned the next day: Head-Quarters, Boston, June 20, 1778. " Sir, Another of your favours of yesterday was handed to me this morning. You may be assured that the reason of my restricting you to your quarters, the day before yester- 160 day, was personally no agreeable service. Duty to the hon our and dignity of my country made it indispensably necessary. Apprehending that so great a restriction from your former limits as I pointed out, might be construed by you a dissolution of your parole, I thought it necessary and also reasonable that you should give a new one. I wished that you might retain your quarters, and at the same time have a free intercourse with the troops who are quartered at a distance from you ; this distance is so considerable that a parole is necessary. I acknowledge that by the Conven tion, you are to be admitted on parole, and this parole is for propriety of conduct under such admittance; but that pa role being forfeited, by misconduct, ceases to be, and con finement in proportion to tbe offence, no breach of the Con vention, but fully justifiable upon every principle of reason and justice. It was never in my idea to take away your commission, or dissolve your connexion with the troops of the Conven tion; but, while under confinement, your power of acting might with propriety be suspended, so far as respected the transacting of public business between myself and you; but personal regard has prevented my going that length, any further than to notify the next officer of your con finement. I do not insist that you, as an officer in the British army, are obliged to view the Free, Independent and Sov ereign States of America in any other light than they are acknowledged by the government whose service you are in. But, under your present situation and circumstances, I do insist that you shall not openly insult the honour and dignity of these States with impunity. I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) W. Heath, Major-General. Maj. Gen. Phillips." 161 " Middlesex, ss. An inquest taken at Cambridge, within the said county of Middlesex, on the 18th of June, A. D. 1778, be fore Joel Smith, one of the Coroners for the county afore said, upon view of the body of Lieut. Richard Brown, one of the British officers (Charlestown, in the county afore said) then and there being dead, by oaths of William Howe, Benjamin Lock, John Brown, Ebenezer Steadman, Samuel Manning, Nathaniel Austin, Joseph Read, jun., James Hill, Thomas Barret, Benjamin Bar ker, Aaron Hill, Isaac Bradish, James Munro, Joseph Johnson, good and lawful men of Cam bridge aforesaid, who being charged and sworn to inquire for the sake of the government and people of the Massa chusetts Bay, when, and by what means, and how the said Richard Brown came to his death — upon their oath do say, that the said Richard Brown was shot with a fire-arm by the centinel in Charlestown, near Prospect Hill, be tween the hours of five and six P. M. on the 17th day of June, A. D. 1778, in attempting to pass the centinel with two women, after being properly challenged by said centi nel — and so came to death. JOEL SMITH, Coroner. Nathaniel Austin, James Munro, Joseph Read, jun. Joseph Johnson, James Hill, William Howe, Thomas Barret, Benjamin Lock, Benjamin Barker, John Brown, Aaron Hill, Ebenezer Steadman, Isaac Bradish, Samuel Manning, Cambridge, June 18, 1778." Extract of a letter from Major-General Heath to the President of Congress, dated Head-Quarters, Boston, June 19, 1778 : " Since my last, of the 9th instant, I have received the honour of yours of the 23d, by Capt. Nevers. 162 The day before yesterday, one of our centinels, posted at the foot of Prospect Hill, shot a Lieut. Richard Brown, of the troops of the Convention, for not stopping when re peatedly challenged, as he was riding out of the lines with two women. The orders given to the centinels being not to allow any officer without side-arms, or non-commissioned officer, private soldier, woman or child, without a written passport, to pass the chain of sentries. Immediately upon my receiving the report of the officer's being shot, and that the centinel was confined, I gave orders for his being kept so, and notice to be given to the Coroner of the county of Middlesex, that a Jury of Inquest might sit on the body for the investigation of the truth of facts ; at the same time I wrote to Maj. Gen. Phillips — I do myself the honour to inclose copy thereof, No. 1; a few minutes after, I received a paper from him, No. 2 ; the next morning I again wrote him, No. 3 ; and a parole, No. 4 ; and gave Col. Pollard writ ten orders for the delivery thereof, No. 5. Gen. Phillips refusing to sign the parole, Col. Pollard, in obedience to my orders, restricted him to the limits therein mentioned, and planted three centinels around the house and gardens ; in which state matters now remain." In Congress, July 1, 1778. " Resolved, That Congress approve of Maj. Gen. Heath's conduct respecting Maj. Gen. Phillips, consequent upon the death of Lieut. Richard Brown, of the troops of the Convention. Extract from the Minutes. Charles Thomson, Secretary." The whole of the foregoing correspondence was pub lished by order of Congress ; and our General was informed that it was left for him to conduct towards the British Gen eral, as to the continuance of his arrest, as he might judge the honour of the United States required. Gen. Phillips continuing to exhibit the same temper, or it rather grow- 163 ing upon him, he was continued in his arrest until the troops of the Convention were ordered to be removed to Charlottesville in Virginia. It has before been observed, that the officers had certain articles prescribed to them, for their government in quarters, and that these were drawn into the parole, and subscribed by them. If any abuses took place, a Court of Inquiry was directed to investigate the complaints, and report to our General ; thus giving the accused officers an opportunity to exculpate their conduct, if it was in their power; and no officer could wish more than our General to treat them with generosity and in dulgence, as far as was compatible with good order and discipline. But notwithstanding the fairness of this mode of procedure, Gen. Phillips forbid the officers appearing before any Court so appointed; and on the 18th ult. Mr. Bibby, the Deputy-Adjutant-General to the troops of the Convention, came into a Court of Inquiry and declared the following, which, in order to have the whole together, we now retrospect. " Maj. Gen. Phillips will not permit any officer under his command to be brought before a Court of Inquiry of the American troops, for the purpose of scrutinizing their con duct ; but if any complaints are lodged against any British officers, and Maj. Gen. Heath shall desire their conduct to be inquired into, Maj. Gen. Phillips will give such orders as are customary in such cases among the British troops. By order of Maj. Gen. Phillips : (Signed) Thos. Bibby, Dep. Adj. Gen. Monday, May 18, 1778." The same day, Gen. Phillips sent a letter to our General, expressive of the same sentiments; to which the following answer was sent to him. Head-Quarters, Boston, May 19, 1778. " Sir, 1 Your favour of yesterday came to hand the last even ing; and, I must confess, contained matter novel and sur- 164 prising to me. What ideas of a co-partnership in command you have entertained, I cannot tell. From the beginning, I have found a disposition in the senior officer of the Con vention to assume the right and authority of trying and punishing offenders for breaches of my orders. This I ever have and ever shall view in no other light than that of insult. As such, I represented it to his Excellency Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne, whose good sense and thorough knowledge of discipline led him, in a letter to me of the 13th Jan. to yield the matter in the following words : " I do not mean to deny that you have a right to take justice into your own hands." Indeed it is a subject concerning which, having heretofore said and wrote very fully, I shall not at this time dwell long upon. As to agreement or co-partnership in command, it is absurd. In military command there must be one supreme head ; at present, the Honourable Congress have honoured me with the command of this de partment, and I imagined that no officer within its limits would dare dispute it. My orders, as I have repeatedly heretofore declared, shall ever be founded on the principles of honour, reason and justice, and not to infringe those delicate principles in others ; so I again declare that such my orders shall not be broken or disputed, by any officer or soldier placed un der my direction, with impunity. The matter of command is no hidden mystery; the usage and customs of nations are known. The celebrated Vattel, Puffendorf and Gro tius, with whose writings I dare say you are acquainted, elegantly explain how an army that submits to another, whether the conditions are more or less honorary to them selves, are to conduct whilst they remain within the limits of the victors' camp, or jurisdiction of their country. But I shall not spend time to reason on a subject which would reflect dishonour on myself to allow even to be disputed. Therefore, to sum up all in a few words — that, as I am de termined to treat the troops of the Convention with strict justice and generosity, so I am determined that all offend- 165 ers against my standing orders of the garrison shall be brought to proper punishment; that I will not allow the senior officer of those troops to try or punish for any of fence against my orders; and, that the truth may at all times be properly investigated, I shall, from time to time, when occasion requires, appoint Courts of Inquiry for that purpose; and such as presume to dispute or counteract them, I shall duly notice. I am, &c. (Signed) W. Heath, Major-General. Maj. Gen. Phillips." Gen. Phillips finding that he could not get any thing by assault, he next tried his skill in attempting to sap, with the policy of friendship ; he therefore wrote another letter of the same date, under the name of " Private." ,( ~ Monday, May 18th, 1778. I have, this morning, written to you a letter upon public matters. I will now assure you, that I am sorry that my earnest desire of preserving a communication of intelligence between you and I, does not meet your con sent ; and I will lament that you will attend to the sudden reports you receive, so fully, and act upon them, without that good-humoured attention to me, which I had hoped and have endeavoured should subsist between us. You and I are nearly of an age — I will not dispute understand ings with you; but I certainly am an older soldier, and must necessarily know the customs of armies. Allow me to assure you, that the manner with which things are taken up sometimes deviates from military rule. It is a fixed custom to go from the head, downwards; and, when an Ensign offends against order, the General does not con descend to altercate with him, but sends his orders, his desire, or his opinion, to the commanding officers; and, in your sending messages to young officers, it injures your own consequence, and certainly hurts mine. Believe me, 166 that I am strict against, any breach of orders, and will never suffer it to pass uncensured. I allow, the two officers have behaved ill, and I will punish them; but the getting the countersign was an effect of good humour and simpli city in an American soldier. Let me once more request of you to recollect your own situation, and it will put mine in a clear view to you. Whenever you have reports against any of our troops, let me know them, and I will give instant attention to them; but you will, I am sure, immediately feel that sending a threat to two officers, that you would send them on board a prison-ship, and never informing me wherefore, was not strictly conformable to good humour or good discipline. I am, with a very hearty desire of preserving harmony and order, and with much personal regard, Yours, &c. (Signed) W.Phillips. Maj. Gen. Heath." To which the following answer was returned : Head-Quarters, Boston, May 19, 1778. " Sir, Having, in my other letter of this date, answered yours of yesterday, I now reply to your favour of the same date, which you are pleased to style "private." I can assure you, Sir, that no person living wishes to act with good hu mour more than I do ; or would take more pains to culti vate harmony and a good understanding. But in the pres ent case, you must not expect that I shall allow myself, either by frowns or flatteries, to give up the dignity of com mand reposed in me. I wish, I am determined, to extend every act of gener osity towards the officers of the Convention which is com patible with the safety and honour of my country. I shall not take up matters suddenly, or proceed rashly, unless cir cumstances shall render it unavoidably necessary; and al- 167 though you may be possessed of a greater share of under standing than I am, and an older soldier, — yet I have en deavoured to acquire a knowledge of my duty, and the cus toms of armies and nations. I am not conscious of any de viations from those rules or customs in general adopted by them. The General who commands is undoubtedly the foun tain of power, and all orders should descend from him through the proper officers, until they are communicated to the lowest order of the army ; and that commander who disputes with, or threatens young officers, undoubtedly les sens his consequence, and will soon become contemptible in the eyes of an army. Nothing of this was in the late transactions, that I know of: having received a report of the conduct of the two officers, I ordered them to be con fined to their quarters, and appointed a Court of Inquiry to examine into the grounds of the complaint, that I might have a clear understanding of the affair, and order accord ingly. In all cases where you or the troops of the Conven tion are immediately concerned in the orders, I have al ways directed that you should be served with a copy. As to any threatenings being sent to the two officers, of con fining them on board a guard-ship, I know nothing of it. The main difficulty seems to arise from your apprehen sion, that you are to try and punish all offenders against my orders. Here, Sir, notwithstanding your knowledge and age in soldiery, you much mistake, and cannot support those your pretensions by any rule or authority, civil or military. The moment you piled your arms, and marched off the ground, you became subject to the standing orders of the victor; and in every jurisdiction through which you marched or where you remain, are subject to all the orders and laws of the place; and such as violate them are obnox ious to punishment. The law and custom of nations ex plicitly tell us who are to try and punish : and although I do not in the least doubt your ready disposition to in quire into, and even to punish offenders against my orders 168 yet when you attempt it it is such an indignity offered to my authority, that you may be assured it ever will raise my resentment ; and if it did not, I am confident that your self (at least hereafter) and all military men would des pise me for my insensibility. In a word, Sir, cultivate those principles of obedience to orders among the officers in your situation, recommended and inculcated by the cus tom and usage of nations, and dictated by reason — and you may depend, that I shall exert myself to make your situation as agreeable as possible ; and you may be also as sured, that I never shall require that of the troops of the Convention which, in the opinion of the just and wise in any country, shall reflect dishonour on them. With the strongest desire to cultivate and maintain harmony, and to treat you with respect, and with much personal regard, I am, &c. (Signed) W. Heath. Maj. Gen. Phillips." The same feelings which had great weight in the begin ning of the war, continued for some time, namely, that Great Britain was one of the greatest and most powerful nations in the world, in arts, and arms; while the Ameri cans were yet their Colonies, young, weak, and but barely civilized, ignorant of the world, and especially so of arts and of arms. Hence we see it so frequently breaking out, (until experience had taught them a different opinion) There was frequently, as in the atmosphere, placid inter vals; but whenever any cross wind happened to blow, (and there is no season or circumstances without them) then instantly appeared those ideas of self -superiority and con tempt for the Americans, which was the true cause of many uncomfortable hours. Mankind have the same passions; the difference lies in some riding with a double curb, while others give the reins. This Convention business was a heavy task for our Gen eral, and the whole subject would form an entertaining vol ume of itself ; we are now circumscribed by our limits, and 169 have only given a small specimen for mankind to form an opinion for themselves. In all the letters or conversation which was had on the occasion, we find scarcely a reflection cast by our General on the British nation, the cause in which they were engaged, or against any who were fortun ate or unfortunate; but a unifrom desire to make those placed under his orders as comfortable as circumstances would admit; at the same time an unshaken determination, a perseverant watchfulness, with decent language, to de fend the cause and honour of his own country, by argu ments supported by the customs and maxims of the civilized world. The hundreds of letters on file are all proofs of this ; and in many instances it was politely acknowledged. The two following letters of different dates, are some of the specimens Major Harnage had his lady with him. Cambridge, October 30th, 1778. " Sir, With great pleasure I acknowledge the favour of your obliging letter; and Mrs. Harnage joins me, with Capt. Hawker, in returning to you our sincere thanks for your kind representation of us, and solicitation in our favour, to the Honourable Congress. With your leave, we shall with patience wait the re sult ; and, let the Congress determine in what manner they please, our obligations to you, Sir, will be ever acknowl edged. Believe me, Sir, with respect, Your obliged and humble servant, Henry Harnage. Maj. Gen. Heath." Cambridge, June 10, 1779. " Sir, Being this moment informed that you are about to quit Boston, I must beg leave, previous to your departure, to trouble you with these our acknowledgments, for the civility and attention you have been pleased to shew us; and to assure you that Mrs. Harnage, Capt. Hawker and 170 myself shall ever retain a due sense of all favours, by which you have kindly endeavoured to alleviate, and make easy the restraints and disagreeable circumstances that un avoidably attend our present situation. We hope you will mention us to the gentleman who is to succeed to the command in the Eastern Department. Wishing you all personal happiness, I remain with re spect, Sir, your most obedient and Obliged humble servant, Henry Harnage. The Hon. Maj. Gen. Heath." 29th. — A Spanish xebeck and a French cutter arrived at Boston, with dispatches from their respective Courts, which were forwarded to Congress. 30th. — Certain intelligence was received, that the Brit ish had left Philadelphia. July 9th. — Intelligence was received, that a warm action happened on the 28th ult. between Gen. Washington's and Gen. Clinton's armies, near Monmouth court-house, in the Jersies. Gen. Clinton, having taken the resolution to move from Philadelphia to New- York, through the Jersies, com menced his movements accordingly, encumbered with an immense train of stores and baggage, which occupied some miles in length; and these are the greatest incumbrance to a General on a march of danger, from an attack of his opponent, to which he can be exposed. Gen. Washington was no sooner apprised of this inten tion and movement of the British General, than he made his arrangements accordingly, crossed the Delaware, and pushed detached corps forward to obstruct the advance, gall the flanks, and fall on the rear of the enemy, while he moved on with the body of his army. By the 27th, Gen. Clinton had got on as far as Monmouth, and Gen. Wash ington's detached troops were on his flanks, and close on his rear. Here the British General took a wise resolution, to make a stand with a part of his best troops, while he pushed on his baggage through the difficult defiles, under 171 the careful and experienced hands of Gen. Knyphausen. General Washington acting with equal skill and equal bravery, made every arrangement which the moment called for. On the morning of the 28th, he ordered Maj. Gen. Lee to attack the enemy's rear, himself moving on briskly to support him ; but to his surprise, as he advanced on, he met Lee's troops retreating and the enemy impetu ously pursuing. Here was Gen. Washington seen in all his splendor ; for this critical situation is the orb in which he shines the brightest. He rallied the retreating troops ; he inspired them by precept and by example ; and the misfor tune of the morning was considerably retrieved. The Americans fought bravely, and so did the British. After hard fighting, in a most intense hot day, when scores died of the heat, and drinking too freely of cold water when they could find it, both armies remained on the ground. The Americans determined to recommence the action early on the next morning; but Gen. Clinton, find ing that his baggage had struggled pretty well through the defiles, and had got tolerably well advanced, took the ad vantage of the cool of the night to slip off, unperceived by the Americans, and got to ground where he was safe. Some sharp words took place between Gen. Washington and Maj. Gen. Lee, as the one advanced and the other re treated, which issued in the arrest, trial and suspension of the latter. Gen. Washmgton reported to Congress, that the Americans buried of the British 4 officers and 245 pri vates; among the former, the Hon. Col. Monckton, (who was a brave and experienced officer) and that there were a few prisoners. The American loss; killed, 1 Lieutenant- Colonel, 1 Major, 3 Captains, 2 Lieutenants, 1 Sergeant, 52 rank and file — wounded, 2 Colonels, 8 Captains, 4 First- Lieutenants, 2 Second-Lieutenants, 1 Ensign, 1 Adjutant, 8 Sergeants, 1 Drummer, 120 rank and file; missing, 5 Ser jeants, 126 rank and file; of the artillery, one First Lieutenant, 7 Matrosses, and 1 Bombardier were killed — one Captain, 1 Sergeant, 1 Corporal, 1 Gunner, 172 and 10 Matrosses wounded — one Matross missing — six horses killed, and two wounded. Both Generals undoubt edly have much credit for their conduct in this action. Gen. Clinton's object being to reach New- York with his bag gage, &c. obtained this victory, with the loss which he sustained. Gen. Washington's conduct was well calcu lated for victory on his side; and how far he would have succeeded, had it not been for the misfortune of the morn ing, none can tell. This misfortune began by exposing the American advanced troops, in line, on the side of the field where they were cannonaded by the British, who at the same time wisely exposed only their artillery to that of the Americans. It is to be remembered, that men may be led on to action in the face of a cannonade, before which they will not stand; the point of decision is in the mind; while advancing, although galled by the fire of their opponents, the dead and wounded are left behind them as they fall, and the troops feel an ardour for arriving in a few minutes at a point where they can use their own arms, to retaliate for the injury they sustain. But when men are placed open to the fire of the artillery of their enemy, at such a distance as to prevent the use of their own arms in their defence, the dead and wounded fall and lie among them, or are drawn away, and every groan they make is heard. The troops soon conceive that they are placed as marks to be shot at ; while the greater policy of the enemy keeps their column or line out of the rake of their cannon; the mind gives way and retreat will be inevitable. This was expe rienced in this instance, and the fairest hopes of a noble on set in a few minutes blasted; and these were some of the best troops in the army too. It was here that the firm Col. Wesson had his back peeled of its muscles, almost from shoulder to shoulder, by a cannon-ball. The confidence of the troops could not be fully recovered, until they saw the presence of their beloved General. 18th. — Intelligence was received that the Count D'Es taing had arrived, with the fleet under his command, off the 173 * Capes of Delaware. The fleet consisted of 12 sail of the line, and 4 frigates. Off the coast of Virginia, they took a privateer, fitted out of New- York, of 26 guns— a ship, bound from New-Providence to London — re-capturedj a French snow, laden with dry goods, and drove a British ship of war on shore. 19th. — Intelligence was received, that about 2000 men, said to be invalids, had arrived at Rhode Island from New- York. 21st. — Intelligence was received, that a body of refu gees and Indians had destroyed the town of Wyoming, on the Susquehanna, and butchered many of the inhabitants. The same day, it was learnt, that Gen. Washington had crossed Hudson's River with the main army, except Gen. Wayne's brigade — that Count D'Estaing had appeared off Sandy Hook — that the inhabitants of New-York were in great consternation, and that the Marquis de la Fayette, with Glover's and Varnum's brigades, were on their march for Providence. The British were very busy in fortifying Rhode Island. 25th and 26th.— Sent for Providence 43,000 flints, five tons hard bread, a quantity of dry fish, &c. and sent a large number of the large flat-bottomed boats to Weymouth ; they were to be conveyed, taking advantage of the river, to the vicinity of Rhode Island. Half of Col. Crafts' regiment of State artillery were ordered to Tiverton ; the other half of the regiment of artillery, and a draft from the militia, to the number of 3000 men, including 1000 before ordered, were to march and reinforce Maj. Gen. Sullivan in the State of Rhode Island. On the 29th, at noon, the Count D'Estaing's squadron came to anchor off Point Judith, and at evening stretched a line from that Point to Secunnet. 31st. — The regiment of State artillery, with 6 brass 4- pounders and 2 brass howitzers, marched for Tiverton ; and the next day the marine mortar was sent on, slung under two pair of stout cart-wheels. The British sloop of war 174 Kingfisher, a row-galley and a sloop, stationed near Se- cunnet1, upon the approach of the French frigate were run on shore by their own crews, set on flre, and left to burn and blow up. Maj. Bumstead's2 company of Boston artillery, with two brass field-pieces, and Lieut. Dunnel3, with a detachment of the Continental artillery, with two field-pieces, marched for Rhode Island, and the militia and volunteers were on their march that way ; and large quanti ties of military stores and provisions were going from hence. August 10th. — Major-General Hancock, with his suit, went for Rhode Island, to take the command of the militia. The same morning, Gen. Sullivan made a landing on the island without opposition. About the same time the Count D'Estaing, with his squadron, passed the British batteries at Newport, when there was a brisk cannonade on both sides. Many of the shot struck in the town, and the inhabi tants were in much consternation, not knowing in what place they were safe. A shot entered the door of the house of Mrs. Mason, a widow lady, a little above the floor : as the family were passing from room to room not knowing where the next shot might strike, young Mr. Mason, pass ing through the entry, found the black man of the family sitting with his back against the shot-hole in the door ; on being asked why he sat there, he answered, " Master, you never know two shot to go in the same place." Under this idea he was tranquil. Lord Howe's fleet appeared in the offing, consisting of 8 sail of the line, and 12 frigates. 11th. — The Count came to sail, and stood out, and the British fleet stood off — the wind very fresh. 13th. — A most severe storm of wind and rain, which stripped many trees of their fruit, and tore others up by the roots, &c. 1 Seaconnet. 2 Thomas Bumstead. 3 Zaccheus DunneU, 2nd Lieut. 3rd Con tinental artillery. J 75 The troops on Rhode Island, under the command of Gen. Sullivan, were on the 11th, 10,122, including officers, ex clusive of some volunteers from New Hampshire, and other corps, arranged as follows : Varnum's brigade, including officers, 1,037 Glover's, 1,131 Cornell's, 1,719 Greene's, 1,626 Lovell's, 1,158 Titcomb's, 957 Livingston's advance, 659 West's reserve, 1,025 Artillery, 810 Total, 10,122 These were encamped at and near Quaker-Hill. The storm destroyed a great number of cartridges, owing to the badness of the boxes. A fresh supply was sent on from Boston. 15th. — The army advanced, and in the afternoon arrived within two miles of the enemy, without the least opposi tion. Gen. Washington, with the main army, was at the White Plains, in the State of New York, said to be about 20,000 strong. Seventeen transports with troops from Gen. Howe's army at New York, sailed for Rhode Island ; but finding the French squadron in the way, could not come to the place. On the evening of the 16th, Gen. Sullivan took posses sion of some high grounds which commanded the enemy's works on their right, and was not discovered until morn ing, when they began to cannonade the Americans, but did them no damage, which was continued the next day with out injury. On the night of the 17th, the covered way was nearly completed, and also two batteries of cannon. The enemy fired 300 or 400 shot, but did no other damage than slightly wounding two men. 176 19th— The American works were advanced nearer to the enemy, and on the 20th, they had one man killed and two wounded by the enemy's cannon. In the afternoon the Count D'Estaing returned to Newport — his own ship, the Languedoc, was totally dismasted in the storm, and lost her rudder. In this situation, an English 50 gun ship of Lord Howe's squadron came across her, and got under her stern, where she did the Languedoc some small damage; but on wearing the Languedoc, so as to bring some of her heavy metal to bear, the Englishman bore away. The Marseilles, a 74, lost her foremast in the storm, and the Cesar, a 74, parted from the squadron. 22d. — In the afternoon, the Cesar came to anchor in the light-house channel, (Boston lower harbour). After part ing from the squadron in the storm, she fell in with a Brit ish 50 gun ship, with whom she was engaged for near three glasses1, and would have taken her, had not some other English ships hove in sight. The Cesar had 160 men killed and wounded, about 60 oi which were of the former; and the Captain2 among the latter, who lost an arm. On his being brought up to Boston, our General immediately paid him a visit, and expressed to him his regret for the arm he had lost ; to which the Captain replied, although very weak through the great loss of blood he had sustained — that he was ready to lose his other arm in the cause of the Ameri cans. Remember this, ye Americans, in future times ! The same day, the enemy threw 2 or 300 shells at our troops on Rhode Island ; two men only were wounded, and the fire briskly returned. The Count D'Estaing determined to come round with his squadron to Boston, and Gen. Sul livan must retreat to the north end of the island. 26th. — Maj. Gen. Hancock returned to Boston. The vol unteers were coming home. On the morning of the 28th, the Count D'Estaing, with IA "glass" (nautical) is a half-hour sand glass; hence, "three glasses " would be an hour and a half. 2 Capt. Raimondis (see p. 200). 177 his squadron, arrived in Nantasket Road, and the next day the Count came up to town. On the 29th, there was a smart action between the Brit ish and Americans, towards the north end of Rhode Island, which terminated in favour of the latter. The most severe part of this action was at the hollow between Butts' Hill and Quaker-Hill, a ground situated for slaughter on both sides, rather than for decisive victory on either. Col. Jack son's regiment of Continental troops, and Gen. Lovell's brigade of militia, are said to have distinguished them selves; and the artillery drove off two frigates that at tempted to cover the enemy's flank. The Americans had about 60 men killed, and 180 wounded. The loss of the enemy unknown. On the evening of the 30th, Gen. Sullivan left the is land; and on the morning of the 31st, an express from Plymouth brought intelligence that 20 sail of topsail ves sels were seen off that place the evening before — some of them very large ships. In consequence of this intelligence, our General, the President of the Council, Gen. Hancock, and others, went down the harbour, to confer with the Count D'Estaing. The next day, September 1st, the Count came up to town, with a number of his officers, and was to dine with our General. Just as the company were going to sit down, the signal guns announced the appearance of the fleet, and which were visible from the town, (Mr. John Cutler hav ing discovered them from the steeple of the Old South meeting-house) appearing to be about 20 sail, eight of which at least were two deckers. The Count immediately put off for the squadron. Several of the islands next to the road had been fortified, and the squadron moored, in order to give a warm reception to the British, should they attempt to enter the road. A number of regiments of the militia of the vicinity were ordered to march immediately to the Castle, Dorchester Heights, Boston, Noddle's Is land, &c. Several signal guns were heard in the bay the 178 latter part of the night, and the next morning the fleet was out of sight. The militia which were coming in were countermanded. Admiral Byron's squadron arrived a few days before, at Sandy Hook. The enemy made a descent on New-Bedford, and did considerable damage: they also made a demand on the inhabitants of Martha's Vineyard, for a large number of cattle, sheep, &c. 9th. — An affray happened in Boston between some American and French sailors; two French officers in at tempting to part them, were much wounded — one of them, a Major of the fleet, died of the wounds on the 15th. Brigadier-General Speckt1, the eldest Brigadier of the Hessian troops under the Convention, wrote a letter to our General, in which he informed him that, being advanced in age, he had but little taste for those pleasures and amusements which please the young and gay; but he had not lost his taste for sporting with his gun, and requested that he might do it within the limits of his parole. Noth ing could be more pleasing to our General, than to gratify this brave veteran soldier; he therefore wrote him the fol lowing answer. Head-Quarters, Boston, Sept. 10, 1778. " Sir, Your letter of the 9th inst. came to hand. The fre quent informations which I have received of your civil and polite behaviour, since you have been at Cambridge, and your taste for little diversion except shooting, leads me to grant you every indulgence which is compatible with my duty, and the honour and safety of my country. You there fore have my permission to go a-shooting within the limits assigned you, attended by one servant; and hope the amusement will equal your expectation. I am, &c. (Signed) W. Heath. Brig. Gen. Speckt." 1 The name is spelled " Specht " by other writers. 179 17th. — The General Assembly ordered 1200 men to be detached from the militia, and marched to Boston immed iately; and on the 19th, ordered one-third part of their train-band to be immediately detached for the purpose of completing the works in and about the town of Boston — garrisoning the works, &c. Our General went on board the Count's ship, and with him to view the works on George's Island. 22d.— The Count D'Estaing, with the officers of his squadron, made a public appearance in town — were re ceived by a Committee of both Houses of the General As sembly, at their landing — breakfasted at Gen. Hancock's — took punch and wine at Head-Quarters, at twelve o'clock ; and then returned to the fleet, under a salute on leaving the town, and on passing the Castle. The grand army under Gen. Washington took a new po sition ; one division under the immediate command of Gen. Putnam, at Fishkill; one under Gen. De Calf1, Frederick- burg; and one under Gen. Gates, at Danbury. 24th. — The General Assembly countermanded their or ders for calling out one-third part of their train-band, and ordered that they be held in readiness to march on the shortest notice, wherever occasion shall require. 25th. — The General Assembly made a public dinner for the Count D'Estaing, &c. &c. The next day, the Count D'Estaing, Marquis de la Fayette, and a number of other officers and gentlemen, dined with our General. October 5th. — The British destroyed the salt-works and several stores, and did other damage, at Egg-Harbour; they also surprised a part of Pulaski's legion in that neigh bourhood, whom they handled very severely. The British pretended that they had heard that Pulaski had instructed his men not to give them quarter; they therefore antici pated retaliation. About the same time, Baylor's dra- 1 Baron De Kalb. 180 ? goons were surprised at Tappan1, and treated much in the same manner. Nocturnal enterprises, in which the bayo net is principally made use of, are generally uncommonly bloody. The Languedoc, the Count's ship, having been completely repaired, fell down to Nantasket Road, and joined the squadron. 6th. — Gen. du Portail, the Chief Engineer of the Ameri can army, came to Boston to survey the several works, in order to their being repaired or augmented, as might ap pear necessary; and fatigue parties were employed on the different works, and every thing put in the best posture of defence. 20th. — Our General, in company with the Count D'Es taing and others, went to Nantasket, to take a view of the works there, and to review a battalion of marines, who manoeuvred well, and in every particular were well disci plined, owing to the unwearied attention of their Major, M'Donald, a Scotchman, whose father was in the rebellion in England, and with this son fled to France for safety. Gen. Bouganville2 had the command at Nantasket ; he was also commander of one of the first ships in the fleet under the Count D'Estaing. The enemy left the Jersies, and pre pared to embark a large body of troops. About 100 sail of shipping, including men-of-war, fell down to the Hook on the 17th of October. On the 19th and 20th, the fleet sailed from Sandy Hook; the first division consisted of upwards of 120 sail, of which 15 were of the line, and 10 or 12 frig ates. This fleet went to the West- Indies, with about 4000 troops. The second division, about 30 sail, of which 2 were of 50 guns, and 2 frigates. They stood to the east ward; there was but few troops on board the latter. Six brigades of the Continental army were on their march for Hartford, in Connecticut, to be ready to move this way, lAt Old Tappan, N. Y. Grey of Paoli was the leader in this butchery. 2 Bougainville. 181 should the enemy appear in this quarter; and Maj. Gen. Gates was ordered to take the command in the Eastern Department. November 4th. — In the morning the Count D'Estaing's squadron sailed from Nantasket Road. 6th. — Maj. Gen. Gates, with his lady, suite, &c. arrived at Boston. The Somerset, British man-of-war, of 64 guns, run a-shore on Cape Cod, and was taken possession of by the militia, who sent the crew prisoners to Boston. 7th. — Maj. Gen. Gates took the command at Boston. In the next Continental Journal, printed by John Gill, the fol lowing made its appearance: Boston, Nov. 12. " On Thursday last, arrived in town, from Hartford, the Hon. Horatio Gates, Esq., Major-General in the army of the United States, being appointed by Congress to the chief command in the Eastern District, in the room of the Hon. Major-General Heath. While we receive with the highest pleasure, a General justly celebrated for his personal virtues and martial achievements, we cannot but pay a due tribute of respect to one, whose accomplishments as a citizen, a gentleman, and an officer, have shown so conspicuously in the delicacy, propriety, and dignity of his private and public conduct, through the whole of his command in this department. Tenacious of the civil rights of the community, and of the honour and safety of these Free, Sovereign and Inde pendent States, so far as they were entrusted to his pro tection, in the most interesting and critical circumstances in which a General could possibly be placed, he has uni formly exhibited a prudence, animation, decision and firm ness, which have done him honour, and fully justified the confidence reposed in him. The cordial and most explicit approbation of the army, the inhabitants of this town, the army and navy of our il lustrious ally, the Government of this State, his Excellency the Commander in Chief, and of Congress, added to the 182 consciousness of his having discharged his trust with fidelity — must, in a great measure, have alleviated the fatigues incident to his arduous station, and compensated the loss of his health, so much impaired by an incessant attention to business. The very polite and affectionate terms in which he has taken leave of the department, in his last general orders, demand also our most grateful acknowledgements." 10th and 11th. — The Convention troops marched for Virginia. They were marched to Connecticut, and de livered to the orders of Gov. Trumbull; and were in like manner to be conveyed from State to State, each furnishmg an escort, wagons, &c. until they reached Virginia. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton having refused to give passports to American vessels to bring to Boston provisions for the use of the Convention troops, or otherwise supplying of them, Congress on the 15th of October, passed a resolve that the troops of the Convention should be removed to Charlottesville in Virginia, and they were now moving ac cordingly. 24th. — It was learnt, that the brigades which marched from the American grand army to Hartford, marched back to Danbury. In this month, Col. Alden1, of one of the Massa chusetts regiments, with his clerk, were surprised and killed by the tories and Indians, at Cherry Valley, in the State of New York. The regiment defended the place, and repulsed the enemy. The American army went into winter quarters in the Jersies, at Danbury, Peek's Kill, &c. Capt. Hallet, on the 23d, on George's Bank, latitude 41 40 north, in 18 fathoms water, discovered a mast 10 or 12 feet above water ; upon a close examination, supposed it to be the top mast of a 74 gun ship of Admiral Byron's squadron, which foundered in the storm when the Somerset ran on shore. December 19th. — It was learnt that the small armed ves- 1 Ichabod Alden, 7th Mass. 183 sels of the enemy did considerable damage to the inhabi tants along the eastern coast of Massachusetts, by plunder ing, taking their coasting vessels, &c. A little before this time, Colonel Joseph Ward, Muster-Master-General, and Lieut. Col. Bradford1, were taken by a gang of refugees, in the Jersies, and carried to New York. 27th. — Our General received letters from Admiral Gam- bice2, respecting the prisoners taken from the Somerset man-of-war, and proposing an immediate exchange; the letters couched in very polite terms. 28th. — A wagoner, his horse and four oxen were found frozen to death near the dyke, on Boston Neck; they per ished in the severe cold storm on the preceding Saturday evening. A more particular account from Cherry Valley stated, that there were 32 persons killed, beside Col. Alden, and 10 rank and file belonging to the Continental army, and about 30 other persons taken prisoners ; 32 houses, 31 barns, one grist-mill, fulling-mill, and blacksmith's shop, burnt. The enemy consisted of 200 refugees, and 443 Indians, com manded by Joseph Brandt, Walter Butler, and the Seneca Chief. In the late storm, the General Arnold privateer drove on shore near Plymouth, and bilged ; 80 of the crew per ished ; the survivors were much frost bitten. 1779. January 6th. — The Marquis de la Fayette, and Captain Raimondis, of the Cesar, French man-of-war, who was wounded and left at Boston, sailed for France in the Alliance frigate. 8th. — Capt. Mowatt3, with his fleet of picaroons, were still infesting the eastern harbours ; they had already cap tured about 60 sail of vessels, inward and outward bound, and burnt several houses, &c. Congress had passed a resolution for calling in the whole 1. William Bradford of Pa., his deputy. 2 Gambier. 3 This was Lieut. Oliver Mowatt, R. N., who burnt Falmouth, (Port land), Me. 184 emission of Continental bills of May 20th, 1777, and April 11th, 1778, for which the possessors were to receive loan certificates, or new emission bills. 21st. — It was learnt, that the enemy had made an irrup tion into the State of Georgia, and were in possession of Sunbury. Their force, at first about 500, was said to have increased to upwards of 1000. The British ship which foundered on George's Bank, and whose masts were discovered by Capt. Hallet, was sup posed to be the Cornwall, of 74 guns. It is said her whole crew were lost. February 3d. — It was learnt, that the Count D'Estaing, on his arrival in the West-Indies, made an attack on the British in the island of St. Lucia, but was defeated with considerable loss, after which he returned to Martinico. 9th. — It was learnt, that a number of Americans con fined in Gosport prison, in England, among whom was Doctor Downer of Roxbury, made their escape in the pre ceding Sept. by sapping with great address from the prison under the yard and fence, to the distance of 20 feet, daily concealing the earth which they dug, in the chimney of the prison. This Doctor Downer is the person mentioned fo have killed a British soldier in single combat, on the 19th of April, in the battle of Lexington. 11th. — Intelligence was received, that the British troops had made themselves masters of Savannah in Georgia Their light-infantry having stole a march upon the Ameri cans, by a pass through a swamp, which was supposed im passable, and thereby defeated our army, under the com mand of General Robert Howe. The American loss was said to be about 30 officers, and near 400 men, killed, wounded and taken prisoners. This event threw the whole State of Georgia into the hands of the British. The Ameri can General was accused of misconduct, and a long time after brought to trial, and honourably acquitted. The British here practised art, and force was obliged to yield to it. Their light infantry finding their way through the 185 path in the swamp, bringing of them on the flank and in the rear of the Americans, where they were not expected, or not guarded against, proved their overthrow. A few shots on the flank or rear of an enemy, serves to discon cert them more than a heavy flre in the front. The point of decision here lies not in the force, but in the mind. A company of 50 men cannot fire more shots in the same given time on the flank, or in the rear, than they could in the front; but these few shots will have more effect on the minds of the enemy than the fire of a whole regiment in their front. The Americans were vastly inferior in num bers to the British, and must at any rate have been forced from the ground ; but the British light infantry passing through the swamp was the first misfortune. The Continental currency was now greatly depreciated. Provisions very scarce and dear, flour especially so, and many families in Boston almost destitute of this necessary article. 26th. — The following resolution of Congress was pub lished in the Boston newspapers : In Congress, October 8th, 1778. Resolved, That all limitations of prices of gold or silver be taken off. 27th. — It was learnt, that the Supreme Executive Coun cil of the State of Pennsylvania had exhibited a number of charges against Maj. Gen. Arnold, while in command at Philadelphia. March 7th. — Intelligence was received that Gen. Tryon had lately made an excursion to Horseneck, in Connecti cut, where he burnt three small vessels, destroyed all the salt works, and one store; plundered the inhabitants of their clothing, &c. and carried off about 200 cattle and horses, and some small stock. The party consisted of about 600 light-horse, light-infantry, rangers, &c. The enemy got off with the loss of 2 men killed and 20 made prisoners; 186 giving out that their party was the advance of a body of 3 or 4000, they deceived the militia, and so escaped a severe drubbing. 11th — It was learnt, that on the 25th ult. the British made an excursion from Staten Island, with intent to sur prise General Maxwell, who was stationed with his bri gade at Elizabeth-Town, in the Jersies. They landed at the point a little before day-break, and in such superior force as obliged the General to abandon the town, which he ef fected without loss. The enemy burnt the General's quar ters, the barns, and a store or two, and then returned. 29th. — Intelligence was received, that General Wash ington had issued a proclamation offering a pardon to all deserters from the army of the United States, who should return to their duty by the first day of May following; and also called upon all absent officers to join their respective corps by that time. Maj. Gen. Sullivan was ordered from Providence to the main army, and Maj. Gen. Gates to the command at Provi dence. Capt. Mowatt again made his appearance on the eastern coast; he had landed some men, and burnt Mr. Shaw's house. Intelligence was received, that the British had gained an advantage on the borders of Georgia, near Briar Creek. Col. Elbert, with a number of others, were taken prisoners. Matters did not wear a favourable aspect in that quarter ; but it was hoped that Gen. Lincoln, who had now got the command, would give a new complexion to things at the southward. April 2d. — Maj. Gen. Gates left Boston for Providence; in consequence of which, the command again devolved on our General. 11th. — It was learnt, that a fleet of refugee cruisers made an attempt to land a number of men near Falmouth, (Cape-Cod) but were repulsed by the militia. They next proceeded to Nantucket, where they plundered the inhabi- 187 tants of goods and effects. Edward Winslow, formerly of Marshfield, was said to be commander, with George Leo nard, and others. 16th. — The Continental frigates, Warren, Ranger, and Queen of France, had been very successful in a cruise, hav ing taken seven or eight prizes going from New York to Georgia : they were now coming in ; among them the Jason, of 20 guns and 150 men ; and Maria, of 16 guns — four field and about twenty commissioned officers, were on board. A large number of accoutrements for dragoons, dry goods to the amount of £100,000, and it was said a sum in specie — a large quantity of flour, &c. A great uneasiness prevailed in the army at Providence, on account of the scarcity of flour. Relief was sent on. May 3d; — Capt. Farnald1, of New Hampshire, was un fortunately shot in the breast, as he was standing on Han cock's wharf, by a musket-ball discharged from the War ren frigate. 7th. — Intelligence was received that Col. Vanscaak2, of the New York line, with about 500 men, had lately made an excursion to Onondaga, surprised the castle, killed 12 Indians, and took 34 prisoners; destroyed their castle, cat tle, provisions, &c. without the loss of a man. 11th. — Several vessels laden with rice, on account of the United States, arrived at Boston from the southward, which was a great relief to the troops. An embarkation of troops had sailed from New York, under the command of Gen. Matthews3, convoyed by the ships under the command of Sir George Collier. They en tered the Capes of Virginia, on the 8th. The 9th or 10th they took possession of a fort at the entrance of Eliza beth River, on the west side. They destroyed a number of vessels, stores, provisions, &c. and returned. 1 ToDias Fernald, 18th Continentals. 2 Col. Goose Van Schaick, 1st N. Y. ; Gen. James Clinton commanded the expedition. 3 Gen. Edward Mathew. 188 30th.— Sir Henry Clinton moved up the Hudson, with a large body of troops, covered by Sir George Collier's naval force, which had just returned from Virginia. The inten tion of Sir Henry Clinton was to seize the posts at King's Ferry. 31st. — Gen. Vaughan, with the troops under his com mand, landed on the east side of the river, a few miles be low Verplank's; and Gen. Sir Henry Clinton on the west side, a little below Stony-Point. They soon got possession of both the points, and immediately rendered them more defensible. June 4th. — Our General received orders from Gen. Washington to join the main army. He had before ordered all the heavy cannon at Boston and Providence, belonging to the United States, to be sent on to Hudson's River ; they were sent on, slung under two pair of stout cart-wheels each, and were a ponderous load. Our General received polite and affectionate addresses, on his leaving the department, from the officers of the line — staff department; — the officers of the Boston regiment of militia, &c. On the 11th, he left Boston, accompanied by a large and respectable number of officers and citizens, in carriages and on horse-back, as far as Watertown, where the gentle men had ordered an elegant dinner to be provided. After having dined, he took his leave, amidst a shout of hearty wishes for his health and prosperity. 14th. — He reached Springfield — was met some distance out of town, by Col. Armand's dragoons, and the officers of the Springfield department; and, on entering the town, was received by the infantry of the legion, and a salute of cannon from the park. Here he quitted the extent of his late eastern command. He was escorted out of town by the officers of the several military departments, and Ar mand's dragoons. 21st. — He arrived, at New Windsor ; and on the 22d, at tended Gen. Washington to West Point. 189 23d. — Our General took the command of the troops on the east side of the Hudson, having in front all the out posts towards New York, on that side of the river. The British were now in possession of both the points at King's Ferry; and a number of transports had lain in the river for some time. The advanced posts of the Americans at this time, on this side, did not extend lower than Peek's Kill; and a picket mounted every night at the south foot of Sugar-Loaf Hill. On the morning of the 24th, about 200 of the enemy's light horse1 came up as far as Crom Pond — surprised two militia pickets — killed and took prisoners about 30 men. About 130 light infantry of the enemy, at the same time, came out from Verplank's Point, made an excursion round, and then returned. On the morning of the 25th, the enemy's light horse, and about 1000 infantry, were at Pine's Bridge. Our General ordered 200 light infantry, under the command of Lieut. Col. Grosvenor2, to march to Robinson's stores3, near Marpoach Pond, to cover that quarter. 27th. — A deserter came in from Verplank's Point, who reported that the British army, except five or six regi ments, were to leave the Points, and were then embarking. Soon after, upwards of 30 sail of transports were seen, standing down the river. The British had a sloop at an chor off Peek's Kill landing, and a ship off the Dunder berg. Lest the enemy meant a deception, the Americans were ordered to lie on their arms, and a regiment extra was ordered to advance on thelieights. 28th. — Three deserters, one a'Hessian musician with his horn, came in from the enemy; they confirmed the testi- 1 The cavalry were Tarleton's and Simcoe's from White Plains. They burnt the Presbyterian Church at Yorktown. 2 Thomas Grosvenor. 3rd Connecticut. 3 Robinson's Stores were probably what was later known as Red Mills, ahout three-quarters of a mile south of Lake Mahopac, which is General Heath's " Marpoach Pond." 190 mony of the former deserter, that the body of the British army had left the Points. 29th. — Moylan's horse crossed the river, to reinforce the left; they were to be followed by Armand's legion. At evening a deserter came in from the enemy. A detachment from the British at Rhode Island arrived at New York. Congress, by ballot, chose our General a Commissioner of the Board of War ; which was communicated to him by a letter from his Excellency the President, which he re ceived on the 30th, as follows : Philadelphia, June 24th, 1779. " Sir, I have the pleasure of transmitting to you, en closed, an extract from the minutes of Congress, of the 22d ult. by which you will perceive that you are elected to the place of a Commissioner to the Board of War. I have the honour to be, &c. (Signed) John Jay, President. Maj. Gen. Heath." In Congress, May1 22d, 1779. " Congress proceeded to the election of a Commissioner for the Board of War, and the ballots being taken, Maj. Gen. W. Heath was elected. Extract from the Minutes. (Signed) C. Thomson, Secretary." Although this appointment was, in its nature, very hon ourable, with a salary proportionate, (4000 dollars per an num) and our General was informed that he would also retain his rank in the army, he absolutely declined an acceptance of it; expressing, in a letter to his Excellency the President, the high sense he entertained of the honour done him by the appointment; yet, that he chose rather to participate in the more active operations of the field. 1 So in the original — obviously a mistake for " June." — Ed. 191 July 1st. — Gen. Huntington's brigade moved down, and took post at the gorge of the mountains, near the Continental Village. A deserter came in from the enemy. 2d. — Col. Rufus Putnam reconnoitred the enemy's posi tions at Verplank's and Stony Points. At evening a de serter came in from the enemy. About 360 of the enemy's light horse and light infantry came out from Mile-Square, and attacked Col. Sheldon's light horse, who were posted at Poundridge, about 90 in number. The superior force of the enemy obliged our horse, at first, to retreat, but, being reinforced by the militia, they in turn pursued the enemy. Our loss was one Corporal, one Trumpeter, and eight privates wounded ; three Sergeants, one Corporal, and four privates missing; and 12 horses missing. The standard of the regiment being left in the house when the dragoons suddenly turned out, was lost. Of the enemy, one was killed, four taken prison ers, four horses taken, and one horse killed. The enemy set fire to and burnt the meeting-house and Maj. Lockwood's house; they also burnt Mr. Hay's house, at Bedford. The 5th was an excessive hot day, with a thunder shower; the lightning struck in the encampment of Col. Putnam's regiment, on Constitution Island, by which one man was killed; several received much hurt, and a large number were stunned. The enemy entered the Sound — landed, and took pos session of New-Haven — plundered and insulted the inhabi tants, and left the place. 7th. — The enemy landed at Fairfield, and burnt many houses, &c. 10th. — About 6 o'clock, P. M. our General received or ders from Gen. Washington to march, with the two Con necticut brigades, by the way of Crom Pond, towards Bed ford. The next morning, although rainy, the first brigade marched to the Village. 12th. — The storm ceasing, the tents (although as wet 192 as water could make them) were struck, and the troops took up their line of march, reaching Amawalk about sun- setting. A report having been spread in the fore part of the day, that the enemy were at or near Pine's Bridge, our General ordered the baggage-wagons, under proper es cort, to file off to the left and pursue a road running par allel with the one on which the column was moving, thereby keeping the column between the enemy and the wagons. Both arrived on the ground of encampment within a few minutes of each other. The troops lay on their arms, with out pitching their tents. The enemy continued their depre dations at the Sound, and burnt some houses at Norwalk. 13th. — At 5 o'clock, A. M. the troops took up their line of march, and reached Ridgefield, where they halted for the night. The next morning, our General sent off all the tents and other baggage to Danbury, and took up his line of march towards Stamford. When he ascended the high grounds in sight of the Sound, the enemy's fleet was ob served under sail, standing off and on between Stamford and Long Island. About 12 o'clock, two deserters from Gen. Clinton's army came to our troops ; they had left the British army two or three hours before, at which time the enemy were on the point of making a movement ; the corps of guides and pioneers being then assembled at Gen. Clin ton's quarters. This called for the exercise of discretion. The troops on board the transports, with Gen. Tryon, if the whole should land, were far inferior to the force with our General ; but the main British army, with Gen. Clin ton, was by far superior to his. If the whole of the Ameri cans had marched down to Stamford, Clinton, by five or six hours' forced marching, might have crossed his rear and have cut him off from a communication with the High lands ; he therefore resolved to march forward to the Cross Roads, one of which went directly to the British army, an other to Stamford, and in his rear to the Highlands. Here he took a position in order of battle, and detached Col. 193 Starr's1 and Meig's regiments, with one field-piece, to Stamford, whose approach towards the town, in open view, would prevent Tryon from landing ; or, in case he did with superior force, the detachment might be surrounded. In this situation the troops remained until dusk, and then took a more advantageous position for the night, the whole lying on their arms, in order of battle. Early on the morn ing of the 15th, our General received information that the shipping had gone down towards New York ; he therefore moved and took a strong position, between Ridgefield and Bedford, sending out patroles of horse and foot, on all the roads. This movement towards the Sound quieted the minds of the people, and saved Stamford and other towns from destruction. While the attention of both the grand armies, and of the adjacent country, was turned towards the Sound, the Great Washington ordered] General Wayne to strike at Stony Point with the light infantry, which lay not far dis tant from that post. This was done with great prompt itude, the works being carried by assault, and the whole garrison made prisoners of war, with all the artillery, am munition, stores, &c. This was a most brilliant affair. In advancing to the assault, the front of the American column led, with unloaded arms, relying solely on the use of the bayonet. As they approached the works, a soldier insisted on loading his piece — all was now a profound si lence — the officer commanding the platoon ordered him to keep on; the soldier observed that he did not understand attacking with his piece unloaded ; he was ordered not to stop, at his peril ; he still persisted, and the officer instant ly dispatched him. A circumstance like this shocks the feel ings ; but it must be considered how fatal the consequence would have been, if one single gun had been fired ; scores would have lost their lives, and most probably defeat 1 Col. Josiah Starr, 1st Connecticut. 194 would have been consequent; and therefore this was the lesser evil. On the morning of the 16th, signal guns were heard in the Sound, towards New York, at intervals, from two o'clock until day-light. Gen. Clinton's army moved to Mile-Square. Stony Point having been taken, with so much eclat to the American arms, Gen. Washington determined an attempt on Verplank's Point, on the east side of the Hudson and opposite to Stony Point : for this purpose Maj. Gen. Howe, with two brigades and some 12-pounders on travelling car riages, was ordered to proceed by the way of Peek's Kill, throw a bridge over the creek, move on to the point, and open batteries against the enemy's works, while a cannon ade and bombardment was kept up across the river from Stony Point. 17th. — At about 10 o'clock, A. M. our General, while out reconnoitring, received, by an express from Gen. Wash ington, orders to move as expeditiously as possible to Peek's Kill, where he would find Gen. Howe with two bri gades. Our General was to take the command of the whole, and carry into effect the orders which had been given to Gen. Howe. Our General returned immediately to the troops, and at 12 o'clock began his march towards Peek's Kill — marched until dusk 15 miles, when the troops halted and laid down to rest on the side of the road; the dragoons not unsaddling their horses. At 3 o'clock the next morning, the troops resumed their march, and in the afternoon our General received information from Gen. Howe, by express, that Gen. Clinton was on full march with his whole army towards Verplank's Point : an answer was returned, at what point the troops then were, and that they were marching as fast as the men could endure,, and would continue so until they reached him. When the troops had advanced a little to the westward of Drake's 1 Several places are known as Mile-Square; this one was probably the present Armonk, Westchester Co. 195 farm, Col. Moylan came up from Gen. Howe, with infor mation that a part of Clinton's army were then above the New Bridge on Croton river, pushing for the point ; and that he was retreating from the point as fast as possible. On this, our General ordered Gen. Huntington, with his brigade and two field-pieces, to push forward as fast as the troops conld march and keep in breath, and take a posi tion on the high ground to the south of Peek's Kill, which commands the road to the point, and also that to the New Bridge, on Croton river ; and ordered a regiment to file off to the right, and secure the pass over the hills between Drake's and Peek's Kill, and also ordered the flank-guard on the left to be re-inforced, and to send out small flank- guards still further from its flank. The troops moving on with the utmost expedition to the ground which Gen. Huntington had been ordered forward to secure. Every moment that passed was expected to announce the com mencement of an action between the advanced or flanking parties of the two armies, but it did not take place. At this moment, Gen. Washington, having learnt how matters stood, and that possibly Gen. Clinton might attempt to push into the Highlands, sent an express to our General, to move into the Highlands immediately, which was done just after dark, the troops passing the night on Bald Hill. It was generally the opinion, that if our General had not been at hand to advance in the manner he did, that Gen. Clinton, by a forced march of his light troops, backed by his army, would have got in the rear of Gen. Howe be fore he could have possibly gained the road at Peek's Kill, and between his army and a sally from the garrison at Verplank's Point inevitably cut off the whole. Our troops at Stony Point cannonaded and bombarded the enemy's works at Verplank's during the whole day, and until near midnight. The post was then evacuated, and the Washing ton galley was blown up. 19th. — The troops moved from Bald Hill, Parson's bri- 196 gade to Robinson's, Huntington's and Paterson's to Nel son's1, Nixon's to the gorge of the mountains. On the morning of the 20th, the British army moved from their encampment, near the New Bridge, to Dobbs' Ferry. The shipping in Tappan Bay came to sail, and stood down the river. By a new disposition of the Ameri can army, on this day, our General was to command the left wing ; it then consisted of two regiments of horse, and two divisions of infantry. 22d. — Two deserters came in from Verplank's Point; they reported that the garrison consisted of about 1000 men. This day about 40 sail of transports sailed up the Sound. The British army encamped near Dobbs' Ferry, their advanced picket at Jonathan Odle's2, three miles be low Tarrytown; from this encampment the enemy moved to Mile-Square, Valentine's Hill, &c. A deserter from Ver plank's Point reported that the British had again taken possession of Stony Point, and were repairing the works, their force on both sides of the river being about 1500; and that they had got up the guns of our galley, which had been blown up. 25th. — The British having sent Col. M'Lean, in the month of the preceding June, with six or seven hundred men, to establish a post at the mouth of Penobscot river, the Legislature of Massachusetts determined to dislodge them, and made arrangements for the purpose. The arma ment, with the troops, made their appearance on this day before the posts ; the issue is detailed in a subsequent page. 26th. — Four deserters came in from the enemy ; they re ported that Stony Point was repairing with great expedi tion, and that Lord Cornwallis arrived at New York on the 24th. 28th. — Four deserters came in from the enemy. Capt. Hopkins, of the dragoons, took the Captain of the Bellona 1 Nelson's Point is the present Garrisons, nearly opposite West Point.2 The Odell Tavern is still standing at Elmsford, east of Tarrytown. 197 transport, a sergeant and Corporal of the 64th British regiment, and two seamen, who had ventured too far on the shore near Sing-Sing. 29th. — Two deserters came in from the enemy. 30th. — Three deserters came in from Verplank's Point. This morning, Capt. Hopkins, of Moylan's light dragoons, fell in with a party of the enemy, under Col. Emmerick, near Young's tavern, and charged them vigorously ; but the Colonel being supported by the Hessian Jagers, Capt. Hop kins was obliged to retreat : he brought off with him three prisoners and four horses, and killed six of the enemy on the spot, and wounded a number. Several prisoners which he had taken, were retaken by the enemy. Capt. Hopkins had one dragoon and two horses wounded. The British army were under marching orders for several days. 31st. — Three deserters came in from the enemy. A body of the enemy landed in the Jersies. August 1st. — Capt. Hopkins gave notice that the British army had moved below Kingsbridge. Three deserters came in from the enemy. 2d. — Six deserters came in from the enemy. The Brit ish army encamped on York Island : Emmerick's and Bear- more's corps above Kingsbridge. The American army re mained at their respective posts in the Highlands. 5th. — About 100 horse of Sheldon's, Moylan's and of the militia, and about 40 infantry of Glover's brigade, passed by Delancey's mills to the neighbourhood of Morri sania, where they took 12 or 14 prisoners, some stock, &c. The enemy collected — a skirmish ensued, in which the enemy had a number of men killed and wounded ; our loss, two killed, and two wounded. The British army, below the 7 mile stone on York Island, were alarmed by a report that a French fleet were on the coast. Three deserters from Verplank's Point; they reported, that the garrison, except 400 men, were to remove to New York. 9th. — Four deserters from the point. 198 10th.— Two deserters from the enemy. There were some desertions from our army to the enemy. 14th.— Four prisoners, taken the 12th, near Sing- Sing, were sent up, and two deserters from the British 33d regiment came in. 17th. — Three deserters from the enemy. 18th. — Seven deserters came in; the enemy were very strongly fortifying Laurel-Hill, on New York Island, nearly opposite to Fort Washington. 19th. — 23 wagon-loads of forage were brought off from the vicinity of Peek's Kill, covered by 250 men, under the command of Lt. Col. Putnam. The galley and one of the enemy's gun-boats fired a number of cannon-shot at the party, but did them no harm. The night before, Maj. Lee, with about 400 men, surprised and took the garrison at Paulus Hook. 20th. — Two deserters came in from the enemy. 21st. — Two deserters came in. At night, the enemy's guard-boats came as far up the river as Anthony's Nose, and fired several shot at the camp of our light infantry. 23d. — Three deserters came in from the enemy. The enemy burnt two houses belonging to the Lents, near Ver plank's Point. Accounts were received that Gen. Sullivan had advanced into the Indian country, and taken two of their principal villages. 25th. — Admiral Arbuthnot arrived at New York, with about 200 sail of transports: between 2 and 3000 troops arrived in the fleets, and a large sum of money was brought for the army. The continental frigates were very success ful at sea, and sent into Boston several rich sugar ships. 30th.— Three deserters came in from Verplank's Point; and a prisoner belonging to the 33d regiment, taken by one of our patrolling parties, was sent up. About 15 sail of square-rigged vessels lay at anchor near King's Ferry. 1231 recruits, of the 2000 ordered by Massachusetts, to serve 9 months, had already joined the army. September 4th.— Three deserters from the enemy. 199 5th. — Two deserters came in. Preparations were mak ing in New York for an embarkation of troops. The Brit ish army sickly, especially the newly arrived reinforce ment. 6th. — The enemy made an excursion from Kingsbridge, towards Horseneck ; on their return they carried off some cattle, sheep, poultry, &c. Accounts were received, that General Sullivan had obtained further advantages in the Indian country. 9th. — Two deserters came in from the enemy. Putrid fever and scurvy raged at New York, among the British troops. The American army remained in their former posi tion: the Virginia line, near Ramapo, on the right; the light infantry, near Fort Montgomery ; the Maryland line, on the left of the light infantry ; Pennsylvania line and two brigades of Massachusetts, at West Point ; North Carolina brigade, at Constitution Island; the Connecti cut line, on the east side of the Hudson, between Nelson's and Robinson's ; Nixon's brigade, at the gorge of the moun tains, above the Continental Village; Glover's brigade, Moylan's, Sheldon's and Armand's horse, at Lower Salem. On the west side of the Hudson, besides Fort Clinton, at West Point, and Fort Putnam, on the height back of it, there were seven or eight redoubts, built and building. On the east side of the river, the north and middle redoubts, and a redoubt at the gorge of the mountains. Great ex pectations of the arrival of a French fleet on the American coast. 13th. — Four deserters came in from the enemy. 14th. — Just after reveille, our General received orders to put Nixon's brigade under marching orders, which was done immediately. Gen. Howe was ordered to move with Glover's to Pine's Bridge, Croton River, and Nixon's to join him. 15th. — A deserter came in from Verplank's Point. The day before, a party of the enemy's horse came out from 200 Kingsbridge, with intent to surprise Lieut. Col. White1; but by the desertion of one of the party, they were dis appointed. The Count de la Luzerne, the new French min ister, arrived and dined at Gen. Washington's. 16th. — Nixon's brigade marched to form a junction with Glover's, and a picket of 150 men mounted at the Village. Four deserters came in from the enemy. Count Luzerne was highly pleased with the treatment he received in pass ing through the New-England States. The 17th, he left head-quarters, on his way to Philadelphia. 18th. — Gen. Howe was ordered to march back to Lower Salem, With Glover's and Nixon's brigades. 19th. — Two deserters came in from the enemy. Some appearances indicated an evacuation of Verplank's Point. 22d. — A deserter came in from Kingsbridge. Prepara tions for the embarkation of a large body of troops con tinued at New York. 29th. — Two deserters from the enemy, and one the day before. 30th. — The engineers, covered by a detachment of 300 men, reconnoitred the enemy's works at Verplank's; the enemy appeared to be much alarmed, and fired a number of cannon and small-arms at our party, and a reinforce ment came over from Stony Point. At evening another deserter came in. October 1st. — The American light infantry moved down near to Kakeat, and the North Carolina brigade from Con stitution Island to New- Windsor. One deserter from the enemy. 2d. — Two deserters came in from the enemy. Certain intelligence was received, that the Count D'Estaing had arrived at Georgia. The enemy at Verplank's Point opened a number of pits, about five feet deep, and four feet over, with a sharp stake in the middle, around the outside of the abatis. By the last accounts from Gen. 1 Anthony Walton White of New Jersey. 201 Sullivan, he was at Tioga, on his return this way; he had destroyed a great number of Indian towns, and immense quantities of corn and other produce, and cut down many fruit-trees. It is a great pity the latter were not spared;1 they would have been very pleasing to the American set tlers, who will one day, not far distant, fill that fertile country. A number of armed vessels, from the Connecticut ports on the Sound, cut out and brought off a number of the enemy's vessels from Huntington harbour, Long Island, and the Halifax brig was taken by an armed galley. 4th. — Five deserters came in from the enemy. Gen. Howe was ordered to take post again at Pine's Bridge. 5th. — The Sieur Gerard, the late French Minister, came to camp, and dined at head-quarters. Two days before, Lieut. Gill2, of the dragoons, patrolling in East Chester, found a superior force in his rear, and no alternative but to surrender or cut his way through them; he chose the latter, and forced his way, when he found a body of in fantry still behind the horse; these he also charged, and on his passing them, his horse was wounded and threw him, when he fell into the enemy's hands. Two of the Lieutenant's party, which consisted of 24, were killed, and one taken prisoner; the rest escaped safe to their regi ments. Congress about this time appointed the Hon. John Adams, a Plenipotentiary, extra, to repair to France to negotiate for a peace with Great Britain, when an opportunity occurred. The British fortified Governor's Island, in the harbour of New York, and appeared under great apprehensions of a visit from the French fleet under the Count D'Estaing. The troops and shipping at Rhode Island were ordered to New York. 7th. — One deserter from Verplank's Point. There was a 1 General Heath's remark was prophetic— the Genesee Country has since. been famed for its orchards. 2 Pirst Lieut. Erasmus Gill of Moylan's Dragoons. 202 cannonade between our infantry at Grassy Point and one of the enemy's guard-ships, when the latter was driven from her moorings. 8th.— The light infantry of Glover's brigade crossed the Hudson to join Gen. Wayne. The British had a number of ships ready to sink in the channel, in case a French fleet arrived, and attempted to enter the harbour of New York. The merchants in the city packing up their goods. 9th. — A fleet of transports passed the Sound towards Rhode Island. The General Officers of the American army resolved to address Congress, respecting themselves and the army. 11th. — There was a cannonade in the river, between the American and British gun boats ; but no damage was done. Sir Joseph Yorke, the British Minister at the Hague, ad dressed their High Mightinesses on the 22d of the preced ing July, in such language as evinced the feelings of the British nation. One deserter from Verplank's Point. 12th. — Gen. Sir Henry Clinton and Col. Robinson came up to Verplank's Point, in the ship Fanny, and returned the next day ; after which, the workmen at the point ceased working. The troops of the enemy sickly at the Points. 13th. — Two deserters came in. 14th. — Two prisoners of war were sent up, and four de serters came in. The British transports were collected near Turtle Bay, and their ships of war near the Narrows. 15th. — Seven deserters came in from Verplank's Point; they reported that the enemy were putting their baggage, sick, the women, &c. on board the transports. 16th. — 14 prisoners, seamen taken by Capt. Hallet's1 company of New York militia two days before, on the North River, near Teller's Point, were sent up, and one de serter came in. Just before sun-set, a galley and several of the enemy's gun-boats came up the river as high as Fort Montgomery, and fired a number of shot at some of 1 Probably Jonathan Hallett, 2nd N. Y, 203 our boats, and at the troops on the west side of the river ; the Americans discharged some muskets from the banks at the boats, and the latter returned down the river. 17th. — One deserter came in from the enemy. 19th. — One deserter from Verplank's Point. 21st. — Three deserters came in from Verplank's, and re ported that the enemy were on the point of evacuating their works. The officer commanding the advance picket soon after sent information that the works appeared to be on fire, and the shipping 'standing down the river. Maj. Waldbridge3, who commanded the advance picket, immed iately sent a detachment to take possession of the works. Several loaded shells left by the enemy, in places where the fire would come at them, burst, but did no harm. The enemy left one horse, a few old intrenching tools, and some other trifles at the point. The transports came to anchor off the mouth of Croton River; and information was re ceived that the British grenadiers were on board the trans ports, in the river near Fort Washington, and the 7th and 33d regiments in readiness to embark at a moment's notice. Our General, lest there might be an attempt made on Gen. Howe's division, ordered a detachment of 500 men and half the Village picket, under the command of Col. Brad ley2, to march, and take post during the night, towards the New Bridge, on Croton River, to cover the right flank of Howe's division. 22d. — About noon, the enemy's transports came to sail with the ebb, and beat down against the wind, and were soon out of sight. 24th. — Col. Bradley's detachment returned to camp. The Colonel reported that he observed large quantities of forage and fruit in the fields between Verplank's Point and Croton River. To secure the forage, and cover the communication by King's Ferry, Gen. Washington ordered our General to move down and encamp at Peek's Kill. 1 Amos Walbridge, 2nd Conn. 2 Philip Burr Bradley, 5th Conn. 204 27th. — The Connecticut line moved down and encamped on the high ground to the southward of Peek's Kill, and Maj. Gen. Hoe's division was ordered up to form a junc tion. The day before, the enemy landed a body of troops, said to be some thousands strong, at Amboy, and advanced towards Brunswick. The light infantry, and the Virginia line, were ordered to move down that way. A man, who said he was a Lieutenant in the British service, and who produced a commission, came out, pre tending that he had been ill-treated, &c. The State of Massachusetts appeared to be determined to fill up their regiments, and offered 300 dollars bounty to those who would enlist, in addition to the Continental bounty, which was 200 dollars, making the whole bounty 500 dollars. This morning about 70 sail of vessels, many of them large ships, passed down the Sound, having the garrison of Rhode Island on board. When the enemy landed yesterday at South Amboy, 96 horse about the same time landed at Perth Amboy, and proceeded rapidly to Middlebrook — burnt Raritan meet ing-house, Somerset court-house, and six boats, and re turned through Spotswood to South Amboy. This party, on its retreat, was met by 13 of the militia, who fired upon them, killed one man and four horses, and took the com manding officer Lieut. Simcoe1, and one trooper, prisoners. By the capture of Simcoe, the inhabitants were freed of a very enterprising and troublesome officer. The destruc tion of the boats was the object of this enterprise. 29th. — Gen. Howe's division formed a junction with the Connecticut line, and encamped with them. Strong fatigue parties were daily employed on the works evacuated by the enemy at Verplank's and Stony Points. Gen. Lincoln and the Count D'Estaing, by the last accounts from Georgia, had formed a junction, and were determined to attack the enemy. 1 Simcoe was exchanged for Colonel Thomas Reynolds, 2nd Burling ton County (N. J.) militia. 205 31st. — Maj. Bunchoten1 arrived at camp, with a detach ment of Lieut. Col. Paulding's New York levies ; they were ordered to garrison Stony Point. November 1st. — Maj. Armstrong, Aid-decamp to Maj. Gen. Gates, called at camp, on his way to Congress, with official dispatches of the evacuation of Rhode Island, which took place on the night of the 26th ult. The British left large quantities of forage, fuel, &c. Brigadier-General Stark had gone on to Rhode Island. A Hessian Lieutenant belonging to the Landgrave regiment, came out from the neighbourhood of Fort Washington ; he pretended to desire to enter the American service as a volunteer. A prisoner of war was also sent up from the advance guard. 2d. — Intelligence was received, that a body of Indians were advancing towards Fort Schuyler. 7th. — Two German Jagers, with their rifles, came to our camp. At night, Col. Armand proceeded with his corps from near Tarrytown to the vicinity of Morrisania, to the house of Alderman Leggit2, where he surprised and took Maj. Bearmore and five other prisoners. The secrecy, precaution, gallantry and discipline exhibited by the Col onel and his corps on this occasion did them much honour. In the capture of Maj. Bearmore3, the inhabitants of the adjacent country were relieved from the frequent excur sions of a troublesome officer. The British augmented their troops on Staten Island. 11th. — Two deserters came in from Col. Wurmb's Jagers. 13th. — Five prisoners taken by Lieut. Oakley4, near Morrisania, were sent to camp. The enemy had a redoubt, called No. 8, on the east side of Haarlem Creek,' nearly opposite to the fort on Laurel Hill, and under the fire of 1 Elias Van Benschoten of Lieut.-Col. Albert Pawling's N. Y. Levies. 2 William Leggett. 3 Bearmore-Baremore-Barmore does not appear in Sabine's Loya. 4 Miles Oakley, 4th N. Y. 206 its cannon, for the security of their advanced troops on the Morrisania side. 16th. — Intelligence was received, that on the 23d of Sep tember, Gen. Lincoln and the Count D'Estaing broke ground before the enemy's works, at Savannah, in Georgia ; and on the 5th of October, batteries of 33 cannon and nine mortars were opened and continued firing with intervals, until the 8th, without the wished-for effect. 9th. — In the morning an assault was made, which proved unsuccessful — the Americans were repulsed and obliged to retreat; of the Americans, 170 were killed and wounded; among the former, Count Pulaski, a remarkably brave and enterprising officer, of Polish descent. The Count D'Est aing was wounded in the arm and leg. It was said, that of the French troops, 330 were killed and wounded. Gen. Lincoln retreated to Charleston. It being rendered cer tain that the Count D'Estaing would not come to the northward, the American main army was distributed lo winter-quarters. — Moylan's, Sheldon's, Baylor's, and Bed- kins's1 dragoons to Connecticut — Poor's brigade to Dan bury — the Massachusetts line to West Point, and the posts in the Highlands — the Virginia, Maryland, Pennsyl vania, New-Jersey, New York, and Connecticut lines, Hand's and Stark's mixed corps, back of the Scotch Plains, New Jersey — Lee's corps, and a detachment of in fantry, towards Monmouth — Mar6chaussee2, with the main army. • 19th. — Four prisoners were sent up. 23d. — Maj. Gen. Gates and his family came to camp from Rhode Island. 25th. — The troops were moving to their different places of cantonment; many of the soldiers, (as fine men as ever 1 This is not clear. Henry Bedkins of Pennsylvania was adjutant of Moylan's Dragoons in 1777, and afterwards was of Pulaski's Legion, but does not appear as ever in command of either. 2 The MarechaussSe (Provost Guard) was part of Col. Armand's corps. 207 stood in shoes) were marched barefooted over the hard frozen ground, and with an astonishing patience. Remem ber these things, ye Americans, in future times ! 28th. — The Commander in Chief gave our General the command of all the posts and troops on Hudson's River, which Gen.Washington very frequently called the key that locked the communication between the eastern and south ern States ; and of all the posts in the United States, was the most important. This was the second time that our General was designated to command them. 29th. — Three deserters came in from the galley in the river. 30th. — Early in the morning, Gen. Washington crossed the Hudson at King's Ferry, into the Jersies. Maj. Gen. Gates was to proceed to Virginia — a sergeant, corporal, and three privates were carried off by one Joseph M'Keel, a sly, artful fellow, in the service of the enemy, and who conducted many recruits from the country to them. December 2d. — Col. Armand, with some of his corps, went down to Morrisania, and took a Capt. Cruzer1, of Bearmore's corps, and two- men, prisoners. At this time the troops were greatly distressed for bread and the horses for forage; the former occasioned by the want of water at the mills. All the horses, except such as were absolutely necessary for incumbent duties, were ordered out into the country. A man who pretended to be a prophet, came out from the enemy — he more probably was a spy. 16th. — Col. Paulding's corps was ordered from Stony Point to Poughkeepsie, a great desertion having taken place in the corps. The Virginia line had marched to the southward — the enemy at New York preparing for the em barkation of a large body of troops, said to be upwards of 10,000, under the immediate command of Gen. Sir Henry Clinton. Uohn Harris Cruger of N. Y., Lieut.-Colonel commanding De Lan cey's First Battalion of Tories. He was a particularly active officer, and successfully held Ninety-Six against Greene in 1781. 208 [1779 29th. — Three Hessian deserters came into our army; they reported that Gen. Mathew had command of all the posts and troops on the north end of York Island, above the bridge, &c. The long talked-of embarkation of troops at New York sailed on the 26th. The fleet was said to con sist of near 200 sail. The enemy boasted that it was con voyed by nearly 20 ships of war; however, it was well known that they had very few ships of the line, and that they were under great apprehensions of falling in with a superior French. force. They went to the southward. 30th. — Lieut. Col. Newhall1, with 250 men properly of ficered, marched to do duty on the lines. 31st. — There was a great body of snow on the ground. 1780. January 1st. — Early in the morning about 100 sol diers belonging to the Massachusetts regiments, who had enlisted at different periods subsequent to January, 1777, for three years, pretending that their time of service now expired, (although many of them had months to serve, be fore their three years' service was completed) marched off with intent to go home: they were pursued and brought back: some of them were punished; the greater part of them pardoned. Some others, at other posts, conducted in the same manner, and were treated as the first men tioned. Those whose time of service was expired were all discharged with honour. 3d. — The snow had got to be about four feet deep on a level, and the troops were driven to great difficulties in keeping open the communications to the posts — obtaining provisions, fuel, forage, &c. and so intense and steady .was the weather, that for more than twenty days there could not be discovered the least sign of the remission of the snow in any places the most open to the influences of the sun. The Hudson soon becoming passable on the ice, the troops were comfortably supplied with provisions; but many were in extreme want of clothing. 1 Probably Ezra Newhall. He was of the 5th Mass. up to May, 1777. 1780] 209 8th. — The light infantry belonging to the regiments in the Highlands, were joining their respective corps; the corps of light infantry being separated for the winter. 9th. — About dusk, the north redoubt was discovered to be on fire at the southwest corner, under the rampart, which was of timber ; the fire was out of reach, and threat ened the destruction of the whole redoubt. A detachment from West-Point was ordered over to the assistance of the garrison of the redoubt; but so strongly dovetailed and strapped were the timbers of the rampart, that the fire for a time seemed to baffle every exertion to extinguish it. The ammunition and about 100 barrels of salted provis ions in the magazine, were seasonably removed by the gar rison; but the fire was not extinguished until about four o'clock in the morning of the 10th. All the officers and men distinguished themselves on this occasion; but the conduct of Col. Lyman1, Col. Sprout2, and Capt. Drew3, were conspicuous indeed, as was that of a Sergeant of the garrison of the redoubt, who, when all were on the point of quitting the redoubt, lest the magazine should take fire and blow up, instantly rushed into the magazine, and did not quit it until he had thrown out every cask of powder and box of ammunition deposited in it. If his name could be recollected, it should be inserted. 12th. — Artificers and fatigue-men were ordered to repair the redoubt. The weather continued intensely cold. A man belonging to the garrison of West Point was frozen to death on his return from New Windsor to the point; and many soldiers were frost-bitten. Maj. Gen. Putnam, who had gone home on furlough about this time, received a paralytic stroke at Hartford in Connecticut, as he was on his return to the army. 17th. — The Hudson was so frozen, that travellers safely 1 David Lyman, Aide-de-Camp to Gen. Heath. 2 Ebenezer Sprout, Lieut.-Col. 12th Mass. (Died Feb. 1805) . 3 Probably Seth Drew, captain 2nd Mass (Died May 18, 1824) . 210 crossed the river on the ice at King's Ferry. A Hessian deserter came in. Two days before, viz. on the 15th, Maj. Gen. Lord Stirling made a descent on Staten Island, with a detachment, consisting of about 2500 infantry, and some artillery; a number of tents, arms, and some baggage, be longing to Col. Buskirk's regiment, was taken and brought off, with some liquors, &c. Some of the American soldiers deserted to the enemy, and 17 were taken prisoners. 19th. — Two deserters came in from the enemy, and re ported the strength of the British at Fort Washington. The people crossed from New York to Long Island on the ice. About this time, a detachment from Col. Mead's1 reg iment of levies at Horseneck, and a number of volunteers from Greenwich, the former under the command of Cap tain Keeler2, the latter under the command of Captain Lockwood3, the whole about 80, marched to Morrisania; and about one o'clock in the morning, made an attack on Col. Hatfield. They first attacked the picket, killed 3, and drove the rest into the Colonel's quarters. The Col onel and his men took to the chambers, and fired out at the windows and down stairs at those who had entered the house; it appeared difficult, if possible, to dislodge them, the house was instantly set on fire, by putting a straw bed into a closet, which compelled the enemy to jump out at the chamber windows, to avoid the flames. Colonel Hatfield, one Captain, one Lieutenant, one Quarter- Master, and 11 privates, were taken prisoners and brought off. This was a pretty affair, but was a little tarnished on the return by some of the militia, who were fatigued, loiter ing on the road where they supposed there was no danger ; but a party of horse pursuing, overtook, killed and captured several of them. 1 Col. John Mead, 9th Conn. Militia. 2 Capt. Samuel Keeler of Col. Bradley's State regiment of militia 3 Uncertain — possibly Capt. Samuel Lockwood, 2nd Continental Ar tillery. 211 26th. — Between 11 and 12 o'clock at night, a fire broke out in the Quarter-Master's barrack at West Point, which threatened the most serious and extensive damage. It had got to considerable height before it was discovered; the barrack was consequently consumed to ashes, notwith standing every exertion of the garrison, which was numer ous. Brig. Gen. Paterson1, who commanded the garrison, not only distinguished himself, but also exposed his per son to the flames to save another building, which was for tunately effected. The loss by the fire was considerable, both to the public and to individuals. The night before, viz. the 25th, a detachment of the enemy, said to consist of 500 men, made an excursion to Staten Island, over the ice, to Elizabeth-Town, in the Jersies, and completely sur prised the picket posted there, consisting of a Major and 100 men, properly officered ; it was said that not a gun was fired, nor a man hurt. The enemy surrounded the houses, and took the troops asleep. — He who suffers himself to be surprised, through the want of proper precaution, his character (says a great military writer) is irretrievable. February 1st.— At two o'clock in the morning, the north redoubt was discovered to be on fire again in the top of the bomb-proof, between the sally-port and the door. Every exertion was made by the garrison of the redoubt, and de tachments sent to their aid, to put out the fire, but it was so much out of reach, and spread among the joints of the large timbers, that it was not extinguished until about two o'clock on the morning of the 3d. The redoubt re ceived considerable damage, and would have been totally destroyed had it not been for the unwearied exertions of the troops, day and night, during the whole of the time: and much credit was due to Lieut. Col. Vose2, and the other officers who commanded. By a more accurate ac count of the loss at the Quarter-Master's barrack at West Uohn Paterson. 2 Probably Joseph Vose, Col. 1st Mass. 212 Point, it appeared that 6 marques1, 26 horsemen's tents, 80 common tents, 900 knapsacks, 250 narrow axes, and a number of other articles were burnt and destroyed. On the morning of the 3d, about 9 o'clock, the enemy made an attack on Lieut. Col. Thomson2, who commanded the troops on the lines ; the Colonel's force consisted of 250 men, in five companies, properly officered; they were in structed to move between Croton River and the White Plains, Hudson's River and Bedford ; never to remain long at any one place, that the enemy might not be able to learn of their manner of doing duty, or form a plan for striking them in any particular situation. The Colonel had for some days taken post himself at Young's, not far from the White Plains. Capt. Watson3 with his company, was with the Lieut. Colonel; Capt. Roberts4, and Capt. Stoddard5, with their companies, were on the right; Capt. Lieut. Farley6 and Capt. Cooper7 on the left. The force of the enemy consisted of the four flank companies of the first and sec ond British regiments of Guards— detachments from two Hessian battalions — some mounted Jagers and mounted refugees. The whole under the command of Col. Norton, of the Guards. The roads were so filled with snow, that the enemy advanced but slowly, and were obliged to leave their field-pieces behind them on the road. They were dis covered at a distance by Mr. Campbell, one of our guides, who, from the goodness of his horse, reconnoitred them pretty near. He gave the Lieutenant-Colonel notice of their advancing, and that their force was considerable, and advised him to take a stronger position a little in his rear. But the Lieutenant-Colonel was very confident that 1 Marquees. 2 Lieut.-Col. Joseph Thompson, 10th Mass. 3 Capt. William Watson, 9th Mass. 4 Capt Moses Roberts, lSth Mass. 5 Capt. Orange Stoddard, 1st Mass. 6 Capt.-Lieut. Michael Farley of Wesson's regiment. 7 Capt. James Cooper, 14th Mass. 213 the enemy were only a body of horse, and that he could easily disperse them, and would not quit his ground. The enemy first attacked a small advance-guard, consisting of a Sergeant and 8 men, Avho behaved well, and meant to reach the main body in season ; but were prevented by the horse, and all taken prisoners. The enemy's horse soon appeared in sight of the Americans, and discharged their rifles at long shot, and waited the coming up of the in fantry, when a warm action commenced; the enemy scat tered, taking the advantage of the ground and trees in the orchard, and closing up on all sides. The 3 companies of the detachment, which had joined, fought well. After about 15 minutes' sharp conflict, our troops broke; some took into the house, and others made off ; the enemy's horse rushing on at the same instant, and the whole shouting. At this time, the two flank companies came up, but finding how matters stood judged it best to retreat, Capt. Stod dard's company giving a fire or two at long shot, Capt. Cooper's, from their distance, not firing at all. Some who were engaged effected their escape, others were overtaken by the horse. The enemy collected what prisoners they could, set Mr. Young's house and buildings on fire, and returned. Of the Americans, 13 were killed dead on the spot, and Capt. Roberts, who was mortally wounded, lived but a few minutes. Seventeen others were wounded, sev eral of whom died. Lieut. Col. Thomson of Marshall's, Capt. Watson of Greaton's, Capt. Lieut. Farley of Wes son's, Lieut. Burley1 of Tupper's, Lieut. Maynard2 of Grea ton's, Ensign Fowler3 of Nixon's, Ensign Bradley4 of Bigelow's, with 89 others, were taken prisoners. The enemy left 3 men dead on. the field, and a Captain of gren adiers was wounded in the hip, and a Lieutenant of in- 1 Lieut. William Burley, 11th Mass. 2 Lieut.-Jonathan Maynard, 5th Mass. 3 Ensign Stephen Fowler, 6th Mass. 4 Ensign Levi Bradley, 4th Mass. 214 fantry in the thigh. The British, in their account of the action acknowledged that they had 5 men killed, and 18 wounded. Lieut. Col. Badlam1, with the relief for the lines, was at the time of the action far advanced on his march, but not within reach of those engaged. One Mayhew, a pedler, well known in Massachusetts, was of this detachment ; he made off up the road, but find ing the horse rushing on, he struck off into the snow, al most up to his hips. Two of the enemy's horse turned into his track after him ; and, gaining fast upon him, he asked them if they would give him quarter; they replied, "Yes, you dog, we will quarter you." This was twice repeated; when Mayhew, finding them inflexible, determined to give them one shot before he was quartered; and, turning round, discharged his piece at the first horseman, who cried out "The rascal has broke my leg;" when both of them turned their horses round and went off, leaving May hew at liberty to tread back his path to the road, and come off. 7th. — A body of the enemy's horse, said to be about 300, and the 7th British regiment, came over from Long Island to West Chester on the ice. The troops in New York, about this time, drew four days' provisions, which they were di rected to keep cooked, and the troops to be in readiness to move on the shortest notice, with arms and blankets only. A number of sleighs were collected, and some heavy cannon were drawn out; whether an attempt on Morristown or the Highlands was the object, was not known. Several deserters came in from the enemy, and in this month there were some desertions from the American southern regi ments to the enemy. The enemy also made an excursion in the Jersies as far as Elizabethtown, and carried off great quantity of plunder. 19th. — Some small parties of the enemy were out to wards the White Plains. ILieut.-Col. Ezra Badlam, 2nd Mass. 215 Our General having obtained leave from the Commander in Chief, to make a visit to his friends in New-England, commenced his journey eastward on the 21st of February, and reached his house in Roxbury on the 29th. It appeared that the winter had been as severe, and the snow as deep, in the New-England States, as in the Highlands of New York. March 8th. — Our General addressed the Hon. Council of Massachusetts on the importance of the then moment for recruiting their battalions. By the master of a flag from Bermuda, information was received, that the fleet, in passing from New York to the southward, the preceding December, suffered consider ably; and that an ordnance ship was lost. 9th. — A privateer ship of 18 guns, prize to the Tartar privateerj was sent into Boston. 13th. — The Committee of the General Court of Massa chusetts were issuing notes for the depreciation of the pay of the troops of their line: these were sold at a very great discount. 20th. — A rich Jamaica ship, prize to the Continental frigate Deane, arrived safe in Boston harbour. The same day, there was a report that Sir Henry Clinton had ar rived at South Carolina, with the British troops which sailed from New York in December. The Legislature of Massachusetts passed a resolution, granting a premium of. £30 per man for each recruit that should be enlisted and pass muster for their line. 27th. — A Marblehead privateer, the Aurora, sent in a prize ship, with 1600 barrels of flour — 1400 do. of beef and pork; and dry goods to the amount of £700 sterling. April 1st. — News was received of a most obstinate en gagement in Europe, between the French frigate, Surveil- lant, Capt. Conedic, of 36 guns, and the British frigate, Quebec, Capt, Farmer, of the same force. The French frig ate had 32 men killed, and 92 wounded. The Quebec blew up, and her whole crew, 300, except 40, were lost, either in 216 action or in the explosion. This engagement did honour to the bravery of both nations. The depreciation of the Continental money rapidly in creased ; many people withheld their merchandise and pro duce from sale, and the times were truly embarrassing. An embarkation of some thousands of Hessian troops took place at New York for Carolina. In the course of this month, the Maryland line of the army, and three com panies of artillery, marched to the southward. 26th. — News was received that the British had got their shipping over the bar, at Charleston ; that the Continental frigates in the harbour were hauled up, and their guns taken out and mounted on batteries: the garrison or Charleston numerous. 27th. — The privateers Franklin and Jack sent into Salem a large letter-of-marque ship, having on board 1000 barrels of pork and beef, 750 barrels of flour, 800 firkins of butter, and dry goods to the amount of £15,000 ; she was from London, bound to New York. During this month the enemy made two excursions to Paramus, where they killed and took a number of Ameri cans; Maj. Byles1, of the Pennsylvania line, was mortally wounded, and died the next day. The enemy burnt Mr. G. Hoper' s2 houses and mills ; the militia turned out spirit edly, repulsed and pursued the enemy. By accounts from Europe, the American cause was viewed in a very favour able light by the Courts in that part of the world. 28th. — The French frigate Hermione, Capt. Latouch,3 ar rived at Boston ; in whom came the Marquis de la Fayette and suite, from France. The inhabitants of Boston ex hibited the greatest demonstrations of joy on the occas ion. The next morning the Marquis, Capt. Latouch, and other officers, made a visit to our General: the Marquis. the day before, on his landing at Hancock's Wharf, was 1 Thomas Langhorne Byles was Major of the 3rd Pennsylvania. 2 Garret Hopper. 3 " Latouch " Captain de la Touche-Treville. 217 received by a number of Continental officers, and escorted to his lodgings; after which he paid his respects to the Honourable Legislature, who were then in session; in the evening there were rejoicings. May 2d. — The Marquis de la Fayette set out from Boston for the army. During the session of the Legislature of Massachusetts, they received an order from Congress, in favour of the State, for 2,000,000 dollars, to reimburse the State in part of the expense of the Penobscot expedition, which had greatly involved the State. The enemy having taken post at Penobscot, the Legislature of Massachusetts, without applying to Congress, determmed to dislodge them; and, for this purpose, ordered a body of militia to be detached, under the command of Brig. Gen. Lovell ; and, in addition to their own State vessels, procured a number of priva teers, belonging to individuals. The expedition was at tempted; the shipping arrived safe in Penobscot Bay; the troops, or a part of them/, were debarked to attack the enemy, but they did not succeed in their attempt. The armed vessels, instead of cruising off the harbour, where they could have had sea room, remained in the bay. The enemy sent a naval force to the relief of the post, which arrived and found the American shipping in the river, who immediately ran up as far as they could, where the whole were destroyed, and the militia and seamen left to find their way home through the woods. This was an un fortunate affair to Massachusetts, whose privateers, be fore, were numerous, able and active, and greatly annoyed the enemy ; and, had it not been for this blow, would have been of great public benefit, by depriving the enemy of many of their provision vessels, and of increasing provis ions in our own country. Congress, at first, seemed to de cline bearing the expense, as they had never been con sulted respecting the expedition; but they finally con sented to a reimbursement. Congress ordered that 800 men, in the pay of the United 218 States, should cover and protect the Eastern Country the ensuing summer. 12th. — The gentlemen of Boston gave a ball to the French and American officers. 14th. — The Hermione frigate, Capt. Latouch, sailed from Boston harbour on a cruise. A number of very valuable prizes, taken by the American cruisers, were sent into different ports. The 19th exhibited a most extraordinary phenomenon1. The wind, in the morning, was southerly, a moderate breeze; the sun shone a little after it was up, but was soon clouded: there was some thunder and moderate showers. A little after 10 o'clock the clouds exhibited a yellowish cast, and every object seemed to present a brassy hue; it soon after began to grow dark, which gradually increased; between eleven and twelve it became necessary to light can dles, to do household business. The darkness increased until near one o'clock, P. M. the inhabitants dining by candle-light. About one, the darkness began to decrease, and went off gradually, as it came on; between three and four, P. M. the usual light was restored. The evening, although the moon was at the full, was remarkably dark, and tnere was a sprinkling of rain — the people were in great consternation. This phenomenon, in the opinion of our General, although he has no pretensions to astronomy, was produced by opposite winds forcing together a vast body of smoke and vapours, (the air had been smoky for some days before) which, from the state of the atmosphere, as they accumulated, ascended, forming, from top to bot tom, such a body, as to cause the darkness ; and yet, so open were the particles, as to admit the sun's rays so far as to cause the brassy appearance: had the atmosphere been heavy, the vapours would probably have condensed, and rain, in torrents, would have ensued. Some observations 1 This was the celebrated " Dark Day " in New England, during which Abraham Davenport objected to the Connecticut Legislature's adjourning. (See Whittier's poem). 219 made by our General, some years since the foregoing, on the darkness in Canada, and which, on the afternoon of the preceding day he noticed at Roxbury, and remarked thereon, afford strong collateral evidence that the fore going opinion was not wholly unfounded. As the learned and curious wish to ascertain, as far as possible, the true cause of the phenomenon, we throw in those rough materials which our observation at the time collected, that they may be shaped by those of greater skill, for the information and satisfaction of an enlightened pub lic. Those called the dark days in Canada, were the 9th, 15th and 16th of October, 1785 ; but the greatest degree of darkness was on Sunday, the 16th, when the darkness was so great as to render the use of candles necessary in the churches and families ; it is said to have been as dark as a dark night. On the yth, at Roxbury, in Massachusetts, the wind was at south-east, and then at south-west; the day fair, cool and pleasant. The 15th, the prevailing wind was easterly ; the day was cloudy and foggy; about 2 o'clock, P. M. it was uncom monly dark, and there was an opposite wind from the south-west. There were several hard claps of thunder at a distance, and a few drops of rain. Towards evening the sun was visible, but appeared very red, and the clouds exhibited a brassy complexion, so similar to the dark day in May, 1780, as to be noticed and compared; in the even ing the wind was southerly. The 16th, which was the dark day in Canada, the wind, there at opposite points, N. E. and S. W. was at Roxbury S. W. The day was fair, warm and pleasant; from which it seems to be obvious, that the body of smoke and vapour, with which the atmosphere was fraught on the 15th, which pervaded a region which comprehended Canada and a part of New-England, at least, was, by the strength of the south west wind in the night, forced northward, and being still opposed by the north-east wind, pressing on the other side, 220 produced the accumulation of smoke and vapour which occasioned the darkness, and if the north-east wind had prevailed against the south-west, the darkness would have probably been in New-England. 21st. — Capt. Latouch returned from his cruise; he ran into Penobscot Bay, and cast anchor, firing several signal guns. Two British sloops of war, which were at anchor, upon the approach of the Hermione came to sail, and ran up the river. Capt. Latouch lay at anchor until he took a plan of the enemy's post. Our General intended to have commenced his journey for the army on Monday, the 29th of May ; but on the afternoon of the preceding day, he re ceived a letter from Gen. Washington, dated the 15th, in which his Excellency observed, "I have the pleasure to in form you, in strict confidence, that we have authentic ad vices of his most Christian Majesty's determination to send a respectable armament of sea and land forces to operate on the continent, and that the period is not remote when we may expect their arrival." The Commander in Chief added that the seizing of Halifax was an object with the French; and our General was instructed to obtain, as soon as possible, the exact state of the British in that quar ter, as to their works, garrisons, and troops; all of which was shortly after ascertained. 29th. — The Hermione fell down, in order to proceed on a cruise to the southward. The troops at West Point at this time were very short of provisions, and without rum. Congress and the Commander in Chief called upon the several States to complete their battalions of the army with all possible dispatch. The enemy at New York were under great apprehensions of a visit from the French, and were said to have prepared a number of hulks of different sizes to sink in the channel. June 6th. — News was received that a French fleet had been seen at sea, in latitude 33, standing E. N. E. About this time, Capt. Latouch sent into Dartmouth a prize brig, having 1700 firkins of butter, 150 boxes of can- 221 dies, and 150 boxes of soap on board. The Legislature of Massachusetts ordered a draft to be made from the militia to complete their Continental battalions. The drafts were to rendezvous at Springfield. 9th. — Our General received the following letter from the Commander in Chief : Head-Quarters, Morristown, June 2, 1780. " Dear Snt, It is expected that the fleet of our ally will, in the first instance, touch at Rhode Island for the purpose of landing their sick and supernumerary stores, and to meet the intelligence necessary to direct their operations. I have already sent forward Dr. Craik, to take up proper houses for hospitals, and to make some previous arrange ments in that department: but I apprehend the French General and Admiral will, upon their arrival, want the advice and assistance of a person of discretion and judg ment, and acquainted with the country. I must request you to repair immediately to Providence, and, upon their arrival, present yourself to them, letting them know that they may command your services. I would wish you to endeavour, in conjunction with the Governor, to establish a market between the fleet and army and country, and be careful that our allies are not imposed upon in the prices of articles which they may fina necessary. This is a point recommended in the plan drawn up by the Ministry of France, and which policy and generosity directs should be strictly attended to. (Signed) G. Washington. Gen. Heath/-" About this time an engagement happened between the Hermione and a British man-of-war, which lasted near two glasses1; it was a drawn battle. Capt. Latouch, and one 1 An hour. This engagement was in March (According to Balch's " Our French Allies ") . The British ship was the Iris. The French lost 90 killed and wounded and Latouche himself was wounded in the left arm. 222 of his Lieutenants, were wounded ; and it was said 13 men were killed and 39 wounded. Several of the wounded died soon after; among them, an officer. 15th. — At 11 o'clock, A. M. our General set out from his house, in Roxbury, for Providence, where he arrived the next day, at 2 o'clock, P. M., was met at Patucket Bridge by Deputy-Governor Bowen, and a number of other gentle men, who attended him into town. On Friday, the 2d of June, the Continental frigate, Trumbull, James Nicholson commander, had an engage ment with a British frigate of 36 guns, which lasted five hours. The Trumbull had all her masts wounded, 8 men killed, and 31 wounded. The British frigate was supposed to have suffered much. In this month a body of the enemy, under the command of Gen. Knyphausen, landed in the Jersies, and moved towards Springfield: Some skirmishing ensued; Col. Angel's1 regiment suffered considerably. A number of men were killed on both sides. It was now fully confirmed that the enemy's shipping passed Fort Moultrie, on Sulli van's Island, in South Carolina, on the 9th of April, with a fresh breeze, by which means they received but little damage: they came to anchor between Fort Johnson and Charleston, and just out of reach of the latter. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton had now advanced his approaches so far as to be erecting his batteries. The garrison made a good defence, but, on the 12th of May, were obliged to surrender. Of the Americans, 1 Colonel, 1 Aid-de-camp, 6 Captains, 3 Lieutenants, 10 Sergeants, and 68 rank and file, were killed; 1 Major, 2 Captains, 5 Lieutenants, 18 Sergeants, and 114 rank and file were wounded. Maj. Gen. Lincoln, with Brigadiers Moultrie, M'Intosh, Woodford, Scott, Du- portail and Hogan,2 with 9 Colonels, 14 Lieut. Colonels, 1 James Hogan of N. C. He died Jan. 4, 1781, while a prisoner at OhjiriGStoii2 Col. Israel Angell, 2nd Rhode Island. (Died May, 1832). 223 15 Majors, 84 Captains and Capt. Lieutenants, 84 Lieuten ants, 32 Second Lieutenants and Ensigns, 209 non-com missioned officers, 140 drums and fifes, and 1977 rank and file, including sick and wounded, of the Continental troops, making in the whole, 2564, were taken prisoners. Be sides the foregoing, it was said that there were about 500 naval officers and seamen, 250 Charleston militia, and 500 country militia, also taken — the enemy pretended many more. About 20 American soldiers deserted to the enemy during the siege. Besides the artillery and stores which fell into the hands of the enemy, (the former being 220 pieces from 3 to 26 pounders) the Continental frigates Provi dence, Boston, Ranger and Queen of France, with 4 State gallies, and one French ship of war, were lost. It was supposed that about 500 American men, women and chil dren, were killed during the siege. The enemy's loss in killed and wounded was considerable. The enemy broke ground before the town on the first of April at the distance of 800 yards from the American works. Before the sur render of the place, it was contemplated in Council of War, to embark the garrison, except about one regiment, on the shipping, in the night, and run up the river, and land land them ; thereby to save the army, leaving those in the town to make the best terms they could. The opinion for some time prevailed, but it was afterwards given up. 7th. — The British fleet left Charleston, said to consist of 2 ships of the line, 2 fifties, 2 forty-gun ships, 6 or 7 frig ates, and between 80 and 90 transports ; near 2000 negroes were put on board the fleet. Lord Cornwallis, with about 2000 men, marched from Charleston towards North Car olina. A few days after the surrender of Charleston to the British troops, the grand arsenal, wherein was de posited all the arms, &c. taken from the Americans, took fire and blew up, by which it was said a number of men were killed and wounded. The loss of Charleston roused the country, and seemed to give a check to that spirit of 224 avarice and speculation which had but too much pre vailed in all places, and a determination, by every exertion to drive the enemy from the country, appeared to be catch ing from breast to breast. At Rhode Island, every preparation was making for the reception of the French fleet and army. The handsome college at Providence was given up for a hospital. The American privateers had been very successful, and many valuable prizes were sent in. 24th. — Monsieur Corney,1 a French Commissary, ar rived at Providence. About this time it was suspected that the enemy at New York had some intentions of an at tempt on our posts in the Highlands; and some of their shipping were up the Hudson. On the morning of the 30th, Capt. Latouch, in the Hermione, sailed from Newport harbour. The same day, the British frigate Flora, which was sunk in Newport harbour nearly two years before, was weighed; she had a quantity of provisions on board. July 1st. — News was received that the enemy were again in motion in the Jersies. 2d. — News was received of the sailing of the French fleet, which left France on the 2d of May. It was said in France, that if the fleet fell to the northward, it would visit Halifax; if to the southward, it would proceed to Rhode Island. A great uneasiness, at this time, prevailed in Ireland. 4th. — The anniversary of American Independence was celebrated at Providence, by a discharge of 13 cannon from the park. Governor Greene, Monsieur de Corny, and a number of other gentlemen, dined with our General. By the last accounts the main army was at Ramapo, in the Jersies. In the skirmish which happened some time before, near Springfield, the Americans had about 40 killed and wounded. IThis was Louis D. E. de Corny. 225 11th. — At one o'clock, A. M. our General received ad vice by express, that the fleet of our illustrious ally was seen off Newport, the evening before. Before sun-rise an express was sent forward to Gen. Washington with the agreeable tidings, and our General immediately prepared to proceed to Newport, but the day being calm, the packet did not reach the town until 12 o'clock at night. Gen. Rochambeau had gone on shore in the evening. Early the next morning our General went on shore, and waited on the Count; from which moment the warmest friendship commenced between our General, the Count, and all the French officers. After breakfast, our General went on board the Due de Burgogne1 man-of-war, to pay his re spects to the Chevalier de Ternay, who commanded the squadron, where the same friendship was commenced. The fleet consisted of seven sail of the line, viz. the Due de B.ourgogne, of 80 guns; le Neptune, le Conquerant of 74; le Jason, le Seville, V Ardent, and le Provence of 64; and theFantasque of 64 ; armed enfute with 40 guns as a hospi tal ship; two frigates and two bombs, with a number of transports, having on board about 5000 troops, besides the marines, the soldiers and sailors, something sickly. The joy in the town of Newport was great. At 11 o'clock, A. M the Admiral saluted the town with 13 cannon, which was returned by the discharge of the same number. In the evening the town was beautifully illuminated, and fire works exhibited, to the great pleasure and satisfaction of our allies. The fleet, on its passage to America, fell in with five British ships of the line, who, after firing a few broad sides, bore away. 12th. — Our General dined with the Count de Rocham beau. 13th. — The Chevalier de Ternay, and the principal offi cers of the squadron, came on shore. 14th. — Count de Rochambeau, and the General Offi cers of the French army, dined with our General. 15th. — A number of the Field-Officers of the French regi- lDuc de Bourgogne. 226 ments dined with our General in the most happy frater nity. 18th. — Four sail of ships of war, two of them supposed to be of 40 or 50 guns, appeared in the offing; they were supposed to be British. The same day the Chevalier de Ternay, and the principal officers of the fleet, dined with our General. In the afternoon the remains of the officer who was some time before wounded on board the Hermione and died of those wounds, was interred with military hon ours. The missing transport of the fleet, with troops on board, arrived safe in Boston harbour, and the troops marched to Rhode Island. 19th.--— Our General dined with the Count. 20th. — The frigates of the squadron came to sail in the morning; but the wind being ahead, they were obliged to come to anchor. Intelligence was received that Admiral Graves, with five or six sail of the line, arrived at Sandy Hook on the 13th. On the 21st, in the afternoon, 15 or 16 sail of British ships of war appeared in the offing ; more than one half of them were supposed to be ships of the line. At sunset, they appeared to be coming to under Block Island. The frigates, which attempted to get out in the morning, re turned at evening. Apprehending that the British fleet might be cruising off, with a view to intercept the second division of the French fleet, which was expected soon to arrive, our Gen eral sent off expresses to head-quarters, Boston and Hart- ford,advising of the British fleet being off Newport — that dispatch boats might be sent out to apprise the French, and point them to another port. Several works and bat teries next to the harbour, were mantled with cannon. 22d. — The British fleet were cruising off all the day, and rather nearer than they were the preceding day. Eighteen or nineteen sail were counted, eight or nine of which appeared to be of the line. The French squadron 227 kept their former station in the harbour, and in the most perfect readiness for action. The army was in the same preparedness, and batteries so constructed as to afford a heavy cross-fire with the shipping, in the entrance of the harbour. All vessels and boats were forbid passing out of the harbour in the night. 23.— The British were cruising off — early in the morn ing one of their frigates was near in. Col. Greene's1 regi ment of Continental troops took post at Butt's Hill, Bris tol and Howland's Ferries. Fifty French soldiers from the nrmy were sent on board each of the ships of the line. By accounts from West Point, it appeared that many re cruits had joined and were joining the American army. 24th. — The British fleet continued off Newport. In the afternoon, 12 sail were at anchor to the east of Block Is land and four frigates cruising between that Island and Point Judith. In the evening, the Marquis de la Fayette came to town, from head-quarters. 25th. — Intelligence was received, that Sir Henry Clinton intended an attempt upon the French army, with 10,000 men ; upon which 1500 of the militia of Rhode Island, and Brigadier Godfrey's2 brigade of militia, of the county of Bristol, in Massachusetts, were called in to Tiverton ; and the three months' men, who were destined to the main army, such of them as belonged to the counties of Suffolk, Essex, Plymouth, Worcester, Barnstable and Bristol, were ordered to march to Rhode Island. 26th. — A confirmation of the intention of Sir Henry Clinton against Newport was received from the neighbour hood of New York. In consequence of which the whole militia of the State of Rhode Island was called in. Col. Tyler's3, Col. Perry's4, and Maj. Bullard's5 militia regi- 1 Christopher Greene, 1st Rhode Island. He was killed in West chester County, N. Y., May 14, 1781. 2 George Godfrey (1720-1793), Brigadier of Massachusetts militia. 3 Col. Nathan Tyler. 4 Col. Abner Perry. 5 Probably Moses Bullard of Col. Ebenezer Thayer's regiment. 228 ments, in addition to Brigadier Godfrey's, from Massa chusetts. Signals were fixed as far as Watch Hill, and everything put in train for the giving instant notice, both by day and night, in case the enemy should approach to wards the place. 27th. — The wind being fresh at south-west, and the air hazy, the privateer ship Washington, Capt. Munroe, ran by the British fleet, and passed up the harbour. The stock on Conanicut Island was ordered to be taken off. How- land's Ferry was to be well secured on both sides. 30th. — Intelligence was received, that the enemy's ship ping, which were in the Sound, and supposed to have taken in troops at Whitestone, had come to sail, and stood to the westward; on which, the militia who were coming in, ex cept the three months' men, were permitted to return home. The militia had discovered great zeal and alertness on the occasion. About noon, the British ships that had been at anchor off Block Island, came to sail and stood out to sea. The same day a brig, with dispatches from France, passed up the harbour ; she ran on one of the wrecks, and sunk immediately. 31st. — Our General received letters from Gen. Wash ington, Gen. HoAve, Gen. Parsons, and Gov. Trumbull, in timating that the enemy intended an attack on Newport; that about 150 sail of vessels were in the Sound ; that about 8000 troops were to be employed on the expedition; and that Gen. Sir Henry Clinton was to command in person; that 26 heavy cannon, some mortars, &c. were put on board. In consequence of this intelligence, the militia were again called in. The next day (August 1st.) our General re ceived the following letter from Gen. Washington. Robinson's House, July 31, 1780. "Dear Sir, I arrived here last night; having met your favours of the 25th and 26th at Paramus, where the army then lay. Immediately upon hearing that the transports, with the 229 troops, which had been some days on board, had sailed eastward, I put the army in motion again ; they will cross the ferry to-day, and will be joined by the troops from hence. I propose moving as rapidly as possible down to wards Kingsbridge, which will either oblige the enemy to abandon their project against Rhode Island, or may afford us an opportunity of striking them to advantage in this quarter, if Sir Henry Clinton has carried with him the number of men reported (eight thousand) and with less than which, I think, he would scarcely risk an attempt upon Count Rochambeau, reinforced by the militia. I entirely approve of the measures you have taken for calling in aid, and have the strongest hopes that if Sir Henry should venture upon an attack, that he will meet a reception very different from what he expects. You know the critical situation in which this army will be in a posi tion below, and how much depends upon constant intelli gence of the motions of the enemy. I shall direct relays of expresses the whole way, between this army and you, to convey intelligence in the most expeditious manner. The nearest express to you will be upon Tower Hill ; and Gen. Greene advises that you should keep two whale-boats, to communicate with him, by South Ferry, so long as that passage shall be safe; and if that should be interrupted, by Bissell's Harbour. (Signed) Gm WasHington. " P. S. — I wish the Count de Rochambeau had taken a position on the main. G. W." The militia came in with great spirit ; they were formed into brigades, and every disposition made for instant and vigorous defence, at every point where it was supposed an attempt might be made. The batteries were strength ened, a very strong one erected on Rhode Island, and re doubts on Coaster's Island : the strong works on Butt's Hill pushed : avenues across the fields, by the shortest routes, were opened, from the encampment of the French army to those points where their instant presence was 230 judged necessary; and such marks fixed, at small dis tances from each other as to prevent any mistake in the route, either by day or night; indeed, no one precaution was omitted, or probable advantage of ground or situation neglected. Had Sir Henry made the attempt which he menaced, he would undoubtedly have met a warm recep tion ; but for some reason or other he gave up his design, and the militia were again sent home. Perhaps on no oc casion did the militia discover more ardour, in pressing to the field, or more regularity when there, than at that time, which was everywhere testified by the inhabitants. Our General had expressed a wish to the Commander in Chief to join the main army, that he might enjoy that com mand, to which he was at that time entitled, viz. the right wing ; to which Gen. Washington, in a letter dated August 3d, replied: " As to your coming on to the army immediately, I shall leave it entirely to yourself to act in the affair as you please. Your command is, and will always be ready for you; however, if you find your presence where you are necessary, and that it will contribute to the accommoda tion of our allies, and to the cultivation of harmony, (mat ters about which I am very anxious) it may possibly be more eligible for you to remain longer, as we shall not probably have any instant active operations, But, as I have already said, do in the matter as you like, and as cir cumstances may decide." And in a subsequent letter some days after, he observed, " As to your wishes to join the army, as I observed before, your aid may be very material to the Count ; and as we have no prospect of immediate active operations, I would rather wish you to remain with him longer. I thought it essen tial in the first instance that there should be an officer of rank sent to him; and a variety of reasons concurred to induce me to believe that you would answer the important objects I had in view, as well at least as any I could choose. I have not been disappointed in the least in my expecta- 231 tion, and the Count himself judges your continuing very essential, and expressed himself in the following manner upon the subject several days ago : ' J shall keep with me if you think proper, Gen. Heath, whose ardour, spirit and activity are absolutely necessary to me.' For these sev eral considerations, I wish you to reconcile yourself to re maining with him awhile, which will be more easy when you consider that you will be fully advertised whenever we are in a situation to attempt any thing offensive on a great scale, and will have your command." The British ship-of-war, Galatea, appeared off Dart mouth. The British fleet went to Gardiner's Bay, except ing the frigates, which cruised off. The troops continued fortifying the island. 15th. — About this time the British fleet sailed 'rom Gar diner's Bay to the eastward. About this time, Maj. Gen. Greene resigned the Quarter-Master Generalship, and Col. Pickering was appointed to that office. 19th. — In the afternoon the British again appeared off the harbour of Newport. A few days before, the Con tinental frigate Alliance arrived at Boston, in five weeks and four days from France, and brought news that there had been a great mob in England, headed by Lord George Gordon, and that the prisons, &c. had been pulled down. 23d. — The privateer ship Washington, Capt. Talbot,1 of 20 guns, came down the river, saluted the Commodore, and came to anchor. 24th. — The French army, joined by the Americans, fired salutes on account of its being St. Louis' day. The fleet fired on the next day. The enemy were preparing for an embarkation of troops at New York; their destination unknown. The evening of the 20th, three or four of the enemy's cruisers were off the harbour. 26th. — The British fleet, to the number of more than 20 sail, were in the Vineyard Sound, 1 Silas Talbot, afterwards Commodore. 232 29th. — A number of Indians from the northwestern tribes came to Newport to pay their respects to the Gen eral of the army of their father the King of France. They had a hearty welcome, a treat, and presents, and were much pleased. They were also invited by our General to a sumptuous treat. After dinner they performed their war dance felfore the officers of the armies, to the great satisfaction of those of the French, who had not seen the like before. The next day the French troops were under arms, manoeuvred, and fired, in presence of the Indians, who were much pleased. 31st. — Information was received that Admiral Arbuth not was near the Vineyard with nine sail of the line, eight other ships of war of different force, and two tenders ; that he had made a demand of 11,000 lb. of beef and mutton, to be delivered every other day, at five pence per lb. The in habitants remonstrating against furnishing so large a quantity, the Admiral assured them that in case they vol untarily delivered as much as their ability would allow, he would dispense with what might be wanting. The enemy continued their preparations for some grand enterprise, which could not be developed. September 10th. — The British fleet were returned again to Gardiner's Bay, and their old station between Long Is land and Block Island. 11th. — Intelligence was received that on the 16th ult. Major-General Gates was totally defeated by the British, at or near Camden, in South Carolina. The Maryland line suffered greatly, and Maj. Gen. Baron de Kalb was wounded, of which wounds he died. 14th. — Intelligence was received that Brig. Gen. Poor, of New Hampshire, died at camp on the 8th, of a putrid fever; and that Brig. Gen. Nixon had resigned his com mission. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton was holding a body of troops, said to be about 6000, in readiness to embark at New York, said to be destined to the southward. The 17th, in the morning, the Continental regiment commanded by 233 Colonel Greene, crossed over from the island to Greenwich, from whence they were to march to the main army. 21st. — Intelligence was received that Admiral Rodney arrived at Sandy Hook on the 13th, with ten sail of the line, and two frigates — that on the 15th, Commodore Drake, with four sail of the line, was detached from the Hook to join Admiral Arbuthnot near Gardiner's Island, and that these four ships joined on the 18th. This junc tion was intended to intercept 12 sail of the French men-of- war, which were to be expected to be coming from the West Indies to Rhode Island — that the 76th and 80th British regiments, one Hessian regiment, the Queen's Rangers, Fanning's corps, a part of the horse, and all the British grenadiers and light infantry, were ordered to em bark immediately at New York — it was conjectured for Virgmia. The disposition of the British troops at that time was said to be as follows: the 22d, 76th British, 3 Hessian regiments, Robinson's corps, and some artillery in the city — Highland emigrants, at Brooklyn — a few in valids at Newtown — one regiment of Hessians at Jamaica — the 37th, 38th and 43d British, one Hessian regiment, one Jager, one grenadier, and one light infantry from Ja maica to Flushing — about three regiments at Whitestone — Queen's Rangers, Oyster Bay — Fanning's regiment, the 3d regiment of Delancey's, and the Jersey volunteers, Lloyd's Neck — Col. Abercrombie, with about 600 infantry, at Huntington — the 17th dragoons at Smithtown — about 1500 men from Haarlem to Kingsbridge. At this time, the Count de Rochambeau and Admiral de Ternay had an in terview with Gen. Washington at Hartford. 22d. — Col. Greene's regiment was ordered to return from Greenwich to the island. The French army continued very busy in fortifying Rhode Island : some of their works were exceedingly strong, and mounted with heavy metal. 24th. — In the evening, Gen. Rochambeau and the Ad miral returned to Rhode Island. 30th. — A French frigate arrived at Newport from the 234 West Indies, but brought no news of consequence. The Count de Guichen, instead of coming this way with the fleet from the West Indies, was going or gone for Europe. While Washington was in interview with General Rochambeau at Hartford, Maj. Gen. Arnold, who had the immediate command of West-Point, was playing a most traitorous game with the British, for the delivery of that important post into their hands — which was communi cated to our General by the Commander in Chief, in the following letter : Robinson's House, Sept. 26, 1780. " Dear Sir, In the present situation of things, I think it necessary that you should join the army; and request that you will do it. You will come to head-quarters yourself. The route through Litchfield will be the most eligible for you, on ac count of security; and you may direct your baggage to halt at Fish-Kill, for your further orders. I write to the Count de Rochambeau by this conveyance; and I trust that your coming away now, will not be attended with any material inconvenience to him. I cannot conclude without informing you of an event which has happened here, which will strike you with as tonishment and indignation : — Maj. Gen. Arnold has gone to the enemy. He had had an interview with Major Andre", Adjutant-General of the British army, and had put into his possession a state of the army of the garrison of this post, of the number of men considered as necessary for the defence of it; a return of the ordnance, and the disposition of the artillery corps, in case of an alarm. By a most providential interposition, Major Andre" was taken in re turning to New York, with ail these papers in Gen. Ar nold's hand- writing ; who, hearing of the matter, kept it to himself, left his quarters immediately, under pretext of going over to West Point, on Monday forenoon, about an hour before my arrival; then pushed down the river in 235 the barge, which was not discovered till I had returned from West Point in the afternoon, and when I received the first information of Mr. Andre's capture. Measures were instantly taken to apprehend him; but, before the officers sent for the purpose could reach Verplank's Point he had passed it with a flag, and got on board the Vulture ship of war, which lay a few miles below. He knew of my approach, and that I was visiting, with the Marquis, the north and middle redoubts; and from this circumstance was so straightened in point of time, that I believe he carried with him but very few, if any, material papers; though he has very precise knowledge of the affairs of the post. The gentlemen of Gen. Arnold's family, I have the greatest reason to believe, were not privy in the least degree to the measure he was carrying on, or to his escape. (Signed) G. Washington." Gen. Arnold's panic was so great when he found that the plot was discovered, that he called out for a horse, any horse that first came to hand, if it were a wagon-horse; upon the horse's being brought, the General mounted, and, instead of passing to the landing by the usual path, he rode down a steep bank, where it seemed impossible for a horse with a rider to get down, without being un horsed. When Arnold had passed Verplank's Point, and had got under the guns of the Vulture, he told Corporal Lar- vey, who was coxswain of the barge, that he was going on board the ship, and that he should not return; that if he (Larvey) would stay with him, he should have a com mission in the British service. To this, Larvey, who was a smart fellow, replied, that he would be d d if he fought on both sides; the General replied, that he would send him on shore. Arnold then told the barge crew, that if any or all of them would stay with him, they should be treated well; but if they declined staying, they should be sent on shore. One or two staid, the rest, with the cox- 236 swain, were sent on shore in the ship's boat; the barge was kept. Larvey, for his fidelity, was made a Sergeant. He thought he had merited more; that he ought to have had as much as Arnold promised him. He continued un easy, until at his repeated request he was allowed to leave the army. Maj. Andre", on his return towards New York, fell in with three young men below the lines, John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wert; they did not at first know that Andre" was a British officer^ and he was at a loss whether they were British, refugees, or staunch Americans. There was consequently a little finesse ex hibited on both sides ; but at length it was fully discovered who Andre" was. He then attempted to bribe the young men, by offering them a large sum of money; but their fidelity was too great to be purchased. They brought him up, and delivered him to the Americans, where he was tried, sentenced, and hanged as a spy. The British Gen eral on the river endeavoured to save his life, first by threats, and then by persuasions; but all was in vain. Maj. Andrews behaviour, until the time of his execution, was becoming an officer and a gentleman; and such, in his last moments, as drew tears from many eyes. But it must be remembered that he who consents to become a spy, when he sets out, has by allusion a halter put round his neck, and that by the usage of armies, if he be taken, the other end of the halter is speedily made fast to a gal lows. Congress, pleased with the conduct of John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, passed a resolu tion on the 4th of October, directing that 200 dollars, in specie, should be annually paid them during life ; and that a silver medal, descriptive of their fidelity, with the thanks of Congress, should be presented to each of them. The situation of the British army and other circum- stancs at the moment Andre" was detected, were such as render it highly probable that if he had not been taken, 237 the most serious consequences to the American cause would very soon have taken place. October 1st. — The next day after our General received the letter from Gen. Washington, he took a most affec tionate leave of the French officers, and left Newport, to prepare to go on to the army. His wagon-horses were out in the country at a distance; these were to be brought in, shod, &c. and other preparations to be made, which prevented his leaving Providence until the after noon of the 9th, when he was attended out of town by a number of officers and other gentlemen. Before he left Providence, he bid Count Rochambeau another farewell, by letter, to which an answer was forwarded on after him, as follows: Newport, Oct. 12, 1780 " My Dear General, 1 have received the letter that you have honoured me with from Providence. I am extremely sensible of the marks of friendship that you give me, and likewise very grateful for all that your good heart has dictated to you upon the occasion of our present separation. I regret vastly your absence, my dear General, as well as all the army; and I shall never forget the zeal, the activity, and the intelligence with which you helped us in all our operations; and the French army will always be most grateful for it. I have the honour to be, with the most in violable attachment, my dear General, your most obed ient and humble servant, (Signed) Le Count de Rochambeau." 16th. — Our General reached West Point, where he met the following letter from Gen. Washington : Head-Quarters, near Passaic Falls, Oct. 14, 1780, " Dear Sir, In my letter of the 26th ult. by which I requested you 238 to join the army, I desired that you would come yourself to head-quarters: I am now to request that you will pro ceed to West Point, and take upon you the command of that post and its dependencies. Maj. Gen. Greene, who is at present there, will either communicate to you himself, or leave with Gen. M'Dougal to be transferred, the in structions he received respecting the post; to which you will be pleased to attend. If this should not find you at West Point, it is my wish that you should arrive there as soon as circumstances will possibly admit; and I hope there will be nothing to delay it. (Signed) G. Washington." Our General had scarcely entered on the command, be fore he received intelligence that the enemy were making an incursion upon the northern frontier of New York; upon which he immediately, without consulting the Com mander in Chief, ordered Col. Gansevoort's regiment to their relief, and communicated what he had done to head quarters ; to which he received the following answer : Headquarters, Preakness, 16th Oct., 1780. " Dear Sir, I am favoured with yours of yesterday, accompanied by a letter from his Excellency Governor Clinton, who gives me an account of the incursion upon the frontiers. I am happy that you detached Gansevoort's regiment immediately; you will be pleased to order either Weisen- feld's or Willet's, as you may judge proper, to follow, and take orders from the Governor or the commanding officer. This is all the force I think we ought to detach from the posts, until the views of the enemy are more fully ascer tained. They put off the long-expected embarkation strangely. They had not sailed the 13th, and it was then said the expedition was delayed for some purpose. The number under orders, by estimate, are about 2000, or something upwards. If the militia should not have been 239 discharged, when this reaches you, you will be pleased to detain about 500, to make up for the detachment you have sent up the river. I have received yours of the 13th, as I have done that inclosing the estimates, for which I am much obliged. You will be pleased to carry into execu tion what you proposed, respecting the posts at Stony and Verplank's Point. (Signed) G. Washington." This was followed by another, dated the 18th, in which the Commander in Chief observed, " I am glad to find, by your letter of the 17th, that you were arrived at West Point, and had taken the command of that important post." This was occasioned by our General's having been on the east side of the river a day or two, until the quar ters on the point were quitted by Maj. Gen. Greene, who was ordered to the southward. On the 17th, intelligence was received, that the enemy had advanced to Fort George and Fort Ann, both of which had fallen into their hands; that after destroying the works, and burning about thirty houses, and as many barns, they had gone back; but it was apprehended that they would advance again. 19th. — Maj. Gen. Greene left West Point. The same day intelligence was received, that on the 16th the long talked-of embarkation of troops sailed from New York, supposed to be destined to the southward. The Ameri can troops at this time drove up the fat cattle which were near the lines, in consequence of a warrant from Gov. Clinton. 21st. — Intelligence was received that the enemy were meditating an excursion as far up as Crompond and its vicinity, to sweep off all the cattle. Our General immed iately ordered Col. Hazen, with a detachment of 500 men, to move to Pine's Bridge, and Lieut. Col. Jameson1, with ILieut.-Col. John Jameson of Virginia — the same whose unfortunate blunder allowed Arnold to escape. 240 the 2d light dragoons, to move from Bedford towards Col. Hazen. The detachment arrived at Pine's Bridge about 10 o'clock the same evening, and Col. Jameson with the dragoons at about 2 o'clock the next morning. The even ing of the 23d, Col. Hazen returned with the detachment ; the enemy did not come out. About this time the enemy received a small reinforce ment at NeAV York, from England, said to be 1500 or 2000. Two or three very valuable prizes, laden with rum, sugar, &c. were sent to Philadelphia, and news was received that upwards of 50 sail of British East and West Indiamen, outward bound, were taken by the combined fleets of France and Spain, near Cape Finisterre. 24th. — Intelligence was received that the enemy had laid waste a great part of the fertile country above Saratoga, and to the westward of Schenectady. The same night, 20 prisoners made their escape from the provost at Fish-Kill, by digging upwards of 20 feet under ground ; parties were sent out after them in different directions, and some of them were retaken. 26th. — News was received that the militia, under Gen. Van Rensselaer, obtained a considerable advantage over the enemy at the northward, on the 19th inst, at the Fox Mills. The action lasted for some hours; the enemy left their baggage, prisoners, &c. Col. Brown1 was killed in skirmishing with the enemy on the morning of the same day. 28th. — Official intelligence was received of a signal ad vantage gained by the Americans in North Carolina over a corps of fourteen hundred men, British troops, and new levies, commanded by Col. Ferguson. The militia of the neighboring country under Colonels Williams and Shelby and others having assembled to the number of 3000, de tached 1600 men on horseback, to fall in with Ferguson's party on its march to Charlotte — they came up with them 1 Lieut.-Col. John Brown of Massachusetts. The fight was at Stone Arabia, N. Y. , 241 at a place called King's Mountain, advantageously posted and gave them a total defeat, in which Col. Ferguson, with 150 of his men were killed, 800 made prisoners, and 1500 stands of arms taken, with but inconsiderable loss, except, and greatly to be regretted, the brave Col. Wil liams, who was supposed to be mortally wounded. A sec ond account stated the enemy's whole loss in killed, wounded and prisoners, at 1105; and that of the Ameri cans in killed and wounded, 64. 29th. — Brig. Gen. James Clinton was ordered to Albany to take the command in that quarter. 30th. — Capt. Johnson, with a detachment consisting of 100 men, marched to do duty on the lines for the protec tion of the inhabitants against the enemy, and the cow boys, (so called) a set of plundering thieves. 31st. — A ridiculous proclamation of the traitor Arnold made its appearance; he styled himself a Brigadier-Gen eral, and invited the officers and soldiers of the American army to join him, promising ample encouragement, &c. but it had no effect. November 1st. — A severe storm of snow and rain. The brave soldiers who were but illy clad, and destitute of blankets, were in a shivering condition. The devastation committed by the enemy at the north ward, was found to be very great; at least 200 dwellings and 150,000 bushels of wheat, with a proportion of other grain and forage, were supposed to have been destroyed; had not the pursuit after the enemy been very rapid, the devastations would have been much greater. The American army were at this time experiencing a great want of flour, which they bore with their usual pa tience. 4th. — Intelligence was received, that Maj. Carleton, after being reinforced with 500 men, was returning to wards Skeensborough1 ; it was supposed that his force had 1 Skenesborough, now Whitehall. 242 increased to about 1600, and further depredations on the frontiers were expected. The militia of the upper counties were again ordered out by Gov. Clinton. The same day, the new arrangement of the army was published. The encouragement to both officers and sol diers was generous. 5th. — The troops were again without bread. Intelli gence was received that the enemy had landed a body of troops at Portsmouth, in Virginia, and that another em barkation was talked of at New York. 6th. — News was received from Boston, that his Excel lency John Hancock had been chosen Governor of the State of Massachusetts — the first Governor under the new constitution. The same day intelligence was received from the northward, that the enemy had crossed Lake George the Thursday before, and advanced to Fort Ed ward, the small garrison of which abandoned the fort on the approach of the enemy, whose numbers were said to be about 800. The militia were out, and the 1st and 5th New York regiments were ordered to embark and sail for Albany immediately. They sailed early on the morning of the 9th. On the same day intelligence was received that the enemy had lately made an excursion to the upper parts of Connecticut river, and destroyed a number of houses at Royalton. The militia turned out with spirit, repulsed and pursued them ; the enemy made off with precipitation, leaving their plunder, &c. behind them. Upwards of 2000 militia were assembled in that quarter. The 2d regiment of dragoons moved from Bedford to North Castle. The enemy published several letters in the New York papers, which were taken from the Fish-Kill post-rider not long before at Stratford; in particular, one from the general officers belonging to the New England States to their several Legislatures. A partial but not general exchange of prisoners took place about this time. Maj. Gen. Lincoln was exchanged 243 for Maj. Gen. Phillips; General Thompson, and a number of American officers, who had long been prisoners, were also exchanged. 14th. — The great chain, which was laid across the Hud son at West Point, was taken up for the winter; it was done under the direction of Colonel Govion1, Capt. Buch anan2, and Capt. Nevers, with a strong detachment of the garrison, and with skill and dexterity. This chain was as long as the width of the river between West Point and Constitution Island, where it was fixed to great blocks on each side, and under the fire of batteries on both sides of the river. The links of this chain were probably 12 inches wide, and 18 inches long; the iron about 2 inches square. This heavy chain was buoyed up by very large logs of per haps 16 or more feet long, a little pointed at the ends, to lessen their opposition to the force of the water on flood and ebb. The logs were placed at short distances from each other, the chain carried over them, and made fast to each by staples, to prevent their shifting; and there were a number of anchors dropped at distances, with cables made fast to the chain, to give it a greater stability. The short bend of the river at this place was much in favour of the chain's proving effectual; for a vessel, coming up the river with the fairest wind and strongest way, must lose them on changing her course to turn the point; and before she could get under any considerable way again, even if the wind was fair, she would be on the chain, and at the same time under a heavy shower of shot and shells. 15th. — The 1st and 5th New York regiments returned from Albany, the enemy having returned to Canada, ex cept about 400 men, chiefly British, who were encamped about 10 miles below Crown Point. Provisions were ex tremely scarce at Albany. The night of the 16th, a number of the boats were stove by the violence of the wind and storm. 1 Jean Baptiste Gouvion, Rochambeau's chief of artillery. 2 Capt. Thomas Buchanan 1st Pennsylvania. (Died Oct. 13, 1803). 244 On the morning of the 18th, five large flat-bottomed boats, under the charge of a Subaltern and 25 picked watermen, were sent down the river to the slote above Dobbs' Ferry, where they were to be placed on carriages, and transported to a certain place, for an enterprise which was meditating against the enemy. 19th. — Five companies, of 50 men each, marched from West Point, for the purpose of impressing teams in the upper part of Westchester, and lower parts of Dutchess Counties, preparatory to the grand forage. The same day, the invalids of the Massachusetts and Connecticut lines, and a detachment of able-bodied men, the whole about 1000, arrived at West Point from the main army. 20th. — Three light field-pieces, with four ammunition tumbrels with ammunition for the artillery, and musket- cartridges, and also a quantity of hard bread, rum, &c. was sent down to Peek's-Kill, for the use of the grand foragers. 21st. — The troops destined for the grand forage paraded between Nelson's Point and the church. Just before they marched, Chevalier Chastellux, Major General in the French army, at Newport, and some other French officers, arrived; the detachment defiled before them, and! pro ceeded for the lines. The French officers were much pleased with the appearance of the troops. Gen. Chastellux then acompanied our General over to the Point, and on landing was saluted by the discharge of 13 cannon ; after dinner, he took a view of Forts Clin ton, Putnam, Wyllys, &c. At evening, Count Noailles, Count Damas, and Maj. Duplessis, arrived at the Point. The next morning, about 9 o'clock, Gen. Chastellux and the other French officers, amidst a severe cold storm of rain, embarked on board the barge, and went down the river to King's Ferry, on their way to head-quarters; on leaving West Point, they were again saluted by 13 cannon. The evening of the 22d, Brig. Gen. Stark arrived at 245 Wright's Mills, and the wagons were collected at North Castle. This grand forage was to mask an enterprise which was to have been attempted by Gen. Washington, from the main army; although the foraging was in itself an important object. The enterprise, for some reasons, was not attempted, but the grand forage was very success ful. Some of the light troops went as low down as East- Chester; and on the 27th, Gen. Stark returned with a large quantity of corn, some hay, cattle, &c. The next day, the main army separated to move into winter quarters, and the light infantry corps was broken up for the winter, and the men ordered to join their re spective regiments. The corps of light infantry was per haps as fine a body of men as was ever formed. Major- General the Marquis de la Fayette had, with infinite pains and great expense, endeavoured to render them re spectable in their appearance as well as discipline, in which he was nobly seconded by the officers : it was a pity that the operations of the campaign did not afford an op portunity for the Marquis to signalize himself with this corps. 30th. — The New Jersey brigade left West Point, pro ceeding down on the west side of the Hudson, on their way to Pompton, where they took winter-quarters. In the afternoon, the four Massachusetts brigades arrived at West Point, and the two Connecticut brigades on the east side of the river, where the whole took winter-quarters. A few days before, viz. on the 23d, Maj. Tallmadge, with a detachment from the 2d regiment of dragoons, con ducted with great address an enterprise against the enemy's fort, St. George, on Long Island. Fort St. George was stockaded, and encompassed a large spot of ground, a square redoubt, with a ditch and abatis. The enterprise succeeded completely. One half-pay Lieuten ant-Colonel, 1 half-pay Captain, 1 Subaltern, and 50 rank and file, were made prisoners. The fort was destroyed and burnt. Two armed vessels burnt, and a large magazine of hay, said to be about 300 tons, was destroyed, 246 December 1st. — One of the largest scows at King's Ferry, in crossing, with several baggage wagons on board, sunk. The same day, our General began to discharge the six months' men, beginning with those who were the worst clothed and unfit for duty. 4th. — The three New York regiments sailed for Albany, where they were to take winter-quarters. 5th. — Marquis la Val,1 Count de Custine, and Col. Fleury, of the French army at Newport, arrived at West Point on a visit. 6th. — At evening his Excellency Gen. Washington, ar rived at New Windsor, where he took winter-quarters. The same evening, accounts were received that there had been a terrible hurricane in the West Indies. On the evening of the 9th, Gen. Varnum and Col. Pick ering arrived at West Point; at this time the troops were without bread, and very uneasy. The next day, 300 bar rels of flour arrived. A little before noon, Gen. Washing ton visited West Point. 12th. — Intelligence was received from New York that another embarkation was to take place, and that Gen. Phillips and Gen. Arnold were to command. Major Tall madge received the thanks of Congress for his good con duct in taking Fort St. George. 17th. — An express from Major Maxwell2 on the lines, brought up intelligence that the enemy at Morrisania, under Col. Delancey, were preparing for an enterprise. The Major was cautioned to be on his guard. 18th. — News was received that Monsieur de Sartines, the primate of France had been removed — Mr. D'Cas- tries appointed. 19th. — News was received that the Hon. Henry Laurens who was sent on a mission to Holland, had been taken by 1 Marquis Laval de Montmorency. 2 Hugh Maxwell, 15th Massachusetts (died Oct. 14, 1799). 247 the British, carried into England, and closely confined. The British government talked of sending to America a large reinforcement for the next campaign. 20th. — Further intelligence having been received that Col. Delancey intended to visit our troops on the lines, in order to give him a proper reception, 150 men were or dered from the New Hampshire line to march to Crom Pond. 21st. — Intelligence was received that on the preceding Friday, the transports which had taken the troops on board at New York, fell down to the watering place. They were to be convoyed by one 50 gun ship and two frigates. On the night of the 9th, Major Hugerford1, of De lancey's corps, surprised and took prisoners Lieut. Col. Wells2, of a Connecticut State regiment, who was sta tioned near Horseneck, with one Captain, two Lieuten ants, two Ensigns, and upwards of twenty privates. 23d. — Intelligence was received that Monsieur the Chevalier de Ternay,3, Admiral of the French squadron at Newport, had died there. The troops on the lines were reinforced with 50 men, and Lieut. Col. Hull4 was appointed to the command on the lines. 27th. — The Free and Accepted Masons of Washington Lodge celebrated the feast of St. John, at Starkean Hall, West Point. 30th. — Gen. Washington visited the Point, and, with a number of other officers, dined with our General. On the 25th inst. Major Humphreys, Aid-de-camp to the Commander in Chief, went towards New York on an en- 1 Major Huggeford (as the name is generally spelled) owned a farm in Yorktown, Westchester County. It had been confiscated, and was afterwards given to ¦one of Andre's captors. 2 Levi Wells. 3 Charles Louis d'Arsac, Chevalier de Ternay, died July 10, 1780. Bull's Memoirs of Newport says he was killed in a duel with a naval officer. He is buried in Trinity churchyard, Newport. 4 William Hull, 3d Mass., afterwards Major Gen. Hull, of 1812. 248 [1780 terprise; he was attended by Capt. Welles1, of the Con necticut line, Lieut. Hart,2 Ensign M'Calpin, Mr. Buch anan, Mr. M'Guyer, and twenty-four non-commissioned officers and privates, in one barge and two whale-boats. The wind was very fresh at north-west in the night, and the boats were forced past the city, and one of them al most down to Sandy Hook— one of the boats put in: at Staten Island : at length the three went round to Bruns wick, from whence the Major and all the others returned to the army on the 1st of January. 31st. — On the evening of the 29th, a party of the enemy from Delancey's corps, consisting of about 100 infantry and 50 horse, came up to North Castle, where, after a short halt, they proceeded towards Bedford New Pur chase Capt. Pritchard3, who was posted at Bedford with a company of Continental troops, and some militia, im mediately advanced towards them, attacked their van, who retreated, as did their main body. Capt. Pritchard pursued them as far as Young's. It was said that one of the enemy was killed and several wounded, who were car ried off in a wagon. Four oxen and between 30 and 40 sheep were retaken — eight or ten head of cattle were driven off ; the Captain sustained no injury. This day the enemy were out again; Col. Hull immedi ately marched down with his whole force to meet them; by his vigilance they were prevented from doing any mis chief, and on his advance, retired towards the saw-pits.4 1781. — January 1st. — The Pennsylvania line mutinied almost to a man, seized the artillery, broke open the ma gazines of ammunition and provisions, took out what they judged necessary, and took up their line of march. The officers exerted themselves, both by threats and persuas ion, to reduce them to order; but all was in vain. They 1 Probably Captain Roger Welles of Webb's (9th Conn.) 2 Lieut. (Capt.) John Hart of Webb's. The others cannot be iden tified. 3 Capt Thomas Pritchard, 5th Mass. 4 Saw Pits is now Port Chester, N. Y. 1781] 249 were told that the enemy might take the advantage of their conduct, and come out — they answered, that if the enemy came out they would immediately put themselves under the command of their officers, and fight them; but that in any other case they would not be commanded. They took Gen. Wayne's horses out of his stable, and put them to draw the field-pieces. At night they encamped, posting out pickets, guards, and planting centinels in a very regular manner. An alarm was given to the country by firing the beacons, &c. and the militia were assembling. The reasons given for the revolt were the intolerable suf ferings of the army — the want of pay, of which 11 months was due — the want of clothing, many of the troops being almost naked — the want of provisions, and that many of them were held beyond the term of their enlistment. They directed their march towards Philadelphia, determined to demand redress of their grievances of Congress. 7th. — Maj. Gen. Knox was sent off by the Commander in Chief to the eastern States, to represent the alarming situation and sufferings of the army. 8th. — Major Throop, with 100 men, was sent towards Pompton, in the Jersies, to cover the public stores at Ringwood. In the afternoon, 169 barrels of flour arrived at the Point. 11th. — His Excellency the Commander in Chief came down to West Point, when a Council of War was held at our General's quarters, in which all the General Officers on the ground, and all the Colonels and commanding offi cers of the regiments sat, to consider what measures were necessary to be adopted, with respect to the Pennsylvania line. After the Council, by order of the Commander in Chief, our General issued orders for the forming of five battalions, by detachment from the several lines, to be held in the most perfect readiness to march on the shortest notice, with four days' provisions cooked. The mutineers remained on the heights of Princeton and two emissaries were sent out to them from the enemy, with offers, in 250 writing, promising to redress their grievances by dis charging them from their enlistments, paying all their ar rearages of pay and depreciation, and exempting them from serving in the British army, if they should choose it. The mutineers nobly disdained these offers, and gave up the emissaries and their papers: they were tried, and hanged as spies; the one was an inhabitant of New Jersey, the other was a British Sergeant. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton and Gen. Knyphausen were said to have been on Staten Island. The State appointed a Committee to inquire into the grounds of the complaints of the mutineers, and to re dress such as appeared to have foundation: this brought the business to a close. A number of the soldiers were discharged, the rest returned to their duty. Accounts were received from the southward, that the American army in that quarter were in a most miserable condition, on account of clothing and provisions, and that their sufferings were greater than those experienced by the main army. These sufferings of the army were ren dered the keener, by the return of the officers and soldiers from furlough, who had been in the great sea port towns, where every necessary and luxury of life were enjoyed in the greatest abundance, many tables groaning under the pressure of the dainties with which they were covered. Their liquors were not only the best, but also of great va riety. Such reports to men standing centinel, as it were, in the jaws of death, ill clad, cold and hungry, with noth ing but water oftentimes to drink, were trials almost too great for human nature to bear. The old Continental cur rency was fixed at 75 for one, at Philadelphia. 13th. — The Marquis de la Fayette and Count Deuxponts visited West Point. 17th. — Intelligence was received that the troops which some time before sailed from New York, were in the Chesa- peak, under the command of Gen. Arnold, and supposed to be on a plundering expedition. The enemy at New York removed the greater part of 251 their shipping from the East River round into the North River. 18th. — Two hundred men, properly officered, marched down to the lines, under pretence of being a relief; 100 men of Hazen's regiment moved from Fishkill to the vil lage, and a detachment of artillery from West Point. These were intended for an enterprise against the enemy. 19th. — 150 men from the Connecticut line, and 200 from the New Hampshire line, were to move towards the lines; these, with those who marched from Hazen's the day before, were to form a covering party to the detach ment under Lieut. Col. Hull, who was to make an attempt on Delancey's corps. 21st. — A letter was received from Major Throop, at Ringwood, stating that the evening before the Jersey line, at Pompton, had revolted, and it was supposed would be joined by the other part of the line, who were at Chat ham. Their intentions had not been developed. 22d. — His Excellency Gen. Washington, the Marquis de la Fayette, and a number of French gentlemen, visited the Point. The same day, 500 rank and file, properly officered, from the Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire lines, were detached and ordered to march the next day under the command of Maj. Gen. Howe, to establish order and discipline in the Jersies. 23d. — The detachment marched from West Point for the Jersies. The battalion from thence was commanded by Col. Sprout. The troops on the east side of the river were to cross and join those from the Point, at King's Ferry : the detachment marched in high spirits. 24th. — In the morning about sunrise, a noise was heard in the air, resembling the firing of platoons, and there were various conjectures respecting it. Intelligence was received that Gen. Arnold had gone up James River, in Virginia, and had taken possession of Williamsburg, and was moving towards Richmond ; that he met with but 252 little opposition, and would probably plunder large quan tities of tobacco and other articles. 28th. — The detachment under the command of Lieut. Col. Hull, returned from the enterprise against the enemy at Morrisania. The address and gallantry of the officers, the bravery and patience of the troops, exhibited on the occasion, did them much honour. Besides a number of the enemy who were killed, upwards of fifty were made prisoners; the pontoon bridge was cut away, the huts and forage were burnt, and a large number of cattle driven up. Of the detachment, one Ensign, one drummer, and ten rank and file, were killed ; one Captain, one Sergeant, and eleven rank and file wounded ; six rank and file were miss ing. 31st. — Maj. Gen. Howe returned with the detachment from the Jersies; order was established among the troops in that quarter : two of the ringleaders in the revolt were executed. It was learnt that considerable damage was done to the enemy's shipping at New York by the high gusts of wind, on the night of the 23d. It was also said that a British 74 gun ship was dismantled off New Lon don; another struck a reef, and a third went out to sea with one of her masts lost. February 12th. — The Duke de Lauzun, Count Pherson1 and Col. Sheldon2, of the French army, visited West Point. 13th. — Intelligence was received that on the 17th ul timo, an action3 happened near Pedee, in Carolina, be tween a body of the enemy under Lieut. Col. Tarleton, and a body of about 800 Americans, under the command of Gen. Morgan : the enemy were totally routed, and pur sued upwards of 20 miles. Of the enemy, 10 officers and 100 rank and file were killed, and 200 wounded; 29 officers 1 Count Axel Fersen, afterwards the friend of Marie Antoinette. 2 Col. Sheldon was a French officer, of English extraction. Uestre de Camp of Lauzun's hussars. 3 The battle of Cowpens. 253 and 500 rank and file were taken prisoners, with two field- pieces, 2 standards, 800 muskets, 35 wagons, 70 negroes, 100 dragoon horses, one traveling-forge, and all their music. The loss of the Americans was not more than 12 killed and 60 wounded. 14th. — General Warner1 and Col. Ashley, of Massachu setts arrived at West Point, to distribute to the soldiers of the Massachusetts line, engaged to serve during the war, 24 dollars in specie, each, as a generous gratuity from the State. The most sensible soldiers did not applaud this measure, as it did not assure to them the full payment of the wages due to them, while this boon increased the bur den of debt on the State. 16th. — Count de St. Maim2, of the French army, visited West Point. The same day, orders were issued for aug menting the light companies of all the regiments at West Point, and its dependencies, to 50 rank and file each; they were to rendezvous, the 18th or 19th, at Peek's Kill. 17th. — The light companies were formed into battalions in the following order: the eight eldest companies of the Massachusetts line to form a battalion under the com mand of Col. Vose and Maj. Galvan; the two youngest companies of that line, and those of Connecticut and Rhode Island, to form a battalion, under the command of Col. Gamat3 and Maj. Throop; those of the New Hampshire line, and Col. Hazen's regiment, and such others as might be joined to them, to form a battalion. This appointment of officers was declared to be intended not to affect the general plan of arranging the light infantry for the cam paign. The preceding morning, the enemy made an ex cursion from Morrisania towards Bedford, took Lieuts. Carpenter, Wright and Peacock* and five other inhabi tants prisoners; burnt five houses, plundered and stript 1 Seth Warner and probably Col. Moses Ashley, 5th Mass. 2 Jean B. L. P. F. d'Ollieres, Count de St. Mesme (or Saint Maime) , was colonel of the regiment of Soissonais. 3Gimat, aide to Lafayette, wounded at Yorktown. 4 Probably Richard Peacock of Malcolm's New York regiment. 254 several other inhabitants, and returned. They were pur sued by Capt. Pritchard, but could not be overtaken. 18th. — The light companies were inspected. It appeared that Admiral Arbuthnot's squadron were so much damaged in the storm on the 23d ult. as to be rendered in ferior to the French in these seas. 20th. — A detachment of artillery was ordered from the park to join the light infantry ; the whole were to be com manded by the Marquis de la Fayette, and were to march to the southward. The same day, six of our guides, on a reconnoitring party towards King's Bridge, fell in with a reconnoitring party of Delancey's corps: the guides at tacked them and took five prisoners, all of whom were wounded. 24th. — The detachment doing duty on the lines was reduced to 50 rank and file, properly officered. Capt. Paul Jones, who arrived in the Ariel, at Philadelphia on the 17th, in eight weeks from L'Orient, brought a large quan tity of powder. 28th. — Intelligence was received that a considerable embarkation of troops was taking place at New York — the inhabitants and army in some consternation. It was said that a fleet of French merchantmen had arrived in the Chesapeake; but from appearances, there were good grounds to suspect that there was something more than merchant ships. March 1st. — News was received that a part of the French squadron at Newport had sailed as far as the Chesapeake, where they took the Romulus, of 50 guns, and nine privateers and transports; four of the latter they destroyed, not having spare men to navigate them ; but the remainder, with the Romulus, had safely arrived at Rhode Island. On the morning of the 2d of March, Gen. Washington set out from New Windsor for Rhode Island. By the last accounts from the southward, Lord Cornwallis was ad vancing rapidly, and Gen. Greene retreating moderately. 255 His Lordship had destroyed his wagons, and disengaged himself of incumbrance as much as possible. 3d. — A Capt. Simmons, of Delancey's corps, was sent up to West Point; he asserted to be disaffected to the enemy on some pretences, and that he had resigned his commission, and deserted from them: he was sent to the Governor of the State. 5th. — Three prisoners were sent up; they were taken by a party of our guides within a small distance of the enemy's post, No. 8, near Morrisania. 6th and 7th. — Col. Vanschaak's1 regiment of the New York line arrived at West Point from Albany. The troops were at this time well supplied with provisions, but almost totally destitute of forage, and subjected to great fatigue in obtaining fuel, which part of the troops were obliged to bring on their backs, nearly a mile. 9th. — Intelligence was received, that the last embarka tion of British troops sailed from New York the preceding Wednesday, said to be six regiments, making about 3000 men in the whole. The southern militia had been success ful against the Cherokee Indians, and destroyed a num ber of their towns. The last advices from the southward stated that Lord Cornwallis had continued to push rapidly after Gen. Greene, who had crossed Dan River, and his Lordship had come up to it, and then began to retreat; on which Gen. Greene re-crossed the Dan, in order to pursue him, and that the militia were collecting. Gen. Arnold kept close at Portsmouth; Gen. Mecklenburgh2 was near him, with a superior force, and the Marquis de la Fayette was as far as Elk on the 3d with the light infantry. 11th. — A detachment of recruits from Massachusetts arrived. The same day, Capt. Pray3 was ordered to take command of the Block-House at Dobbs' Ferry, the water- guards, &c. 1 Van Schaick's. 2 Muhlenberg. 3 John Pray, 12th Mass. (Died Sept., 1812.) 256 On the first of this month, the Confederation and per petual Union of the Thirteen American States, from New Hampshire to Georgia, inclusive, was signed and ratified by all the Delegates in Congress. On the evening of the 12th, intelligence was received from Capt. Pray, that at about two o'clock in the morning he was alarmed by the firing of guns, blowing of horns, &c. — that the enemy were out on both sides of the river. In consequence of this, an express was sent off to Maj. Max well to be on his guard ; and a detachment of 150 men was ordered to be in readiness to march early the next morn ing, if it should be necessary to cover him. 13th. — The intelligence of the enemy being out on both sides of the river, was confirmed ; as to the west side of the river, the enemy came out from Paulus Hook about 200 strong, with two field-pieces, and had advanced within about three miles of the Block-House at Dobbs' Ferry. About noon a detachment of 150 men, under the command of Maj. Graham, with one field-piece, embarked on board a sloop, and with the gun-boat, having one six and one three pounder, and a flat boat, fell down the river to King's Ferry, where they were ordered to debark and make a movement to Tappan, for the relief of the Block-House. The garrisons of the redoubts on the east side were doubled. 14th. — About noon, Maj. Graham returned; he had, with the detachment, embarked the preceding day, pro ceeded to King's Ferry, disembarked, marched to Haver straw, where he met the militia returning; when he re turned to the Ferry, re-embarked, and arrived at West Point about noon; having exhibited a spirit and expedi tion that did the detachment much honour. The enemy were completely defeated in their design by the militia, who early turned out, attacked, repulsed, and pursued them, until they retook all their plunder ex cept two horses, and justly merited high commendation. The militia had one man wounded; the enemy were sup- 257 posed to have had several killed and wounded. The same day, Brig. Gen. Hand was announced, in general orders, Adjutant-General of the army, in the room of Col. Scam- mell, who had discharged the duty of that office for some time, to great acceptation. Col. Scammell joined his regi ment. 15th. — Intelligence was received that the enemy's fleet, which had sailed from New York the preceding week, re turned on Sunday, having found that the French fleet were on the coast ; their return occasioned some consterna tion at New York. The same day, news reached the army that Brig. Gen. Peleg Wadsworth, who commanded some militia levies in the eastern parts of Massachusetts, had been surprised and taken prisoner in the night by two British officers and some refugees, at a place called Camden.1 16th. — It was learnt that the French fleet, with troops, sailed from Rhode Island on the 8th ; and it was said that Admiral Arbuthnot, with the British fleet, came out of Gardiner's Bay on the 10th. The small pox at this time made its appearance in the vicinity of the army and sev eral soldiers were taken down with that distemper. The enemy who were out a day or two before, on the east side of the Hudson, did no mischief. About this time a dis covery was made that a number of persons at Stratford, Norwalk, &c. had been secretly associating to submit to the enemy if a favourable opportunity presented; and to supply them with provisions, furnish intelligence, &c. 19th. — Letters from Gen. Greene, of the 28th ult. at Highrock Ford, on Haw River, advised that Lord Corn wallis had retreated from Hillsborough, and that Gen. Pickens and Col. Lee had fallen in with Col. Hamilton's corps (rising of 200) and had killed and taken almost every individual of them; and that several other skirm ishes had happened, but nothing decisive. Lord Corn- 1 Maine. See Dwight's " Travels in New England," Vol. 2. 258 wallis had erected the royal standard at Hillsborough and issued a vain proclamation, as usual. By accounts from New York, it appeared that the Brit ish had declared war against the Dutch, and had taken possession of St. Eustatia. 20th. — In the afternoon, Gen. Washington arrived at head-quarters, at New Windsor, from the eastward. 21st. — Five prisoners of war were sent to West Point: they were taken by some of the light parties below the lines; a sixth who was taken was so badly wounded as to be left behind for the present. 22d. — Several resolutions of the State of Massachusetts in favour of the line of the army, and for the discharge of governmental securities, were received at West Point. 23d. — Intelligence was received that the British fleet which sailed from New York some time before, and had been chased back by the French fleet, sailed again on the preceding Wednesday for the southward. It was said that Sir Henry Clinton was on board, and that Gen. Knyp hausen was to command in his absence — that the enemy were collecting a number of flat-boats in Spuyten Duyvil Creek, near Kingsbridge, and that 24 were then collected — that Arnold's corps was under orders to be in readiness to man the boats. Two spies were sent out of New York the same day the fleet sailed; they were to pass, by dif ferent routes, through the country to Canada. 24th.— -A number of prisoners of war, who had been col lected at West Point, were sent off under a guard of 60 men, commanded by Capt. Pope1, to Lancaster, in Penn sylvania. 28th.— The New Hampshire brigade were ordered to do duty on the lines; and the Rhode Island regiment to return to their quarters near Robinson's Mills. 29th. — News was received from Philadelphia that the French and English fleets had had an engagement off the 1 Isaac Pope, 4th Mass. 259 Capes of Virginia, but that the issue was not known. The same day, intelligence was received from New York, that one of Admiral Arbuthnot's ships had returned to New York on Monday, and reported that there had been an en gagement beween the two fleets, and that it was a drawn battle. 31st. — A New York paper of the 28th was received, in which it was said that an engagement between the two fleets took place on the 16th, off the Capes of Virginia, in which several ships on both sides received considerable damage; and that the British had 1 Lieutenant, 2 mid shipmen, and 40 seamen killed, and 80 wounded. The French account was not greatly different from that of the British, but did not mention the number of killed or wounded. A number of American soldiers who had not had the small pox, were collected and inoculated. April 3d. — Intelligence was received, that a battle had been fought between Gen. Greene's army and that of Lord Cornwallis. The action was bloody; and although his Lordship may be said to have gained the victory, as Gen. Greene retreated a mile from the field of battle, yet it was a dear bought victory. Gen. Greene having lost his horses, 4 pieces of cannon fell into the hands of the enemy. Some of the British corps, and in particular the Guards, suf fered much. This day, Capt. Pray, of the water-guards, was reinforced with a whale-boat, a Subaltern, and 14 men. 4th. — Gen. Washington visited the Point. In the after noon, 2 prisoners of war were sent up — they were of a party who had crossed Croton River and taken 16 head of cattle and four horses. On their return, near Dobbs' Ferry, they were overtaken by a party of the militia — the cattle etc. retaken, and two of the party made prisoners. About this time, the southern mail was carried off, between head quarters and the Jersies. The mail contained some letters of importance. The troops which had sailed from New York arrived safe in the Chesapeake. 260 7th. — Private intelligence was received, that four par ties were to be sent out — one to take Gen. Washington, another the Governor of New Jersey, a third the Governor of New York, the object of the fourth not known. The same day, the gun-boat was ordered to take a station op posite Fort Mongomery; additional guards to be mounted in the night time, and patroles to pass frequently. 8th. — The enemy's flat boats, which had been collected near Kingsbridge, were removed down into the East River. 9th. — Intelligence was received from the commanding officer on the lines, that the enemy were out towards White Plains, said to be about 90 horse and 50 foot. 10th. — The great chain was hauled from off the beach near the red house at West Point, and towed down to the blocks, in order to its being laid across the river— about 280 men were ordered on this duty. 11th. — The chain was properly fixed with great dexter ity, and fortunately without any accident. 12th. — Our General visited the patients who were under inoculation with the small pox, when 500 were turned out and drawn up, all of whom were then under the operation, and in a fine way. The same day, intelligence was received that the enemy were preparing for another embarkation at New York, supposed for the southward 14th. — A groom, belonging to Col. Gunning of the 82d British regiment, came up; he deserted from his master with a very good saddle-horse, which he sold for 100 dol lars in specie. Intelligence was received that the enemy had brought a large number of wagons across the Sound from Long Island for the purpose of making a grand for age ; the covering party to consist of three or four hundred men, of different corps. 22d. — Two hundred and forty thousand dollars in new emission bills were brought to West Point, from Boston, for the troops of the Massachusetts line. 24th. — Monsieur Beville, Quarter-Master of the French army at Newport, arrived at head-quarters, New Windsor ; 261 he came on to view the roads, and determine on the best route, should the French army move that way, and to fix on proper places for magazines, etc. 26th. — Gen. Washington visited West Point, with Mon sieur Beville, etc. The next day, the latter set out on his return to Rhode Island, taking the lower road through Connecticut. Many of the soldiers who had gone through the small pox, joined their regiments the next day; of 500 who had been inoculated, four only had then died. At this time, provisions were growing very scarce at West Point, and the prospects daily growing more alarming. The magazines in Forts Clinton, Putnam, and some other of the most important works, had reserves of the best provis ions, which were not to be touched; that in case the enemy, by any sudden movement, should invest them, and cut off the communication with the country, the garrisons might be enabled to hold out, until other troops, or the militia of the country, could march to the relief of the be sieged; but unfortunately, the scarcity of provisions had become so great that even these reserves were broken in upon, and some of them nearly exhausted; when, after some other representations, our General addressed the fol lowing letter to Gen. Washington : West Point, May 6, 1781. " Dear General, I am honoured with yours of the 5th and 6th, to which I shall duly attend. I hoped I should not have been compelled again to repre sent our situation on account of provisions; but supplies of meat have not arrived — all the Irish beef in the store has been gone for some days — we are at last forced in upon the reserves ; that in Fort Clinton has all been taken out this day — the pork which was ordered to be reserved is all issued, except about 16 barrels — the boats are now up from below for provisions, with representations that they are out ; the reserves will be gone in a few days if re- 262 lief does not arrive, and hunger must inevitably disperse the troops. If the authority of our country will not order on supplies, I will struggle to the last moment to main tain the post: but regard to my own character compels me to be thus explicit — that if any ill consequences hap pen to this post or its dependencies through want of pro visions, I shall not hold myself accountable for them. I have the honour to be, &c. (Signed) W. Heath. His Excellency Gen. Washington." To which the Commander in Chief wrote the following answer : Head-Quarters, New Windsor, May 8th, 1781. " Dear Sir, Distressed beyond expression at the present situation and future prospects of the army, with regard to provis ions, and convinced with you, that, unless an immediate and regular supply can be obtained, the most dangerous consequences are to be apprehended — I have determined to make one great effort more on the subject, and must request that you will second and enforce my representa tions to, and requisitions upon the New England States, by your personal application to the several Executives, and even Assemblies, if sitting, as I suppose they will be in the course of this month. From your intimate knowledge of our embarrassed and distressed circumstances, and great personal influence with the eastern States, I am induced to commit the exe cution of this interesting and important business to you, and wish you to set out on this mission as early as may be convenient. (Signed) Geo. Washington. Maj. Gen. Heath." 263 On the next day our General received the following let ter of instructions from the Commander in Chief, viz: Head-Quarters, New Windsor, May 9th, 1781. " Dear Sir, You will be pleased to proceed immediately to the sev eral eastern States, with dispatches addressed to the Gov ernors of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts Bay, and the President of New Hampshire, on the subject of supplies for the army. The present critical and alarm ing situation of our troops and garrisons, for the want of provisions, is (from the nature of your command) so per fectly known to you, and your personal influence with the New England States is so considerable, that I could not hesitate to commit to you a negotiation, on the success of which the very existence of the army depends. The great objects of your attention and mission are, 1st — An immediate supply of beef cattle. 2d. — The trans portation of all the salted provisions in the western parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts; and 3d — The estab lishment of a regular, systematic, effectual plan for feed ing the army through the campaign. Unless the two for mer are effected, the garrison of Fort Schuyler must in evitably, that of West Point may probably, fall, and the whole army be disbanded: without the latter, the same perplexing wants, irregularities and distress which we have so often experienced, will incessantly occur, with eventual far greater evils, if not final ruin. With regard to the particular mode of obtaining and transporting supplies, I will not presume to dictate; but something must now be attempted on the spur of the oc casion. I would suggest whether it would not be expedi ent for a Committee from the several States, (consisting of a few active, sensible men) to meet at some convenient place, in order to make out, upon a uniform and great scale, all the arrangements respecting supplies and trans- 264 portation for the campaign. In the mean time, to avoid the impending dissolution of the army, the States must individually comply precisely with the requisitions of the Quarter-Master and Commissary upon them. As the salted provisions which, have been put up for the public in the eastern States, (except in the western parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts) cannot at present be transported to the army, you will obtain accurate official returns of the quantity that has been procured in the re spective States, at what places, and in whose charge it actually is; and if it should not all be collected and lodged in the deposits that have been pointed out, you will urge this immediately to be done; and that the pro visions should be repacked, stored, and taken care of in such a manner as to prevent the hazard of its being tainted or lost by the approaching hot season. I omit entering into the detail of particulars which it may be necessary to state to the respective Executives, (or Legislatures if in session) to enforce the present requisi tion, because you are as well acquainted with the circum stances of our distress, the prospects before us, and the only resources from whence we can derive relief, as it is possible for you to be. Previous to your departure you will obtain from the Quarter-Master-General and Com missary with the army, the proper estimates of supplies and transportation to be required of the several States, together with all the light and information concerning their department, which may be requisite to transact the business committed to you. After having delivered the dispatches with which you are charged, and made such further representations as you may judge necessary, you will not cease your appli cations and importunities, until you are informed officially, whether effectual measures are or will be taken, to prevent the army from starving and disbanding. What supplies in general, and particularly of beef cattle, may certainly be depended upon, to be delivered at fixed regu- 265 lar periods (monthly or weekly) at the army, during the whole campaign. When you shall have seen this business put upon the surest footing and in the best train of execu tion, (which you will endeavour to have effected as early as possible) you will be pleased to report to me, without delay, the success of your proceedings. I heartily wish you success and a pleasant journey, and am, &c. (Signed) G. Washington. P. S. — I wish attention may be paid to learn what quan tity of rum is in store, at what places, and in what manner it may be forwarded. In transportation the arrangements should be made with the States, so as to have the articles brought entirely through to the army, without having them stopped on the road. You will also be pleased to urge the forwarding the summer clothing. G. W. Maj. Gen. Heath." During the month of April, a large number of recruits from the Eastern States, to fill up their respective battal ions, arrived' at West Point. 9th. — The Commander in Chief visited West Point. 11th. — In the morning, our General left West Point, and proceeded up the river to New Windsor where he received from the Commander in Chief the dispatches addressed to the several executives of the New England States; and in the afternoon crossed the Hudson, on his journey east ward. On his reaching Fishkill, he found that Governor Clinton of New York was making every exertion in his power for the relief of the army — that he had issued im press warrants to take flour and other provisions where they could be found, &c. 14th. — He arrived at Hartford, where he found the Leg islature in session. The dispatches to Governor Trumbull were immediately presented to him, with an earnest re quest for speedy relief. This venerable patriot gave assur- 266 ance of his immediate attention and exertions, and accord ingly laid the dispatches from Gen. Washington before the Legislature, who also discovered the same noble patriotism. They inquired into the state of their treasury, and finding that it was destitute of money, except a sum appropriated to another purpose, they ordered this money to be taken, and directed Col. Champion1, one of their number, (a gen tleman remarkable for his knowledge in the state of pro visions in all the towns, skill in purchasing, and expedition in forwarding) immediately to purchase and forward on to the army 160 head of beef cattle, and 1000 barrels of salted provisions from their stores; and resolved to make every other exertion in their power to comply with the requisitions of the Commander in Chief, as they respected both fresh and salted provisions, by appointing a commit tee for a general arrangement of supplies. 16th. — Our General left Hartford, and on the 18th reached Greenwich, in the State of Rhode Island, where he waited upon Gov. Greene, and presented the dispatches from Gen. Washington. The Legislature of the State were not then in session, but Gov. Greene made the most satis factory assurances that the State of Rhode Island would adopt every measure recommended by the Commander in Chief. Our General left Greenwich the same day, and ar rived at his house in Roxbury on the evening of the 19th, and the next day waited upon Gov. Hancock at Boston, and presented the dispatches with which he was charged. The new Legislature of Massachusetts were to convene on the last Wednesday of the month. Gov. Hancock gave the fullest assurances that in the interim the Executive would do everything in his power for the immediate relief of the army, by directing the several contractors of provisions in the State to forward all in their power with the utmost ex pedition. 21st. — Intelligence was received at Boston that the State 1 Henry Champion, Commissary of Issues, an extremely efficient officer. 267 ship-of-war, Protector, of 28 guns, commanded by Capt. Williams, had been taken and carried to New York. The next day intelligence was received that on the 13th, Col. Greene, of the Rhode Island regiment, who was doing duty on the lines of the American army, was surprised by a body of the enemy's horse, supposed to be about 150 dra goons, and that the Colonel, Maj. Flagg1, and two Subal terns and 27 men were killed and several wounded. Col. Greene was a brave and intrepid officer, and his loss was much regretted. The Colonel had taken post above and near to Croton River, at a place where the river was ford- able, to prevent the enemy passing up by this ford to ra vage the country. He had practised the greatest vigilance in guarding this ford in the night time, taking off the guards after sunrise, apprehending that the enemy would never presume to cross the river in the day_time; but the enemy, having learnt his mode of doing duty, on the morn ing of the 13th effected his overthrow, by crossing the ford soon after the guards had come off, and surrounding their quarters before they had an idea of any enemy being near them. In this situation, the utmost exertion could not avail them. 23d. — Our General left Roxbury on his way to New Hampshire, arrived at Exeter on the evening of the 24th, and delivered to the Hon. Mr. Weare2 the dispatches ad dressed to him. The Legislature of New Hampshire was not then in session. The next day, he had an interview with the Honorable President and the Council of Safety, when such representations, (in addition to the requisitions of the Commander in Chief) were made to them, as the exigencies of the case required ; and the fullest assurances were received, that every aid in the power of the State should be afforded. 26th. — Our General left Exeter on his return, and on 1 Ebenezer Flagg of the same regiment, the 1st Rhode Island. It was composed of negroes. 2 Meshech Weare, President of the New Hampshire Legislature. 268 the 27th arrived at his house in Roxbury. On the 29th he again waited on Gov. Hancock, and requested that the re quisitions of the Commander in Chief of the army might be predominant in all the public objects. The 30th was the General Election day in Massachusetts, and it appeared that his Excellency John Hancock was re elected Governor, who, as soon as the two Houses were or ganized, laid the requisitions of Gen. Washington before them. June 2d. — Our General was heard before a Committee of both Houses on the subject of his mission. The zeal and patriotism of the several Executives and Legislatures of the Ne^v England States, to relieve and amply supply the army with provisions, were so conspicuous on this occasion that it is not possible to say which, or whether any of them exceeded the other ; each was for making every exertion in its power ; and, to insure success to their resolutions, they all fell in with the recommendation of the Commander in Chief, and appointed committees to meet in Convention to digest and systematize the business. The Committees met accordingly at Providence, in Rhode Island, and were so fortunate in their arrangements, that the most ample sup plies of meat were afterwards furnished for the main army, and a surplus of 100 head of beef cattle weekly sent on after Gen. Washington towards Virginia, until he or dered a discontinuance of that supply, as will appear in the sequel. While the New England States were thus intent in supplying meat for the army, the State of New York was equally assiduous in furnishing flour and forage. 4th. — Intelligence was received by a vessel from the West Indies, that the Count de Grasse, with a French fleet of upwards of 20 sail of the line, had arrived in that quar ter. The same day there was a confirmation of this news, and that the fleet, with troops on board, was seen coming this way. The same day intelligence was received that there had been an action at the southward, between Gen. Greene and 269 the British army in that quarter. Gen. Greene, having reconnoitred Camden, did not think it expedient to storm the enemy's works, but retired a little back, with a view to draw the enemy out; in this he succeeded, and an action1 commenced. The Maryland troops being attacked under some disadvantage, an attempt was made to change their position; this was unfortunately taken by Gen. Greene's army for a retreat, and the whole army retreated accord ingly. Gen. Greene had 17 men killed; his retreat was about 2 or 3 miles, and the troops were in high spirits. It is always a dangerous manoeuvre to change a position in the face of an enemy; but necessity sometimes requires it. Gen. Phillips2, of the British army, had died in Virginia of a fever. 6th. — The Continental frigate Alliance arrived in Bos ton harbor from France. The Alliance had taken 6 prizes; 2 West Indiamen, 2 sloops of war, and 2 privateers. In the engagement with the sloops of war, both of which engaged the Alliance in a calm, Capt. Barry was wounded in the shoulder by a grape-shot ; the Captain of Marines, and 8 or 9 men killed, and about 20 wounded. 9th. — Orders came on from Gen. Washington, to forward with all possible dispatch all the cannon, mortars, powder, shot, shells, and other military stores belonging to the United States, which were then in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and also requesting the loan of some heavy artillery, powder, &c. of the State. The most spirited measures were taken for completing the Continental bat talions, and raising a body of militia to be in readiness to march when called for. The General Assembly of Massachusetts, in their session, at this time, passed resolutions for settling with the troops of their line to the last of the year 1780, making good the depreciation of their pay, &c. 1 This was the battle of Hobkirk's Hill, S. C. 2Major General William Phillips, whose haughty correspondence with General Heath fills so much space in previous pages. 270 21st. — Intelligence was received that the British had formed a junction of their principal force at the southward in Virginia, by which means Gen. Greene would deprive them of all their posts in South Carolina ; that on the 10th of May, Lord Rawdon was compelled to evacuate Camden with precipitation, leaving behind him 3 of his officers and 58 privates, who had been dangerously wounded, and were unable to be removed. He burnt part of the town, and some of his baggage. On the 11th of the same month, the strong post of Orangeburgh surrendered to Gen. Suniter; a Colonel, several officers, and upwards of 80 men were made prisoners. On the 12th, the garrison of Fort Motte, consisting of 7 officers, 12 non-commissioned officers, and 165 privates, surrendered by capitulation to Gen. Marion. On the 15th, Fort Granby capitulated to Lieut. Col. Lee; 1 Lieut. Colonel, 2 Majors, 6 Captains, 6 Lieutenants, 3 En signs, 1 Surgeon, 2 Sergeant-Majors, 17 Sergeants, 9 Cor porals, and 305 privates surrendered; large quantities of provisions and some military stores were taken at some of the posts. At the same time the posts of Augusta and Ninety- Six were invested by Gen. Pickens, and Gen. Greene on the 1.6th had determined to march the army to expedite their reduction. 23d. — Intelligence was received that some time before, the barracks at Fort Schuyler had taken fire and were burnt down ; and that afterwards the fort was dismantled and evacuated. The same day it was reported that the Spaniards had taken Pensacola from the British. The marine mortars, and a number of heavy iron cannon, 18 and 24 pounders, were removing from Boston to the North River, New York. The British forces in Virginia, after their junction, were said to be about 6000. The invalids, who had been doing duty in Boston, received orders to march to West Point, where the whole corps was to be col lected, and compose a part of the garrison of that post. 28th. — His Excellency the Commander in Chief was pleased to communicate to our General, that in the arrange- 271 ment of the main army the command of the right wing had been assigned to him. 29th. — A vessel arrived at Boston from Cadiz, with a quantity of clothing for the United States. This vessel brought an account, that the British had again succoured the garrison of Gibraltar, but that the Spaniards con tinued the siege. 30th. — His most Christian Majesty's frigate, the Sur- vilante1. arrived in Boston harbour from the West Indies ; on her passage had a warm engagement with a British ship- of-war, when some damage was sustained on both sides. This frigate brought news that the French had taken the island of Tobago, and had blocked up Admiral Rodney's fleet at Barbadoes. July 4th was celebrated at Boston, being the Anniver sary of the Declaration of American Independence. 6th. — Information was received that Gen. Washmgton had ordered the American troops from their several can tonments, and that the whole had assembled, and were en camped near Peek's Kill. Some of the enemy's cruisers from Penobscot were cruis ing in the Bay, where they took several vessels ; one within a league of the light-house. 11th. — Intelligence was received that there had been a skirmish between the Americans and the British, between White Plains and King's Bridge, but no particulars were received. 12th. — Our General set out from his house in Roxbury for the army. 19th. — The enemy's shipping, which were up the North River, ran down; there was a brisk cannonade at Dobbs' Ferry. 21st. — The American field artillery, which had for some days been on board vessels in the North River, proceeded downwards to the nearest landing to the army. When the enemy's shipping passed Dobbs' Ferry, on the 1 Surveillante. 272 19th, a box of powder on board the Savage ship-of-war took fire, supposed by the bursting of a howitzer shell, on which a number of the crew, apprehending that the ship would blow up, jumped overboard into the river. An American, who was a prisoner on board, jumped overboard at the same time, and swam on shore, relating what had happened; he also reported that the Savage was several times hulled by our shot, and must have suffered consider able loss. The late skirmish near King's Bridge was oc casioned by the American army's moving down, in order to gave the French officers a view of the British outposts near the bridge. A number of Americans were killed and woun ded by long shot from the Jagers of the enemy, who kept up a popping fire whenever they could reach our troops. 27th. — Our General arrived at the army, which was en camped at Phillipsburg, in two lines ; the park of artillery in the centre of the second line. Accounts had been re ceived from the southward that the enemy had no footing in Georgia, except Savannah, nor in South Carolina, ex cept at Charleston. The position which the American army now occupied was between the lines the preceding campaigns; consequently the roads and commons, as well as the fields and pastures, were covered with grass; while the many deserted houses and ruined fences depicted the horrid devastations of war. The French army, under Gen, Rochambeau, was encamped at a small distance, on the left of the Americans, in one line. 29th. — A forage was made towards Phillips's, conducted by Col. Scammell. It was said that some of the British troops had returned from the southward to New York ; and that those in Virginia were collected at Portsmouth. August. — On the night of the 3d, about 11 o'clock, the British and American guard-boats met in the river, near Dobbs' Ferry, when a considerable firing ensued; we had one man badly wounded, who died soon after. The damage sustained by the enemy was not known. 6th. — The Commander in Chief, attended by a number of 273 the General Officers, reconnoitred towards King's Bridge, covered by strong detachments of cavalry and infantry. Three ships^and a galley lay in the river between Fort Washington and Spuyten Duyvil Creek. The enemy did not make any movements. The morning of the 7th, about 2 o'clock, the army was awakened by the firing of cannon at Dobbs' Ferry; it appeared that 2 of the enemy's gun boats had come up as high as the ferry, probably to endea vour to seize some vessels or boats; on finding that they were discovered, they fired four cannon, but to no effect. Four cannon were discharged at the boats from the bat tery, on which they went down the river. Two days before, Delancey's corps ventured as far above King's Bridge as Phillips's. News was received that the great French Financier, Necker, had resigned, and that Monsieur Fleury had been appointed in his room. Capt. Saltonstall,1 formerly of the frigate Warren, who was dismissed the service on account of his conduct in the Penobscot expedition, about this time behaved most gal lantly in a privateer, on a cruise against the enemy. The American army at this time continued in the same position at Phillipsburg. The Connecticut and Rhodelsland lines, and 6 regiments of the Massachusetts line, composed the front line ; the New Hampshire line, four regiments of Massachusetts, Crane's and Lamb's regiments of artillery, with the sappers and miners, the second line; the right wing commanded by Maj. Gen. Heath, the left wing by Maj. Gen. Lord Stirling; the advance of the American army on a height a little advanced of Dobbs' Ferry, under the command of Col. Scammell, and Sheldon's dragoons near Dobbs' Ferry. The French army in one line on the left of the Americans, with their legion under the Duke de Lauzun, at White Plains. Gen. Waterbury2, with the mi- 1 Dudley Saltonstall, John Adams' protege, and John Paul Jones' pet aversion. 2 David Waterbery of Connecticut. 274 litia under his command, towards New Rochelle. The camps at this time swarmed with flies, which were very troublesome. 11th. — Robert Morris, Esq. the American Financier, and Richard Peters, Esq. one of the members of the Board of War, visited the army. The same day, the advance of the army took a position a little more to the northward, and the dragoons were added to Col. Scammell's command. A fleet arrived at New York from England; they brought over between 2 and 3000 Hessian recruits. 14th. — Col. Hazen's and Col. Van Schaick's regiments joined the army. A French frigate arrived about this time at Rhode Island, supposed to have brought news of the ap proach of the Count de Grasse. A few nights before, Gen. Schuyler came very near being taken and carried off from his house in Albany. In the general orders of the 15th, the army was directed to hold itself in the most perfect readiness to march on the shortest notice. 16th. — It was whispered that the Count de Grasse, with 28 sail of the line, besides frigates, with a number of land forces on board, might soon be expected on our coast, and these, with the squadron under the command of the Che valier de Barras, would make a fleet of 36 sail of the line, a force probably superior to any the British could assemble in these seas. Under prospects so flattering, the Commander in Chief determined to strike the enemy a capital blow in some quarter. To strike at their very root in New York, was a most desirable object ; but the situation of New York with Long Island, and Staten Island and the adjacent country, was such as would require a very large army to effect a complete investiture, and give a proper security against the sallies of the enemy, which, from situation, might be easily and frequently made — that such an army must be composed, in a very considerable degree, of militia, to whom the continuing long in camp had often been found 275 disagreeable, and the French were not without apprehen sions that if their fleet entered the harbour of New York, and became warmly engaged with the British ships and batteries, in the course. of those manoeuvres which it might be necessary to make, some of their heavy ships, through the want of a competent knowledge of all parts of the bay, might get aground or be damaged ; while all these incon veniences would be avoided in case Lord Cornwallis, with the British army in Virginia, were made the object, and his capture would be almost certain, while the American main army might be left in sufficient strength to act on the defensive against Sir Henry Clinton, and effectually cover the important posts in the Highlands of New York. 17th. — Gen. Washington was pleased to communicate to our General, (in confidence) his intentions, at the same time intimating to him that he should give him the com mand of the main army during his absence. The whole of the French army, with the two regiments of New Jersey, first regiment of New York, Col. Hazen's regiment, Col. Olney's regiment of Rhode Island, Col. Lamb's regiment of artillery, and the light troops under the command of Col. Scammell, were detached for the expedition against Lord Cornwallis, and the army under his command, at Yorktown, in Virginia. 18th. — Some of the corps began to move towards the ferries. The next day, the Commander in Chief was pleased to honour our General with the following : "To Major General Heath, Sir, You are to take command of all the troops remaining in this department, consisting of the two regiments of New Hampshire, ten of Massachusetts, and five of Connecticut infantry, the corps of invalids, Sheldon's legion, the 3d regiment of artillery, together with all such State troops and militia as are retained in service of those which would have been under my own command. 276 The security of West Point, and the posts in the High lands, is to be considered as the first objects of your atten tion; in order to effect this, you will make such disposi tions as in your judgment the circumstances shall from time to time require, taking care to have as large a supply of salted provisions as possible, constantly on hand; to have the fortifications, works, and magazines repaired and perfected as far as may be; to have the garrison at least, in all cases, kept up to its perfect strength ; to have the min utes, plans and arrangements, for the defence and support of this important post perfectly understood and vigorously executed in case of any attempt against it. Ample maga zines of wood and forage are to be laid in, against the ap proaching winter ; the former should be cut on the margin of the river, and transported to the garrison by water ; the latter ought to be collected from the country below the lines, in the greatest quantities possible, and deposited in such places as you shall judge proper. The force now put under your orders, it is presumed, will be sufficient for all the purposes above mentioned, as well as to yield a very considerable protection and cover to the country, without hazarding the safety of the posts in the Highlands; this is to be esteemed as it respects the friendly inhabitants and resources of the country, an ex tremely interesting object; but when compared with the former, of a secondary nature. The protection of the north ern and western frontier of the State of New York, as well as those parts of that and other States most contiguous and exposed to the ravages and depredations of the enemy, will claim your attention ; but as the contingencies which are to be expected in the course of this campaign, may be so various, unforeseen, and almost infinite, that no partic ular line of conduct can be prescribed for them — upon all such occasions you will be governed by your own prudence and discretion, on which the fullest confidence is placed; Although your general rule of conduct will be to act on the defensive only, yet it is not meant to prohibit you from 277 striking a blow at the enemy's posts or detachments should a fair opportunity present itself. The most eligible posi tion for your army, in my opinion, will be above (that is, on the north side) of the Croton, as well as for the purpose of supporting the garrison of West Point, annoying the enemy and covering the country, as for the security and repose of your own troops. Waterbury's brigade (which may be posted towards the Sound), Sheldon's corps, the State troops of New York, and other light parties may occasionally be made use of to hold the enemy in check, and carry on the petit-guerre with them ; but I would recommend keeping your force as much collected and compact as the nature of the service will admit, doing duty by corps instead of detachments, when ever it is practicable ; and above all exerting yourself most strenuously and assiduously, while the troops are in camp of repose, to make them perfect in their exercise and man oeuvres, and to establish the most perfect system of disci pline and duty. The good of the service and emulation of corps will, I am persuaded, prompt the officers and men to devote their whole time and attention to the pleasing and honourable task of becoming masters of their profes sion. The uncertainty which the present movement of the army will probably occasion with the enemy, ought to be increased by every means in your power, and the de ception kept up as long as possible. It will not be exped ient to prevent the militia, which were ordered, from com ing in, until the arrival of the Count de Grasse, or some thing definite and certain is known from the southward; and even these circumstances may, (but of this you will be advised) render it adviseable to keep the enemy at New York in check — prevent their detaching to reinforce their southern army, or to harass the inhabitants on the sea- coasts. The redoubt on the east side of Dobbs' Ferry is to be dis mantled and demolished; the platforms to be taken up, and transported up the river, if it can be conveniently done. 278 The block-house on the other side to be maintained, or evacuated and destroyed as you shall judge proper. The water-guards and other precautions to prevent surprise, you will be pleased to take into your consideration, and regulate in such a manner as you shall judge most ex pedient. You will be pleased to keep me regularly advised of every important event which shall take place in your departments. Given under my hand at headquarters, near Dobbs' Ferry, this 19th day of August, 1.781. (Signed) Geo. Washington. P. S.— By the act of Congress of the 3d of Oct., 1780, a return is to be made to them annually, on or before the first of September, of the troops belonging to the several States, that requisitions may be made for completing the same. This you will please to have done by the troops under your command. The preservation of the boats is a matter of very great importance, to which you will attend. Let all the new boats, and such others as are not absolutely necessary, and allotted to the service of the garrison, be hauled up, and put under the care of a guard, so that the person to whom they are committed shall be accountable for every boat. The abuses committed by people belonging to commis sioned whale-boats on Long Island ought to be inquired into and suppressed, especially as Congress have ordered th6se commissions to be revoked. G. W." 19th. — About noon, his Excellency Gen. Washington left the army, setting his face towards his native State, in full confidence, to use his own words, "with a common bless ing," of capturing Lord Cornwallis and his army; while our General was left to watch Sir Henry Clinton, and guard against those attempts which it was probable he would make to succour Cornwallis direct, or by making 279 such other movements as might tend to induce Gen. Wash ington to give up his object, or avail himself of some im portant posts in his absence. Sir Henry Clinton was con sequently on the rack, to devise something which should effect his purpose; a stroke at the posts in the Highlands, Connecticut, New Jersey, Albany and Philadelphia, was contemplated. Against all this had our General to guard — let impartiality judge, and candour decide on his con duct. On the morning of the same day, the French army inarched from their encampment towards King's Ferry, where they were to cross the river. The American park of artillery, Col. Olney's regiment, and the New York regi ment decamped and moved the same way. 20th. — A little after noon, our General ordered off the baggage to the strong ground near Young's, which at about 6 o'clock was followed by the army, marching by the left in one column, which took a strong position during the night. The pickets after dusk were drawn back a little to the northward of the former encampment. The advanced parties under Maj. Scott1 were ordered to join their re spective regiments, and Sheldon's horse to patrol in the front. 21st.— Col. Putnam, with 320 infantry, Col. Sheldon's horse, and two companies of the New York levies, were ordered to form an advance for the army, and remain at or near their present ground. About 12 o'clock at noon, the army took up its line of march, and halted at night on the lower parts of North Castle. Two regiments had been detached on the march to Sing-Sing church, to cover a quantity of baggage belonging to the French army, assist in removing it, &c. and a detachment was sent to the New Bridge, to secure a quantity of flour lodged near that place. 22d. — The army marched from North Castle, and en camped at Crom Pond ; all the French stores at Tarrytown and Sing-Sing had been secured. 280 23d. — The army marched from Crom Pond, and took a strong position at Peek's Kill; the first line encamping before the village, and the second behind it. After the troops were encamped, 80 wagons were sent off to assist in forwarding the stores of the army with Gen. Wash ington. Intelligence was received that a frigate and store- ship had arrived at Boston from France, with military stores, &c. for the United States. 24th. — The French troops had not all passed the Ferry — 150 Americans were sent to aid them, and at evening 150 more. Intelligence was received that a large French fleet had been seen standing for the continent. 26th. — The whole of the French army had crossed the river. Gen. Washington was as far as Ramapo in the fore noon. Six deserters came in from the enemy, and three prisoners of war belonging to Delancey's corps were sent up; they had taken and were driving off about 30 sheep, which were recovered. 27th. — Dispatches were sent off to Gov. Trumbull at Hartford, and Gov. Hancock at Boston. A heavy cannon ade was heard towards New York, from early in the morn ing till two in the afternoon, supposed to be off at sea. 30th. — At evening a detachment consisting of 250 men, marched towards the New Bridge, where wagons were col lected for the grand forage, which was to be covered by this detachment and the troops on the lines — the whole under the command of Col. Greaton. By the last accounts Gen. Washington was as far as Chatham, in the Jersies. 31st. — Colonel Laurens passed the army on his way from Boston to Philadelphia; he had brought from France a large sum in specie for the United States. Col. Laurens reported the friendly disposition of the European powers towards the United States; that Great Britain continued to stand without a single ally, nor could she obtain one in the war in which she was engaged. September 1st.— The foragers returned with 42 loads of hay. A Hessian rifleman came in with his rifle. 281 The same day letters were received from Gen. Washing ton, dated at Trenton, the 29th ult. mentioning that a British fleet of 15 sail of the line had arrived at Sandy Hook from the West Indies. The same evening, about 40 Indians, from the Oneida and other neighboring tribes, came to the army, on their way after Generals Washington and Rochambeau. 2d. — Intelligence was received from New York that a fleet, under the command of Admiral Sir Samuel Hood, had arrived at Sandy Hook from the West Indies, con sisting of 14 sail of the line, three 44 gun ships, one of 28, sloop and fire-ship. The ships of the line were, Bar- fieur, of 90 guns, Princess, Invincible, Alcide, Alfred, Ajax, Resolution, Centaur, Intrepid, Terrible, Montague, Shreiosbury, Belliqueax, and , 74 guns each. It was said that the first battalion of Royals, 13th and 69th Brit ish regiments came in the fleet. 3d. — Intelligence was received, that General Washing ton was at Philadelphia the preceding Friday, and that his army was to march from Trenton, as yesterday. 4th. — Intelligence was received from New York that the British fleet had sailed to counteract the French. The day before, the southern post-rider, with the mail, was stopped near Pompton in the Jersies, and the mail carried off ; the horse was left in the road. The same day a fleet of 26 sail, some of which were large, passed Stamford to the eastward. 6th. — Intelligence was received from New York that an embargo was laid on the shipping there and that 6 British transports had been taken by the French. The enemy's shipping in the North River above Fort Washington had all gone down. 7th. — Intelligence was received from New York, that the Count de Grasse had arrived in the Chesapeake on the 31st ultimo ; that a 64 gun ship and a frigate had entered York River ; that Lord Cornwallis was preparing for a vigorous defence; and that 6 sail of victuallers had been taken by 282 Admiral Barras. A heavy cannonade was heard the day before towards the Hook. The same day there was much passing between the city and Fort Washington, which oc casioned a great rising of dust, visible at a great distance ; and there was rumbling of carriages in the night. Mr. Rivington, in his paper, observed the present to be the most interesting and critical era of the war. The same evening a detachment marched from our army for a grand forage. 8th. — Two companies of Col. Weissenfel's1 regiment were ordered to Albany to cover that city against the de signs of the enemy. The same evening, our General re ceived a letter from Gen. Washington, dated at the Head of Elk the preceding day, in which he observes, "I have it now in my power to congratulate you on the arrival of Count de Grasse with 28 ships of the line and some frigates, in the Chesapeake, with a body of land forces on board, which he debarked immediately on his arrival. On his pas sage, he took Lord Rawdon, who was bound from Charles ton to England. This arrival, with Col. Laurens, from France, must fill the United States with the most happy prospects and expectations." * * * I am thus far on my way to Virginia with the troops under my command; we are now embarking the heavy baggage, stores, and some of the troops." * * * I must beg of you not to forget sending the quantity of beef I requested, as I must at pres ent altogether depend on that supply." The same day intelligence was received that the enemy's fleet, which had sailed up the Sound on the 4th, had made a descent on New London. At evening, Maj. Tallmadge, with 20 cavalry and 200 infantry, was ordered, to move im mediately towards the Sound. The preceding day, about 30 sail of the enemy's vessels passed the Sound towards NeAV York. On the morning of the 9th the foragers returned with 28 loads of hay. 10th. — Intelligence was received from Governor Trum- 1 Lieut.-Col. Frederick Weissenfels, 4th N. Y. 283 bull, that the enemy had made a descent on New London, on the evening of the 6th Avith about 2000 infantry and 300 iight horse. Their fleet consisted of about 40 sail of ships- of-war and transports; they plundered the inhabitants of property to a large amount, and burnt a great part of the town. The militia behaved very gallantly, and a number of very valuable citizens were killed; among others, Col. Ledyard, Captains Saltonstall and Richards1. The enemy, in three assaults on the fort on Groton side of the river, were repulsed, but on the fourth attempt carried it. The militia collecting in greater numbers, with some pieces of artillery, the enemy retreated on board their shipping. Part of the American shipping in the harbour were scut tled and some were run up the river. In Governor Trum bull's letter, the enemy were charged with behaving in a wanton and barbarous manner ; and that of between 70 and 80 men who were killed, three only Avere killed before the enemy entered the fort, and the garrison had submitted; that on Col. Ledyard's delivering his sword reversed to the commanding officer who entered the fort, the officer im mediately plunged it in the Colonel's body, on which sev eral soldiers bayoneted him. It is also asserted, that upon the foregoing taking place, an American officer, who stood near to Col. Ledyard, instantly stabbed the British officer who stabbed the Colonel ; on which, the British indiscrim inately bayoneted a great number of Americans. This expedition Avas commanded by Arnold. The Brit ish loss was very considerable in killed and wounded; among the former was Major Montgomery. Arnold him self continued on the New London side, and while his troops were plundering and burning, was said to have been at a house where he was treated very politely; that while he was sitting with the gentleman2 regaling himself, the 1 Peter Richards was a captain of Massachusetts militia. 2 This citizen was Christopher Christophers. His house, which is still standing, is known as the Vinegar House, from the fact that he used the contents of a tank of vinegar in extinguishing the burning house of a neighbor, on that day. 284 latter observed that he hoped his house and property would be safe; he was answered that while he (Arnold) was there it would not be touched; but the house, except the room in which they were, was soon plundered, and found to be on fire. During the plunder of the town, the British ( as is al ways the case in a plunder) were in great confusion, set ting their arms against trees and fences, while they were collecting and carrying off their plunder; in this situation they might have been easily defeated; nor would it have been the first time that an army in possession of victory lost it in this way ; hence, by the articles of war, "If any of ficer or soldier shall leave his post or colours to go in search of plunder, he is liable to suffer death for the offence." It is not meant to exculpate or to aggravate the conduct of the enemy on this occasion — but two things are to be re membered : first, that in almost all cases the slaughter does but begin when the vanquished give way; and it has been said, that if this was fully considered, troops would never turn their backs, if it were possible to face the enemy : Sec ondly, in all attacks by assault, the assailants, between the feelings of danger on the one hand, and resolutions to over come it on the other, have their minds worked up almost to a point of fury and madness, which those who are assailed, from a confidence in their works, do not feel ; and that con sequently when a place is carried, and the assailed submit, the assailants cannot simultaneously curb their fury to rea son, and in this interval many are slain in a way which cool bystanders would call wanton and barbarous, and even the perpetrators themselves, when their rage subsided would condemn ; but while the human passions remain as they now are, there is scarcely a remedy. 11th. — Arnold's fleet was still in the Sound, and further depredations were expected; they were this morning at Killingsworth, and about noon 50 sail of vessels came to anchor between Norwalk and Stamford. Major Tallmadge, who Avas returning, upon supposition that the enemy had returned to New York, was ordered back immediately. Maj. 285 Knapp1 was detached with 100 men to reinforce Col. Put nam on the lines ; and Brig. Gen. Huntington, with the first Connecticut brigade and a detachment of artillery was ordered to march towards the Sound. The same day the army moved from its encampment at Peek's Kill and took a Arery strong position on Bald Hill, where it encamped in one line, the second line forming in the centre of the first; and the 8th Massachusetts regiment was ordered to march from the army, and reinforce the garrison at West Point. 13th. — Intelligence was received that on the enemy's anchoring off Stamford, Maj. Tallmadge advanced towards the town; Gen. Huntington had advanced as far as Bed ford; and that the preceding morning the enemy's fleet came to sail and stood principally to the westward ; some of the fleet at the same time standing over to Huntington Bay, Long Island. Major Tallmadge was to remain at or near Canaan for the protection of the inhabitants; Gen. Hun tington to return to the army. The Hessian recruits, which had a little time before ar rived at New York, were very sickly, and many died. The fleet which had arrived at New York were in bad condi tion. The Prudente and Robuste lay at the ship-yard ; the Roebuck had been sent to Halifax to repair, and had not returned. Mr. Rivington, in his paper, talked of another fleet coming out, under Admiral Digby. 15th. — The enemy had still a number of troops on board their transports in the harbour. The same day intelligence was received from Canada, that the enemy were preparing a number of canoes and small batteaux at St. John's, bak ing hard bread at Montreal and forwarding it to St. John's, &c. The Cork fleet had arrived at Quebec. The same day about 40 sail of the enemy's vessels passed in the Sound to the eastward. 17th. — Intelligence was received that a brigade of troops had lately come to St. John's, from whence an incursion on our northern frontier might be expected ; on which the 1 Moses Knapp, 10th Massachusetts. (Died Nov. 7, 1809.) 286 Avhole of Weissenfels' regiment was ordered for Albany immediately; notice was also given to the eastern Gover nors, and the Brigadiers commanding the militia of the counties of Hampshire and Berkshire, in Massachusetts, requested to lend their aid, if it should be found necessary. 18th.' — A deserter came in from New York; he reported that when he left the city about 20 sail of vessels were fall ing down to the Hook, said to have troops on board. 19th. — The 2d and 5th Massachusetts regiments were ordered to go into garrison at West Point, and the 7th reg iment to join the army; it had before been in garrison. The same day, intelligence was received from New York, that there had been a naval engagement off the Chesapeake be tAveen 19 sail of British men-of-war, and 24 French ships of the line : the story was so badly told in New York, that there was good grounds to conclude that the British had received a severe drubbing. On the 17th, when a packet arrived at New York, 3000 people were said to be waiting on the wharves to learn the news, but not a word transpired nor did the countenance of the officer who landed appear to beam with smiles of fortune. The enemy had taken a number of heavy cannon from the grand battery, which were put on board ship. The troops still remained on board the transports and had fallen down to the Hook. A mortal sickness prevailed in Delancey's corps at Morrisania, which Avas much reduced in its numbers. 22d. — Intelligence was received that the British fleet had been pretty severely handled by the French, and some of the ships were considerably damaged ; that the inhabitants were in great consternation in New York ; many were pack ing up their goods ; that Arnold's loss at New London, in both killed and wounded was very considerable; that the 38th, 47th and 50th regiments were on that expedition, and then considered as unfit for duty. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton was said to be embarked with the troops, report said from 7 to 8 thousand; among them the British and Hessian grenadiers, light infantry, 42d regiment, &c. 1 William Scott, 1st N. H. 287 24th. — A grand forage was made below the lines. The British fleet returned to the Hook on the 20th. The Pru- dente of 64 guns, had gone down in a miserable condition to join the fleet; and the Robuste of 74 guns had hauled down nearly opposite to the city. The heavy cannon had been taken from Fort Washington as well as the grand bat tery. 25th. — Forty-six loads of forage were brought off from below the lines. Mr. Rivington published another account of the naval engagement between the fleets on the 15th ; he acknowledged that several ships were much damaged, and that two which had come from the West Indies leaky, were more so after the engagement ; that in particular, the Ter rible was so much damaged as occasioned the taking out her guns, &c. and setting her on fire ; after which the fleet returned to the Hook, finding it impracticable to succour Lord Cornwallis. It was said that the troops which had embarked, (about 6000) had debarked on Staten Island. Other accounts stated their number not more than 4000 — they were impressing and collecting wagons. 27th. — Three deserters came in from Col. Wurmb's1 corps with their arms, &c. 28th. — Apprehending that the enemy might have inten tions of crossing over from Staten Island to the Jersies, a detachment of 300 infantry, with light artillery, under the command of Col. SAvif t2, were ordered to cross the ferry the next morning and move as far as Ramapo, to be on hand to aid the militia, in case the enemy should land in the Jer sies. 29th. — Intelligence was received from the northward that a small party had been sent from St. John's to Sara toga, to take a prisoner or tAvo, for the purpose of obtain ing information, but that five of the party, with the instruc tions of the British commandant at St. John's were taken and brought in by Captain Dunham3. 1 Wurmb's was a Hessian regiment. 2 Heman Swift, 2d Connecticut. 3 George Dunham, 2d Massachusetts. 288 30th. — Intelligence was received that Admiral Digby arrived at New York on the 25th inst. with three sail of the line and one frigate. Prince William Henry,1 the King of England's third son, came in this fleet. It was said in New York that Lord Cornwallis's force in Virginia consisted of 5000 regular troops, and 3000 levies; but that behind him was a numerous Continental army — before him a powerful French fleet. The troops on Staten Island were at this time suspected to be planning some secret expedi tion ; and Congress, from some intelligence which they had received, were not without apprehensions that Philadel phia might be their object. The militia of Pennsylvania were held in readiness for instant service, and our General was notified to hold the army in readiness to move, if neces sary. The enemy were carefully watched. Sir Henry Clin ton was endeavouring to devise some means whereby he might relieve Lord Cornwallis, but nothing would have di verted Gen. Washington from capturing him. The New York papers were filled with addresses and adulations to their young Prince ; but these could not retard the advances of a Washington or defend Cornwallis. The fleet of Count de Grasse made several captures. 3d. — At 3 o'clock A. M. Major Trescott,2 with a detach ment of 100 men from Maj. Tallmadge's command, crossed the Sound to Long Island and completely surprised the enemy's Fort Slonge3, making 2 Captains, 1 Lieutenant, and 18 rank and file prisoners ; of the enemy, 2 were killed and 2 wounded; of the Americans, none were killed, and but one wounded. Two double fortified 4 pounders, found in the fort, were damaged. One brass three-pounder, with a number of small arms, ammunition, clothing, British goods, &c. were brought off. This enterprise was conducted with address and gallantry. 1 Afterwards William IV. 3 Lemuel Trescott (1751-1826), 16th Massachusetts. 3 Slongo. 289 4th. — The foragers returned with upwards of 40 loads of bay. 5th. — A detachment of dragoons were sent towards Bos ton, and 100 picked infantry under Maj. Morrel1 were to march towards Springfield to escort a large sum of money (brought by Col. Laurens) to Philadelphia. 6th. — The enemy were again embarking their troops from Staten Island; they embarked on board the men-of- war. Considering their case as desperate, they were de termined to make one desperate attempt. Ten or twelve fire-ships were prepared to sail with the fleets; they were filled with proper materials for the purpose, and, to pre vent suspicion, they were new painted, had guns, and the appearance of some of the handsomest ships in the fleet. 8th. — A detachment was sent on a grand forage. The same day, intelligence was received that a party of refu gees and Indians from Niagara had burnt a number of nouses and barns at Warworsing2 ; they were pursued by Col. Paulding, but could not be come up with. Sir Henry Clinton, in his orders of the 3d, directed 3000 regular troops to embark on board the men-of-war as marines; it Avas supposed that everything would be ready by the 14th. Secret intelligence had been received from Albany, that the enemy had intentions on that city; that they would ad vance by different routes and on their near approach would be joined by some disaffected people in the country, and the destruction of the city be effected. Brig. Gen. Stark had been in command for some time at the northward. 10th. — Our General ordered the 2d NeAV Hampshire reg iment and a detachment of artillery to the northward. Gen. Stark had executed a Mr. Loveless,3 sent in by Capt. Dun ham as a spy. 13th. — Intelligence was received that the enemy had ad vanced to this side of Lake George. lAmos Morrill, 2d N. H. 2 Wawarsing, Ulster County. 3 Thomas Lovelace was hung near the present Schuylerville, N. Y. He was a noted Tory marauder. 290 14th. — The 1st New Hampshire and 10th Massachusetts regiments, with a detachment of artillery, were ordered to Albany, where matters wore a more serious aspect. 15th. — Intelligence was received that on the 28th ult. Gen. Washington took a position in the neighborhood of York — the enemy gave him no annoyance: on his advanc ing, a body of horse paraded before the enemy's works ; but retired upon the discharge of a few shots at them. The 29th was spent in taking another position as near the enemy's advanced works as could be done without plac ing the encampment in range of their shot. Some skirmish ing happened between our riflemen and the Jagers, in which the former had the advantage. At night the enemy abandoned all their out-posts, (some of which were very advantageous) and retired to the town; the Americans oc cupied the same ground, and made lodgments at a short distance from the enemy's lines. The heavy artillery was to be brought up as soon as possible, and the siege pushed with vigour. 30th. — Col. Scammell, who was officer of the day, was wounded and taken prisoner by a party of the enemy's horse, as he was reconnoitring one of the works which had just before been evacuated. Our General had ordered Maj. Gen. Lord Stirling to proceed to Albany, and take command of the troops in that quarter; he set out for the northward about noon on the 16th. The same day, Col. Tupper, with the 1st New Hampshire and 10th Massachusetts regiments, and a de tachment of artillery, embarked at Fishkill Landing, and arrived at Albany in 18 hours afterwards. The same day it was learnt that the enemy's fleet at New York was 24 or 25 sail of the line, and' that 5 or 6000 of the best troops at New York had embarked and were on the point of sail ing to attempt to relieve Earl Cornwallis; it was also said that Cornwallis was short of bread, and that his meat pro visions would not last him more than the month out, at 291 farthest — he had received fresh provisions but once after he was blockaded. On the morning of the 17th a horse-guard belonging to Gen. Howe's division, consisting of a Sergeant, 9 privates and 8 wagoners, with 30 horses, were taken by Delancey's horse a little below Croton River, where the horses had been put to pasture contrary to orders. A Court of In quiry Avas ordered to investigate the matter. 18th. — It was learnt that on the preceding Saturday, a British 74 gun ship was struck by the lightning at New York, and sustained considerable damage. 22d. — Gen. Greene's official letter to Congress, an nounced that his battle on the 8th, near Eutaw Springs, was well fought; that on the field he obtained the victory, drove and pursued the enemy for several miles, when the enemy, throwing themselves into a three-story brick house, a stockaded garden and thick brush, renewed the action, when, after some efforts to dislodge them, Gen. Greene thought it advisable to call off his troops, which was done, and the Avounded brought off, except such as were under the fire of the house. Four brass six-pounders having had their horses killed, were also left near the house, in pos session of the enemy. This was somewhat similar to what took place at Germantown battle, and now very probably saved the British from a total defeat. The close of this ac tion barred its being called a complete victory, although its effects proved it such. General Greene of Continental State troops and militia, had one Lieutenant-Colonel, 1 Major, 6 Captains, 8 Subalterns, 8 Sergeants, and 114 rank and file killed — 5 Lieutenant-Colonels, 13 Captains, 25 Subalterns, 32 Sergeants, and 300 rank and file woun ded — 1 Sergeant and 40 rank and file missing — 1 Brigadier- General of militia wounded. Of the enemy, 500 prisoners, including the wounded, which the enemy left behind them, were taken, and it was supposed that the killed and other wounded of the enemy must be nearly 600 more. Perhaps trocps never fought better than the Americans did in this 292 battle; and of the British, General Greene observed, "the enemy fought with equal spirit, and worthy of a better cause." By a letter from Gen. Washington of the 6th, it appeared that the operations against Earl Cornwallis had then gone on but slowly, but that the trenches were to be opened that night. The same letter observed that some misunderstand ing, which had subsisted in Vermont, was settled, and that Gen. Enos and the troops under his command were to be subject to the orders of our General. The army in the Highlands were at this time short of flour, occasioned by the dry season, and consequent want of water for the mills. 24th. — A letter was received from Gen. Washington, dated at York, in Virginia, the 12th, by which it appeared that the trenches Avere opened on the night of the 6th, with out being discovered by the enemy until day-light. The approaches were carried on within 600 yards of the enemy's works without any loss — the 7th and 8th were employed in erecting batteries — on the 9th, two batteries, one on the right, and the other on the left, were opened. The next morning, four other batteries being completed, the whole opened a heavy fire of cannon and mortars, which soon became so warm as to drive the enemy from their guns and their fire was almost totally silenced — very little return was made afterwards. The Charon of 44 guns, with one transport, took fire from our shot or shells, the evening of the 10th, and were both consumed. The 11th, another ship Avas destroyed in the same manner. The same night, the second parallel was advanced within less than 400 yards of the enemy's lines. This approach was also effected with out annoyance; and on the 12th, the fatigue men were se curely covered while they were completing the works. The same evening there was a flying report, which seemed to gain credit, that Earl Cornwallis and his army surrendered on the 17th, and that Count de Grasse had gone out to meet Admiral Digby. 293 25th. — Intelligence was received of the advance of the enemy at the northward. 26th. — Col. Francis, with the specie from Boston, passed the river ; the money was escorted by 40 horse of Sheldon's regiment, and 150 infantry, and Lieut. Col. Mellen1 was ordered with a detachment of infantry, to move on the lower road as far as Morristown, keeping between the es cort and the enemy. 28th. — In the afternoon, a letter from Gen. Washington to our General announced the pleasing and highly im portant news of the complete capture of Earl Cornwallis and his whole army on the 19th. Our General had assured the army that the moment he received the certain intelli gence of the capture of Cornwallis, it should be announced to them by the discharge of 13 cannon near his quarters; these were now the heralds to the army, and were instantly answered by a like number of field-pieces in every brigade on the ground. *On the 15th, two of the enemy's redoubts were stormed, one by the Americans and the other by the French troops, and soon carried with but little loss. The possession of these redoubts gave the allied army in a great measure the command of the other works of the enemy, who on the 17th beat a parley, and on the 19th, surrendered : 3500 regular troops laid down their arms; 2000 more were sick and wounded in the hospitals. These were exclusive of sailors, negroes, &c. Earl Cornwallis was to go to England on pa role, and remain a prisoner until exchanged. The officers and men were to be exchanged as far as the garrison of Charleston would extend; the remainder were to remain prisoners of war; the British were to retain their private baggage. It was said that more than 100 vessels were taken from the enemy. A detail of the prisoners taken, was stated as follows: one Lieut. General, one Brig. General, 2 Col onels, 14 Lieut. Colonels, 16 Majors, 97 Captains, 180 Lieutenants, 55 Ensigns, 4 Chaplains, 6 Adjutants, 18 Quarter-Masters, 18 Surgeons, 25 Mates, 385 Sergeants, 1 James Millen, 4th Massachusetts, 294 197 Drummers and Trumpeters, 6039 rank and file, 189 in Commissary's department — sailors in the pay of the King, 840 — killed during the siege, 309 — deserters, 44 — 75 brass cannon, 169 iron do., 5743 muskets with bayonets, 915 mus kets without bayonets, and 1136 damaged muskets were among the trophies of victory. Thus was the principal force of the enemy crushed in the south. At the northward the enemy were advancing, both by the way of the Lakes and by the Mohawk River. Col. Willet1, with his regiment of New York levies, and some militia of New York, and from the western parts of Massachusetts, were advancing to meet Maj. Ross, who, with from 500 to 700 men, prin cipally British troops, was making his way towards Al bany through the settlements on the Mohawk. 29th. — Intelligence was received that an action took place the preceding Thursday, near Johnstown, between the troops under the command of Col. Willett and Maj. Ross. * Col. Willett having advanced until he had arrived near Maj. Ross detached Maj. Rowley of Massachusetts with a body of militia, by a circuitous movement, to get in the rear of the enemy, with orders that as soon as he heard the firing in the front, to fall on them. Maj. Rowley performed his manoeuvre acordingly, and as soon as Col. Willett judged that the Major had gained the rear of the enemy, he made a vigorous charge on their front when they immediately gave way, and to all appearance the Colonel was nearly in the grasp of victory, when, all at once, without any visible oc casion, the levies came to a stand and then immediately be gan to fall back, the enemy facing about and charging vig orously; the Colonel's brass field-piece and ammunition tumbrel fell into the hands of the enemy, and a rout seemed to be taking place, when Maj. Rowley, not knowing what had taken place in the front, commenced a brisk attack on the enemy's rear; this instantly threw them into confusion, the levies rallied in the front and fought with redoubled JMarinus Willett. 295 bravery ; the field-piece and tumbrel were retaken, and the enemy put to a most complete rout and pursued until the levies, militia, and some Oneida Indians who were with Col. Willett were worn down with fatigue. It was not possible to ascertain the number of the enemy's slain ; for, to use the words of the reporting officer, "Unless the swamps and rivers in which they fell Avere to report the killed, it was impossible to make a return of them." Major Butler1, so frequently a troublesome partisan officer on the frontiers, was killed by the Indians as he was passing a river. Fifty- two prisoners were taken and brought in ; and Major Ross went off in a direction into the woods where he and his troops must have suffered extremely for pro visions, &c. Of the levies and militia with Col. Willett, i. Lieutenant and 12 rank and file were killed; 1 Captain, 2 Lieutenants, and 20 rank and file were wounded; 1 Cap tain, 1 Lieutenant and 3 privates missing. Thus were the designs of the enemy also frustrated in the north. The Corporation of the city of Albany were so much im pressed with the seasonable and effectual exertions made by our General to save their city from destruction, that they sent him the following very polite address : Albany, October 22, 1781. " Sir, Threatened as this city and the frontiers of the State have been with destruction from an enemy who, forgetting the rights of humanity and customs of war adopted by civ ilized nations, have hitherto waged it with all the spirit of the most savage barbarism, we cannot reflect but with pleasure and gratitude on the alacrity with which you have pursued the intentions of the Commander in Chief, in affording with so much dispatch a competent support to oppose the enemy ; permit us, therefore, to render to you our unfeigned thanks, and to assure you that the corpora- 1 This was the execrated Walter N. Butler, whose body was denied burial. 296 tion of the city of Albany can never be unmindful of your attention; and Ave entertain not the least doubt but that similar sentiments influence every inhabitant who has ex perienced the advantage of your generous exertions. We are, Sir, with the greatest respect and esteem, your most obedient, humble Servants, By order of the Corporation, (Signed) Abra. Ten Broeck, Mayor. The Hon. Maj. Gen. Heath." 31st. — The army in the Highlands celebrated the glori ous victory obtained over Lord Cornwallis. The whole army was under arms in one line; the artillery inter spersed with the brigades to which it was attached; at 12 o'clock, the army was reviewed by the General; at one, a grand feu-de-joy was fired, after which, all the officers dined together at a table spread in the field, and formed a great square, where great festivity and social mirth pre vailed. The soldiery had an extra boon on the occasion, and, to crown the whole, in the midst of the joy around the table, an officer approached our General, and informed him that, at the request of the prisoners in the provost (who were pretty numerous) he was desired to represent that their hearts expanded with joy on account of the glorious victory obtained by their illustrious Commander in Chief — that they lamented they could not express it with their comrades in arms, but that they did it heartily in their confinement, and solicited the General's goodness in an order for something to cheer their spirits. This was in stantly done, with an additional order to the officer of the provost guard to set every prisoner in confinement at lib erty. The promulgation of this order drew a shout of ap probation from the whole body of the officers at the table, and probably had a better effect on the discipline of the army than a continuation of confinement and exemplary punishment of the culprits could have produced. The gen eral order of the day directed that, "As soon as the feu-de- 297 joy is over, the arms, ammunition, &c. are immediately to be put in perfect order for instant action. All guards, pickets and centinels to be vigilant and alert on their posts;" which, notwithstanding the joy of the day, was strictly observed. On this occasion there were rejoicings in all parts of the United States. One instance seems to be worthy of notice : the company collected had determined to burn Gen. Ar nold in effigy for his treachery at West Point ; just as they were going to commit the effigy to the flames, one of the company observed that one of Arnold's legs was wounded when he was fighting bravely for America, that this leg ought not to be burnt, but amputated ; in which the whole company agreed, and this leg was taken off and safely laid by. November 3d. — At night the escort with the southern mail, who had put up at Col. Cooper's in Clark's Town, Avere attacked by a gang of villains who fired into the house and killed the Sergeant dead on the spot and wounded Capt. Champion1 of Connecticut, who had put up at the same house, in the shoulder; the Corporal of the escort behaved well, threw the mail behind a bed, and defended the house — the assailants made off. The same day the foragers returned from below the lines with a large quantity of forage, and two prisoners, taken near Col. Phillips's. 5th. — A Hessian Jager came in with his horse and equipments complete. 7th. — Two deserters came in from New York; they left the city the evening before — they were very intelligent ; by them it was learnt that the British fleet returned to Sandy Hook the preceding Saturday was a week — that no ac tion happened while they were at sea — that the troops Avere disembarked from the men-of-war, but remained on 1 Although the State records make no mention of his wound, this officer was probably Henry Champion, Jr., of Colchester. 298 board the transports — that Gen. Sir Henry Clinton landed on Long Island and came across to the city. 8th.--Intelligence was received from the northward that the enemy did not establish a post at Ticonderoga, but were returning towards Canada ; and the militia which had been called out were dismissed. The British at New York at this time, wished to strike some Of the posts in the High lands, but did not attempt any of them. The army was short of flour, but amply supplied with meat. About this time our General received a letter from Gen. Washington, dated at York, (Virginia) October 27th, 1781, in which, among other things, the Commander in Chief observes: "There will be no occasion for forwarding on any more beef cattle from the northward for this army. Should there be a greater quantity of cattle sent from the New England States than the daily Consumption of your army shall require, I would wish the surplus might be salted (if practicable) at some convenient place on the North River; otherwise, it might be necessary for you to give orders to the Agents and Com missaries to prevent their sending more cattle than you shall have occasion for." This was the good fruit of the systematic arrangement. 12th. — Gen. Glover, with his own brigade, marched for the lines in order to cover a grand forage. 13th. — Lieut. Deforested of the Connecticut line, with 25 Continental soldiers, and Capt. Lockwood,2 with 15 vol unteers, including Lieutenants Hull3 and Mead,4, of the Connecticut State troops, took an armed slope of 10 car riage-guns with 25 soldiers on board. Lieut. De Forest and those with him, behaved with great address and gal lantry. 16th.— Brig. Gen. Glover returned from the grand for age; during the forage one of the enemy was killed and 1 Samuel De Forest, 5th Conn. 2 Lockwood is apparently the same as on page 288. 3 Probably Abner Hull of the 7th Conn. 4 Probably Jasper Mead, Lieut. 5th Conn 299 two taken prisoners; a quantity of corn, hay, &c. and about 40 swine, were brought off. 17th. — The 3d Massachusetts brigade moved to their ground of cantonment, south of the north redoubt, where they built their huts. 19th. — Admiral Digby remained at New York with seven sail of the line, five of 74 and two of 64 guns, two fifties, two frigates, one 20 gun ship, and two sloops of war; the remainder of the British fleet under the command of Ad miral Graves, sailed from Sandy Hook the preceding Mon day for the West Indies; a great number of shipping, per haps 300 sail, were lying in New York harbour ; the enemy and inhabitants appeared much dejected. 20th. — Col. Tupper, with the 10th Massachusetts regi ment, a detachment of artillery,- &c. arrived at West Point from Albany. 23d. — The Connecticut line marched to their canton ment back of Constitution Island, and the corps of artil lery to West Point. The same day, Maj. Gen. Lord Stir ling returned to the army from Albany. 24th. — Our General removed his quarters from the Con tinental Village to Robinson's Farm, for winter quarters. The army in want of flour and forage. 28th. — The 1st Massachusetts brigade moved to their cantonment back of West Point. December 2d. — The militia which had been called out for three months, were returning home. They had served with much reputation, and done good service for their country. 4th. — Capt. Sacket1 of the New York levies, near Har rison's Purchase, below the lines, having gone a small dis tance from his detachment on the morning of the 2d, was taken prisoner by a party of the enemy. The enemy after wards attacked Lieut. Mosher2, to whom the command of the detachment fell; Lieut. Mosher and the detachment be- 1 Samuel Sacket, 4th N. Y. (Died April 15, 1780.) 2 John Mosher. 8th Massachusetts. 300 haved with great bravery, repulsed the enemy, killed one of them and tAvo horses and wounded eight of the enemy; among them a Capt. Kipp, said mortally; Colonel Holmes and Capt. Kipp had their horses killed under them. The levies had not a man killed or wounded. The army were now busily employed in building their huts, which they prosecuted with great expedition, and soon rendered them comfortable as to shelter; but many of the troops were in a most naked and distressed condition as to clothing ; but relief was daily arriving from the east ward. 8th. — The officers and soldiers who had been in Virginia were now returning to the army. Some of the soldiers. brought the small-pox with them. 12th. — The river was frozen down to Fishkill Landing. The 13th was a general Thanksgiving Day ; a large com pany of the officers of the army dined with our General. 24th. — The Clothier-General was issuing the new cloth ing to the regimental Pay-Masters — a most necessary piece of business. Congress about this time, by resolutions which they passed, called upon the Legislatures of the respective States to complete their quotas of the army by the first of March ensuing, Congress being determined to push the late sucesses until the enemy were driven from America. The preceding day, viz. the 23d, Capt. Williams1 of the New York levies, (stationed on the lines) with 25 volunteer horse, made an excursion to Morrisania, where they took and brought off prisoners, one Captain, one Lieutenant, and seven privates of Delancey's corps, with out the loss of a man. Capt. Williams conducted this enter prise with address and gallantry. Capt. Pritchard moved down with a detachment of Continental troops to cover the horse, if necessary, but the enemy did not come out. 26th. — Five deserters came in from Arnold's corps, with their horses, &c. complete; they were a patrol to a forag ing party near Col. Phillips's. An embarkation of troops 1 Daniel Williams. 301 was taking place at New York for Charleston and Savan nah ; Gen. Leslie having written, that without a reinforce ment he could not maintain his posts. 27th. — Free Masons celebrated the feast of St. John, &c. 31st. — The river Avas a little freed of the ice. — Thus closed the year 1781, a year which will be memorable in the annals of the United States of America for the capture of Earl CornAvallis and his army — for several well-fought battles in the south by General Greene and the British, in that quarter — for theCount de Grasse's having visited our coast with the most formidable fleet ever before in these seas — and for general successes on the American arms, under the smiles of Divine Providence in every quarter. May the new year be rendered more auspicious in the com pletion of the American warfare, and in the establishment of the United States in the full acknowledgment of inde pendence, peace and happiness. 1782. January 1st.— A new mode of supplying the army by contract commenced under the conduct of Com fort Sands & Co., contractors. 7th. — Nine soldiers had then died of the small-pox; it was spreading, and it was determined to inoculate such as had not had the distemper, which took place in the Connecticut line on the 11th. 11th. — Capt. HunneAveli1 of New York, with a number of volunteer horse, covered by Maj. Trescott with a detach ment of Continental troops, made an excursion to Mor risania, took and brought off prisoners Capt. Totten and three privates of Delancey's corps ; it was the intent to have captured the Colonel, but he was absent from his quarters. A party of the enemy's horse collected and pursued Capt. Hunnewell but they were checked by Major Trescott, and no injury was sustained. 14th. — It was learnt that on the 4th, a fleet of 25 sail of victuallers arrived at New York from Cork under convoy 1 Capt. Israel Honeywell, Jr., 1st Westchester militia. 302 of the Quebec frigate; ten sail more were left at Charles ton, where the whole touched. 16th. — The river Avas hard frozen again, and was passa ble on the ice from West Point to Constitution Island. The same day a sergeant and four dragoons came in from Ar nold's corps, with six horses and furniture complete. The sixth dragoon would not come off, on which the others took from him his horse, cloak, sword, &c. They deserted from a foraging party and reported that a great part of the corps would desert when the opportunity offered. 17th. — Three dragoons came in from Arnold's corps with their horses, &c. complete, and one prisoner taken by our guides near Morrisania, was sent up. 18th. — Lieut. Hiwill1, crossing the river on the ice, fell through, but fortunately got out again. 19th. — It was communicated that about the month of the preceding October, one was offered two thousand guineas to take Gen. Washington, and five hundred to take and bring in Gov. Reed. 20th. — News was received that the Marquis de Bouille2, Governor of Martinico3, had recaptured the Island of St. Eustatia, where he made prisoners of 670 men. The Count de Grasse, with 31 sail of the line, had arrived at Martin ico before the 6th of December. The British fleet from New York had arrived at Barbadoes. 24th. — Some uneasiness having taken place on account of the issues of provisions under the contract, the officers commanding brigades were ordered, on the part of the army, to endeavour an adjustment with the contractors, who went for that purpose. 28th. — A man and his horse fell through the ice near West Point; several soldiers lent their assistance, but in vain — both Avere drowned. 31st. — The Avhole of the troops who had not before had Uohn Hiwell, 3rd Continental artillery. He died in Savannah, 1788.2 Bouille. 3 Martinique. 303 the small-pox, were then under the operation of inoculation — their number near 2000 ; several had died, but in general it was very favourable. February 8th. — News was received that the Duke de Lauzun, Avho carried to France the news of the capture of Earl Cornwallis, arrived in France in 23 days after he left the Chesapeake; that there were great rejoicings in France on the occasion, and also for the birth of a Dauphin. 10th. — The river had been passable on the ice for several days at King's Ferry. On the preceding Thursday, about 50 of Delancey's horse came out within four miles of Chap- paqua, where they halted. On the 8th, they moved towards North Castle, but turned off by Wright's Mills ; from thence to King Street, and towards Horseneck ; they fell in with a small guard of Gen. Waterbury's — killed one and made four prisoners; they also took two or three inhabitants, plundered two houses, and returned. About this time, a detachment from the Jersey line made an attempt on the refugee post at Bergen, but were repulsed. 17th. — The King of England's speech to his Parliament came to hand; this speech was more moderate than any before had been, and an inclination to pacification was dis cernible. 20th. — Two deserters came in from Arnold's corps and also two Hessians; ten had come in during the course of two or three days. 21st. — The enemy were out towards Bedford. About this time, nine or ten thousand stand of arms and a large quantity of powder brought from France by Col. Laurens, Avere brought from Boston to Fishkill. 23d. — A detachment, consisting of 150 men, properly of ficered, under the command of Maj. Maxwell, marched for Stamford to cover that part of the country. 27th. — Col. Sumner arrived from Massachusetts; he brought on about 2000 suits of clothes for the army. The day before, a Mr. Dyckman1, one of our guides on the lines, 1 Abraham Dyckman (see next page). 304 with 13 volunteer horsemen, made an excursion to Morri sania, took five prisoners of Delancey's corps and five horses ; on their return they were pursued by a party of the enemy's horse, who coming rather too near, the brave volunteers faced about, charged vigorously, and took one man prisoner with his horse, and put the rest to flight. The enemy again appeared in some force at a distance, but dared not to renew the attack. About this time, a fleet of transports sailed from New York to the southward; it was conjectured to bring away troops. March 3d. — The river was so freed of ice that the Gen eral's barge crossed to West Point. Two prisoners of war taken from Delancey's corps were sent up. Accounts from Massachusetts announced an uneasiness among the people respecting the burden of taxes, and that there had been Conventions in the counties of Hampshire and Berkshire. 4th. — Capt. Hunnewell, with a body of volunteer horse, backed by the infantry under the command of Maj. Wood- bridge, made an excursion to Morrisania. The horse pro ceeded down betAveen the British fort No. 8 and the can tonment of Delancey's corps, and having turned the canton ments between day-break and sun-rise, they entered pell- mell. The enemy were completely surprised and fled in every direction; some were cut down on the spot, others so badly Avounded as not to be able to be removed. Some of the enemy availed themselves of positions where the horse could not assail them, from whence they began to flre on the horse; this ocasioned the firing of the alarm guns at No. 8. The horse having nearly accomplished their de sign, moved off, taking the East Chester road, on which Maj. Woodbridge had posted the infantry in ambuscade. Capt. Hunnewell had brought off one Subaltern and 20 men prisoners, and 20 horses. The enemy in the vicinity col lected a number of horse, backed by light infantry, and pursued Capt. Hunnewell until he came to Maj. Wood- bridge. The enemy were drawn into the ambuscade, who made one or two discharges on them, on which they broke 305 and retired, but soon returned to the charge; skirmishing ensued, and continued to a considerable distance. Of the Americans, two privates were killed — Mr. Dyckman, one of the guides, a brave and active man, mortally wounded, and three privates slightly wounded. The enemy at New York were now contemplating means for their own defence against the next campaign, and it was determined to open a canal and strong lines from the Hud son to the East River, at some distance from the city. The canal was to be deep and wide; 2000 men were employed on the works on one day, 300 of whom were inhabitants. The same number were to be furnished daily. These prep arations were a defensive shield for the time of approach ing negotiation, for, from the debates and speeches in the British Parliament, the olive-branch was evidently putting forth its buds. 10th. — Two soldiers belonging to the 6th Massachusetts regiment, having some words respecting their mess, one of them struck the other with his fist a blow on the head and killed him dead on the spot. About the same time, an inhabitant, apprehending that some soldiers were about to rob his henroost, discharged a musket out of a window, by which a soldier was killed. 13th.: — Maj. Gen. Lincoln, Secretary at War, arrived at the army on his way to Philadelphia. At this time it was learnt that on the 13th of the preced ing December there were strong debates in the British House of Commons respecting the carrying on of the war in America. When Sir James Lowther made a motion that the mode which had been pursued was ineffectual, many Members spoke for and against the motion; when it was put, there was against the motion, 220; for it, 179; ma jority, 41. 14th. — Lieut. Harris, with six men belonging to Capt. Vermille's1 company of militia, having obtained intelli gence of a party of Delancey's corps being at a house near 1 Benjamin Vermilyea was a captain in the 1st Westchester militia 306 Mile-Square, had the address to surprise the whole party, consisting of 12, killed one and made four prisoners. 21st. — A duel1 was fought at West Point between Capt. and Lieut. , when the former was killed and the latter wounded : they fought with pistols, at about ten feet distance. The Lieutenant absconded. 25th. — News was received that the islands of St. Chris topher's and Nevis surrendered to the arms of his most Christian Majesty on the 12th of the preceding February. The terms granted by the French commandants were truly noble, and reflect the highest honour on them. 26th. — About this time, putrid fevers were prevalent among the American troops, and in some instances proved mortal. About this time an embarkation of about 800 troops took place at New York ; their destination not pub- lickly known. 28th. — The whole army were ordered to be in readiness for instant action, or to march to such place or places as might stand in need of aid. An additional company was ordered to the lines, and another to Smith's Clove, for the safety of the Commander in Chief, who was on his way from Philadelphia to Newburgh, and was to pass the Clove on the succeeding Saturday or Sunday. News was re ceived that the citizens of London and Westminister had petitioned the King, in the strongest terms, to relinquish the American war. 29th. — Five deserters came in from Arnold's corps with their arms, &c. complete. The enemy were busily employed on their canal and lines : a number of heavy cannon had been put on board ship at New York. About this time the British cruisers were but too successful against the Ameri cans at sea. A ship of 18 guns had, for some time, taken a station off Spuyten Duyvil Creek. 31st. — His excellency Gen. Washington arrived at New burgh; he had been absent from the main army since the IThe principals were Captain Luke Hitchcock of the 1st Massachu setts and Lieutenant Nathan Stone of Jackson's regiment (Mass.). 307 19th of the preceding August, having spent the winter at Philadelphia after the capture of Earl Cornwallis. April 2d. — Our General went up to Newburgh to pay his respects to the Commander in Chief, where he dined, and returned at evening; Gen. Washington established his quarters at Newburgh. On the night of the 1st, a party of Capt. Pray's men, from the water-guard, being on shore, on the east side of the Hudson, fell in with a party of our own militia, who, in the dark, attacked each other ; four of the latter were wounded, and eleven (being the whole of the party) were taken prisoners before the mistake was dis covered. An express, on his way from St. John's to New York, with several letters, one in characters/ had been taken. 4th. — The following extract was published in the general orders : Head-Quarters, Newburgh, April 4th, 1782. "The Commander in Chief having returned and resumed the command of the main army, presents his thanks to Maj. Gen.Heath and the troops which have been employed under his orders, for having preserved the important posts com mitted to his charge and covered the country so successfully against the depredations of the enemy during the absence of the General." 6th. — The Commander in Chief visited West Point, and reviewed the first Massachusetts brigade. On his arrival at the Point, he was saluted by the discharge of 13 cannon. 8th. — Four deserters came in, three from the 42d Brit ish regiment, and a seaman from the ship Venger; this ship stationed in the North River, mounted 24 guns, and had two gun-boats with her. The enemy continued at work on their canal and lines, which they were making very strong. An incredible number of fascines had been made during winter on Long Island and Staten Island, strongly bound 1 Cipher is doubtless meant. 308 with eight band's; these were placed in the face of the work with five pickets in each fascine. 9th. — The Commander in Chief reviewed the 3d Massa chusetts brigade and 10th regiment, and dined with our General. The same day, two deserters came in from the ship in the river. The same night, an armed brig, and three boats, full of men, came up the Hudson, and came to anchor a little above the place where our guard-boats rendezvous at Nyack; they were early discovered and the alarm given. The soldiers landed at Haverstraw about one o'clock on the morning of the 10th and took three or four militiamen. It was supposed that their design was to have taken our whale- boats; they were refugees and sailors. Not knowing but that this might have been a feint to an attack on the lines, 200 men were detached for their support, if necessary. The enemy returned down the river in the afternoon, hav ing, in addition to the militia above mentioned, taken two of Capt. Pray's men who were out burning coal, and two others who were over at Tarrytown fishing, and destroyed some seines. It was learnt from the northward that the enemy were repairing and building boats at St. John's, and bringing up provisions to that place; this rendered it probable that the enemy would be troublesome in that quarter the ensuing campaign. Several parties of Indians had been skulking about on the Mohawk River, had killed a soldier and a lad, and taken a soldier prisoner, and burnt a building. 14th. — Three deserters came in from Robinson's corps; they made their escape from Long Island by crossing the Sound in a canoe. They reported that the enemy were un der great apprehensions of an attack, and were making every preparation for defence; that 62,000 fascines had been made on Long Island during the winter and spring. A. fleet of transports had arrived at New York from Charleston. Lines were traced out on Long Island from the great fort to the marsh, near M'Gowan's mill dam. 18th. — It Avas learnt that the enemy had laid an embargo 309 on the shipping at New York. News was received that Holland had formed an alliance with France, and that a Spanish fleet had arrived in the West Indies. 19th. — The General Officers, and officers commanding brigades and regiments, met at our General's quarters, in consequence of orders from the Commander in Chief, to give an opinion what measures ought to be adopted in con sequence of the horrid and brutal murder of a Capt. Huddy, who had commanded a block-house at Tom's River, in the Jersies, and had been taken prisoner by the enemy and carried to New York, where he was closely confined, under guard, and in the sugar-house, and on board a vessel, in irons and then carried over to Bergen, in the Jersies, and hanged by the refugees, a Capt. Lippincott directing the execution. This was done under the pretence that Capt. Huddy had been concerned in the death of one Philip White, although White was killed by the guard, from whom he endeavoured to make his escape, and Capt. Huddy was at the same time a prisoner with the enemy. Huddy was left hanging on a tree with the following label fastened on his breast : "Up goes Huddy for Philip White." This wan ton and cruel act so exasperated the inhabitants of New Jersey, that they drew up a petition, signed by a vast num ber of respectable citizens, claiming of Gen. Washington, as the Military Guardian of their country, the obtainment of justice for this horrid act, or retaliation in case justice was refused. Indeed, painful as the idea of retaliation must be to the feelings of humanity, it seemed now to be the only preventative of more horrid murders. Gen. Wash ington with his wonted prudence and talent for investiga tion, free of all bias, ordered the officers to assemble as be fore mentioned, and directed our General to state to them the occasion of their being convened, and then the follow ing questions : "Shall there be retaliation for the murder of Capt, Huddy? On whom shall it be inflicted? And how shall the victim be designated?" The officers assembled were forbidden to converse on the questions submitted to 310 them, each one was to write his own opinion, seal it up, and address it to the Commander in Chief. By this mode of procedure, all the influence which some officers might have on others was prevented, and the spontaneous feelings of every individual officer collected. Col. Humphries1 and Col. Trumbull of the General's family, attended the Coun cil, and every direction of the Commander in Chief was most strictly observed. It was found that the officers were unanimous in their opinion that retaliation ought to take place; that it should be inflicted on an officer of equal rank, viz. a Captain ; not under Convention or capitulation, but one who had surrendered at discretion ; and that in desig nating such a one, it should be done by lot. The Com mander in Chief was pleased to approve of the opinion of the officers, and wrote to the British commander demand ing justice for the wanton murder of Capt. Huddy, inform ing the British General at the same time that if justice was not obtained retaliation would most assuredly take place. At the same time arrangements were put in train for retalia tion ; the names of several British officers of equal rank and circumstances were thrown together, and a fair and impar tial lot was drawn, when young Capt. Asgill was taken; he was of a noble family, his father was dead, and on him were the fond hopes of his mother, Lady Asgill, placed. In deed, a more affecting scene than this can scarcely open ; an innocent young man doomed to suffer for the wanton offence of another, which deed, no doubt, his soul despised ; and the tender breast of a mother rent in twain on the fate of her darling son. Nor were the feelings of the great Wash ington unmoved on this occasion; they were too manifest not to be observed, and could only be curbed by the invaria ble resolution in every exigence, to exhibit the administra tor of justice. It was months before this tragic business closed, and that the reader may have the whole narrative together, it will be carried forward to such periods as will 1 David Humphreys. 311 render a return back to the proper chain of events neces sary. Gen. Sir Guy Carleton, who had come into the command in chief at New York, wrote to Gen. Washington, assuring him of the fullest satisfaction. Sir Guy ordered a Court-Martial for the trial of Capt. Lippincott, who Avas charged with the murder of Capt. Huddy. The Court-Martial had set and given in their pro ceedings to Gen. Carleton, who wrote a letter to Gen. Washington requesting a passport for Chief Justice Smith to repair to the head-quarters of the American army, in or der to lay before the Commander in Chief the proceedings of the Court-Martial, with other documents which he ( Sir Guy) had no doubt would give full satisfaction. Upon Gen. Washington's receiving the letter from Sir Guy Carleton, he informed our General that he should not consent to, or give a passport to Mr. Chief Justice Smith, to come up with the proceedings of the Court-Martial on Lippincott; but that he would send him (Gen. Heath) down to Col. Phillips's, near King's Bridge, to meet such officer of equal rank as Sir Guy Carleton might think proper to send out to meet him, with the proceedings of the Court-Martial, &c. ; and on the 30th of July the Commander in Chief wrote to our General as follows : Head-Quarters, 30th July, 1782. " Dear Sir, For your information and that you may know the ob ject of your mission, I enclose to you a transcript of my letter to Sir Guy Carleton, which is herewith committed to your care to be forwarded as soon as possible. Before the time of your going to Phillips's house, I shall have the pleasure of seeing you, or conveying to you in writing my sentiments more fully on the subject of your meeting. With great regard, &c. (Signed) G. Washington. Maj. Gen. Heath." 312 Copy. Head-Quarters, July 31st, 1782. "Sir,In reply to your letter of the 25th, I have to inform your Excellency that Maj. Gen. Heath, second in command, with two Aids-de-Camp, will have the honour of meeting an officer of equal rank of your Excellency's appointment, at the house of Mr. Phillips, on the 5th day of August next. At that time Gen. Heath will receive from your officer the proceedings of the Court-Martial on Capt. Lippincott, for the murder of Capt. Huddy, together with such other doc uments as you shall think proper to communicate. The assurance which your Excellency has given me of the fullest satisfaction in this matter, is as pleasing as it is interesting. Your Excellency's propositions, contained in your letter of the 7th, have been communicated to Congress, and are now under the consideration of that honourable body; as soon as I am favoured with their determination, your Ex cellency may be assured I will do myself the honour to communicate it. I have the honour, &c. (Signed) G. Washington. Sir Guy Carleton." By his Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States of America: " To Maj. Gen. Heath. Sir, His Excellency Sir Guy Carleton, having requested a pass-port for Chief Justice Smith, to repair to the head quarters of the American army, in order to lay before me the proceedings of a Court-Martial, on the trial of Capt. Lippincott for the murder of Capt. Huddy, with other doc uments and explanations, which he says, "he has no doubt Avill give full satisfaction : 313 I do, therefore, from an earnest desire to proceed with candour and deliberate justice, appoint you to meet an officer of equal rank, at the house of Col. Phillips, on Mon day the 5th instant, or at any other time or place which you may think more convenient, for the purpose of receiv ing the proceedings and documents above mentioned, with such explanations in writing as he may think proper to communicate. The papers you shall receive, you will trans mit to me as soon as your business is concluded, together with a report of your proceedings therein. Given at head-quarters, this 3d day of August, 1782. (Signed) G. Washington. By his Excellency's command." The following instructions accompanied the foregoing commission ; "To Maj. Gen. Heath, Sir, Having desired you to meet an officer from Sir Guy Carleton for the purpose mentioned in your appointment and authority, you will proceed to execute said business, in the course of which you may inform the officer you meet that, as I have no connexion with, or control over any per son in the line in which Mr. Smith walks ; as the question before us is in my opinion purely of a military nature, and reduceable to this single point, whether the perpetrator of the wanton and cruel murder of Huddy is to be given up, or a British officer to suffer in his place, that I could see no propriety or necessity in an interview with the Chief Justice. If you should find that the design of Sir Guy Carleton is to procrastinate this business, to en velope it in as much intricity and difficulty as. possible, or that he means to justify it by recrim ination and law cases, thereby attempting to avert our purposes of retaliation, you may assure him, (unless you shall judge it expedient to leave me more at liberty) if not 314 explicitly, at least by strong insinuation, that he will miss his aim ; and that my deliberate and dispassionate proceed ings in this case are intended to give him, as he now has had, full time to determine whether the guilty person or an innocent officer shall be made the subject of retaliation. You will be particularly cautious, that whatever passes in the conference you are to have, which is to be considered as official, be committed to writing, that no omissions or misconceptions may be plead hereafter; and you will in form the officer in explicit terms, if you find the matter is not likely to end as justice dictates and we could wish, that all oral conversation will be excluded from the official re port of these proceedings now, or any share in the account of them hereafter, or the recital of them will be considered as unfair, and an evident departure from that line of rec titude which we wished to pursue, for an unbiassed world to judge by. If, notwithstanding my letter to Sir Guy Carleton, re questing his appointment of an officer of your rank to meet you on this business, he should send Mr. Chief Justice Smith, you may, at your discretion, either receive the proceedings of the Court, and such other documents as he is merely the bearer of, without going into any explana tion with this gentleman, or refuse the whole, as the cir cumstances of the moment shall dictate to you. Or if this gentleman should be an attendant on the officer aforemen tioned, you may refuse to admit him at your conference. In the first case you may either return with the proceed ings, &c. or you may write to Sir Guy Carleton that you will wait a given time for an officer, agreeable to the pur port of my letter to him of the 30th of last month. Given at head-quarters, Newburgh, August 3d, 1782. (Signed) G. Washington." In the afternoon of the same day, our General received the following letter from the Commander in Chief : 315 Head-Quarters, August 3d, 1782. "Dear Sir, By the contents of Sir Guy Carleton's letter, which came inclosed in yours of this day, I find it is unnecessary for you to proceed to Phillips's house. Disappointed in not obtaining a passport for Mr. Chief Justice Smith to come out, he will not, he says, trouble an officer of your rank to be the bearer of a bundle of papers only ; but adds, they shall be sent out in the ordinary course of conveyance. Your letter to Col. Trumbull, covering the new adopted system of issues, &c. is received. (Signed) G. Washington. Maj. Gen. Heath." Not long after, the proceedings of the Court-Martial on Capt. Lippincott for the murder of Capt. Huddy were sent out; Lippincott was acquitted by the Court, and it appeared that the British Commanders in Chief, both Sir Henry Clinton and Sir Guy Carleton, disapproved the act. It seemed that a kind of Board of Directors who had a subordinate direction of the refugee operations, were somehow concerned in this business, and that argument and some artifice were necessary to smooth it over. How ever, Gen. Washington, painful as his task was, was not to be diverted from justice or retaliation ; but execution was suspended. Lady Asgill, learning the unhappy situation of her darling son, with much policy, and equal success, applied to the Count de Vergennes, then Prime Minister of France, who spread the matter before the King and Queen : indeed, it was a subject that needed no extra colour ing to fix it on the mind of humanity. The King and Queen listened to the request, and Congress was addressed in a representation, that the French, as well as American arms, were victorious at York, and that the former seemed to have some share in the prisoners ; and hinted that it would be pleasing to the French Court if young Asgill was par doned — which Congress complied with ; and although rep- 316 aration for the wanton murder of Capt. Huddy was not fully obtained, yet it is highly probable, that the firm and determined conduct of Gen. Washington on the occasion put a final stop to any further repetition of the kind. Sir Guy Carleton was probably the greatest General which the British had in America during the war, and it was fortunate for the Americans that he was so long kept within the limits of Canada. In him were combined many of those great qualifications which form the General. When Sir Guy visited the American prisoners in con finement in Canada, he addressed them with all the tender ness of a father; he observed to the young prisoners that he did not blame them, it was the fault of the designing men of their country that had led them into difficulty; that he would not hold them in confinement, but would send them home to their fathers and friends. See here the soothing art that could not fail to cool the ardour of the young warrior in the cause of his country. To Gen. Waterbury of Connecticut, when he shewed him his commission, Sir Guy observed, "Your commission is from the proper authority of your Colony (Connecticut had not changed her form of government) ; you are no rebel, Sir; you shall go home to your family." Soon after Sir Guy Carleton came into the command at New York, a Connecticut soldier, who had been a prisoner, came out to our army, and requested a pass to go home, informing that he had given a parole to Sir Guy not to serve again during the war ; but he was ordered to join his regiment, which disappointed the soldier exceedingly. Gen. Washington ordered the Commissary of Prisoners to credit the British for one man exchanged; and informed Sir Guy that this practice would not be allowed. Many soldiers were at that time very uneasy in the American army — had a conduct of this sort been allowed, many sol diers on the out-posts and otherwise, might have gone to the enemy, have pretended they were taken, and have come out under parole and have gone home, to the unspeakable 317 injury of the army, but it was nipped in the bud — only one other having come out in the same way before it was put a stop to. We now return to take up the chain of events from which we digressed. The 20th of April, two prisoners of war, taken near King Street, were sent up by Major Oliver.1 21st. — A Sergeant-Major deserted and came out; he re ported that an enterprise was contemplating at New York andj a number of large boats were collecting at Turtle Bay. 24th. — Two deserters came in from the Adamant man- of-war, of 50 guns, which lay in the East River, agamst New York. Admiral Digby's flag was then hoisted on board the Centurion. The seamen on board the ships very sickly. The latter end of April, the Duke of Cumberland packet, Capt. Dashwood, arrived at New York, in six weeks from England with the March mail, by which it was learnt that the debates in the British Parliament on the American war, grew more and more interesting; that a motion had been made by Gen. Conway, for bringing in a bill, empower ing the King to make peace with America. The beginning of May, the British cruisers were very successful against the Americans; eleven sail of vessels from Philadelphia were taken and carried into New York with near 9000 barrels of flour. May 4th. — This evening exhibited the most extraordi nary aurora borealis ever before seen by those who ob served it. 5th. — It was learnt that the merchants of Edinburgh at a meeting on the 7th of the preceding January, declared and published their sentiments and wishes for peace with America and a renewal of friendship. It was also further learnt that it was the prevailing sense of the British House of Commons, as a first step to an accommodation with America, to change the mode of carrying on the war, and "Robert Oliver, 3rd Massachusetts. 318 to act only on the defensive, on the Continent; and that the person who should advise to offensive operations against the Americans, should be considered as an enemy to the King and nation. At the same time, France and Holland appeared to be making great preparations for a vigorous campaign. 6th. — Symptoms of a dangerous mutiny were discovered in the Connecticut line; it had been conducted with so much address as to have been nearly matured before it was divulged. Under the pressure of real or supposed griev ances, the soldiers of the whole line had determined at reveille the next morning to have marched from their can tonment with arms, &c. complete, for Fishkill, where they were to take a number of field- pieces and such ammunition and provisions as might be necessary and then proceed to Hartford and there demand of their new General Assembly that justice which they supposed was their due. Just as the officers were going to bed, a faithful soldier who was waiter to an officer came to his room, and told the officer that he could not go to rest until he divulged to him an event which would assuredly take place the next morning at break of day ; and that everything was then in readiness for it — and laid open the whole secret. The matter was immediately communicated to the principal officers of the line, and sev eral soldiers were seized and confined, and one suffered. The Avhole design was frustrated. Mutiny is a most horrid offence in an army, which, without strict order and disci pline, is but a rope of sand. On the other hand, human nature can bear but to a certain degree, and no further; hence any trial of human nature, beyond such a degree, is impolitic, and unjustifiable. Of this line, it may with strict justice be said, that their whole conduct through the war was highly meritorious. 7th. — A stop was put to the inoculation with the small pox. 8th. — A prisoner was sent up, and a deserter came in. 9th. — News was received that there had been a total 319 change of the British Ministry, and that Fort St. Philip and the whole island of Minorca surrendered to the Span iards on the 6th of the preceding February, by capitula tion. 15th. — Eleven trusty Sergeants were sent to Massachu setts to march on the recruits to the army from that State. 17th. — Two deserters came in, who reported that a packet had arrived at New York from England. 24th. — Near 100 old and decrepit soldiers were collected from the different regiments, and many of them dis charged. About this time a packet arrived at Boston in 25 days' passage from France; the letters were immedi ately forwarded to Congress. 26th. — The 1st Massachusetts brigade was ordered to move out of its cantonment and encamp near the German Huts. The United States of Holland acknowledged the inde pendence of the United States of America, the 28th of the preceding March. There was a great talk of peace in New York. In the American army great preparations for some time had been making to celebrate the birth of the Dauphin of France. At least 1000 men a day were employed, under the direction of the engineers and other artists, in constructing a most superb arbor, decorated with every emblem and device descriptive of the occasion, and the alliance between France and America, which ingenuity could invent; and perhaps for any thing of the kind, constructed in the field, was never surpassed. 31st. — The birth of the Dauphin of France was cele brated by the American army. An elegant dinner was provided by order of the Commander in Chief, of which the officers of the army and a great number of ladies and gentlemen, invited from the adjacent country, partook. Thirteen toasts were drank, announced by the discharge of cannon. At evening there was a grand feu-de-joy, opened by the discharge of thirteen cannon, three times 320 repeated. The feu-de-joy, being fired in the dusk, had a pleasing appearance to the eye, as well as the ear, and was so ordered for that purpose. The army was not formed in line, but each brigade was drawn up in front of its own cantonment, or camp, on both sides of the river, and thus were in a circle of several miles circumference, in the cen tre of which the Commander in Chief and the spectators were placed. After the feu-de-joy there was an exhibition of fire-works, &c. June 2d. — Information was received that the Island of New Providence and its dependencies were taken by the Spaniards on the 11th of the preceding May. The garri son, which consisted of about 200 men, were sent to Europe. The new frigate South Carolina, built in Europe, arrived about this time in the Delaware; she was an ex ceeding fine ship, mounting 28 42-pounders on one deck, and 12 12-pounders on her quarter and fore-castle. She was commanded by Commodore Gillon. There had been a bloody engagement in the West Indies the 12th of the preceding April, between the Count de Grasse and Admiral Rodney ; but all the accounts had been very vague. The British now published their account, and that they took from the French the Ville de Paris, of 110 guns, and 1300 men ; Le Glorieux, Le Cesar, and Le Hector, of 74 guns each ; and Le Ardent, of 64 guns, and sunk one ship of the line. They acknowledged to have had 236 men killed, and 779 wounded; among whom were several offi cers. They also boasted of having obtained a very signal advantage in the European seas, over Admiral Kempelfelt. 5th. — It was reported that a French fleet had been seen on the American coast. A fleet about this time sailed from New York eastward through the Sound, conjectured to be destined to Penobscot. The brigades of the American army daily manoeuvred, and fired to great acceptation. 14th. — The British had been removing a number of heavy cannon and ordnance stores from their works at the north 321 end of New York island, and placing light pieces in the room of them. A number of deserters daily came in. 24th. — The Commander in Chief sent the following letter to our General : Head-Quarters, Newburg June 24th, 1782. " Dear Sir, I am at this moment setting out for Albany and shall be absent a few days. I give you this information for the reg ulation of your own conduct; and request, in the meantime, you will give me any intelligence you may receive which you shall deem of sufficient consequence for communica tion bv express. .„. ,. _ „„ (Signed) G. Washington. Maj. Gen. Heath." 26th. — It was learnt from Canada, that several armed A-essels and a number of batteaux had come up Lake Cham plain ; there were probably about 300 men. A much larger force, (report said 3000) was gone or going towards Lake Ontario, to establish a post at Oswego. 27th. — Another ship came up the North River and took a station near Spuyten Duyvil Creek. July 2d. — The Commander in Chief returned from Al bany. 4th. — The army fired a grand feu-de-joy, it being the an niversary of the declaration of American Independence. 11th. — At evening, the Commander in Chief wrote our General the following letter: "Dear Sir Head-Quarters, July 11th, 1782. I have at this moment received a letter from Count de Rochambeau, (by one of his Aids, in 5 days from Williams burg) informing me that he is on his way to Philadelphia; that he will be there the 13th or 14th, and, wishes for an in terview with me; for this purpose I shall set out in the morning, very early, and have only to request your usual (Signed) G. Washington. Maj. Gen. Heath." 322 13th. — Two prisoners of war were sent up, and three German deserters came in, and the next day a dra goon with his horse, &c. complete. About this time the southern mail was taken between Philadelphia and Morris- toAvn. 18th. — It was learnt that on the 21st of the preceding May, Gen. Wayne obtained a considerable advantage over the enemy, with very little loss on his side, near Ogeechee, in Georgia ; the enemy retired into Savannah. About this time, a Corporal and 8 men deserted from our block-house at Dobbs' Ferry. 21st. — Three deserters came in. About this time a fleet of about 40 sail arrived at Sandy Hook under convoy of two frigates ; they were supposed to be from Ireland. 22d. — Three deserters came in from the British grena diers; two others deserted at the same time, but had not got in. The same day four deserters came in from the Hussar frigate, and the next day three soldiers. At this time the cow thieves and refugees were lurking in the Highlands, and detachments were sent out to patrol them. 26th. — Information was received that a party of the enemy to the number of 4 or 500 had appeared on the Mo hawk River, advancing towards Herkimer. They killed a Continental soldier. 27th. — Gen. Washington returned to Newburgh from Philadelphia. August 2d. — The British May and June packets had ar rived at New York. Admiral Barrington had taken a French man-of-war of 74 guns, and several transports des tined for the East Indies. . The next day it was learnt that a French fleet, consisting of 12 or 13 sail of the line, and 3 frigates, had arrived in the Chesapeake. On the 29th ult. a bloody engagement took place off the Chesapeake between the French frigate Amazone of 36 guns, and the British frigate Margaretta, which terminated in favour of the latter. 6th. — Information was received that the British had evacuated Savannah in Georgia. 323 8th. — Four deserters came in from the enemy. 10th. — The prospect of an approaching peace brightened. Gen. Sir Guy Carleton and Admiral Digby informed Gen. Washington that Mr. Grenville had gone over to France on the negotiation for peace, and that the independence of America was to be acknowledged previous to, or as an opening of the negotiation. The refugees at New York were greatly alarmed at the prospect of peace. Sir Guy Carleton had notified the inhabitants to meet him ; and, in Rivington's paper of the 7th, there appeared a proclama tion advising the refugees to continue their loyalty and make themselves easy until the event of the negotiation was known. 12th. — A large stone magazine, capable of containing 1000 barrels of gun powder, Avas begun to be erected on Constitution Island; it was built upon the principles of Monsieur Vauban, and under the direction of Maj. Ville- franche. 15th. — It was learnt that the French fleet, which had been at the Chesapeake, had arrived at Boston. The Brit ish troops evacuated Savannah the 11th of July, leaving the town and works uninjured. Previous to the evacua tion, the refugees sent out to Gen. Wayne, to know if they might depend on protection in their persons and property ; they were answered in the affirmative, until they were de livered over to the civil authority, Avho, they were informed, must decide on their case. When the British left the town near 200 of the inhabitants immediately entered the Ameri can service in the Georgia battalion. 19th. — Three prisoners of war were sent up; they Avere taken near East Chester. Several deserters came in about the same time. 22d. — The light infantry of the American army moved down, and encamped near Peek's Kill. 24th. — Maj. Gen. Knox was in the general orders ap pointed to the command of West Point. The artillery, sappers and miners, 10th Massachusetts regiment, and the corps of invalids, for the garrison. 324 From the 25th to the 27th, inclusive, 7 deserters came in; they reported that the sick of the British army were ordered to be sent on board the hospital ships, and not to the hospitals on shore. The heavy baggage was also or dered to be put on board the shipping ; the officers to retain on shore no more than what was of absolute necessity. 29th. — An order of encampment and battle for the American army was published. The army was to encamp in one line with a reserve; the New Jersey and New York troops were to form a division under the command of Maj. Gen. St. Clair ; the Connecticut troops, a division under Maj. Gen. M'Dougal ; these two divisions to form the right wing, to be commanded by Maj. Gen. Gates; the New Hampshire brigade and the first brigade of Massachusetts, to form a division under the command of Maj. Gen. Lord Stirling; the 2d and 3d Massachusetts brigades, a division under the command of Maj. Gen. Howe; these two divisions forming the left wing under the command of Maj. Gen. Heath. The 2d Connecticut and 3d Massachusetts brigades to form the reserve; and when the ground would admit, form at 200 paces in the rear of the army. Maj. Gen. Lord Stirling was ordered to Albany to take command of that part of his di vision which was then in that quarter. 31st. — As many of the army as could be carried in the boats embarked at their respective brigade landings, and the whole of the boats being formed in order, fell down the river to Verplank's Point, where the troops disembarked and encamped. They made a most beautiful appearance when in the boats and in motion. The remainder of the army marched down by land. September 1st. — Information was received that the Brit ish Avere on the eve of evacuating Charleston, South Caro lina. The season was remarkably dry, both to the eastward and southward ; it was with difficulty that the army could obtain a supply of water. About this time an embarkation of Hessian troops took place at New York. 7th. — There was a grand review and manoeuvre of the army, which gave great satisfaction. The July packet 325 arrived at New York about this time ; it appeared that the Marquis of Rockingham had died, that Mr. Fox and Lord Cavendish had resigned their places, and that Lord Shel burne was appointed one of the Secretaries of State. 14th. — The American army was under arms to receive Gen. Count de Rochambeau; after his reception, the army defiled before him, and returned to their respective encamp ments. The French army was now arriving from the southward; they encamped to tlie south of Peek's Kill as they arrived. 16th. — The enemy made a grand forage near Valentine's Hill ; Sir Guy Carleton was out in person, as was the young prince. The covering party, it was said, consisted of 5 or 6000 men ; a number deserted. The American army at this time was in great want of forage, occasioned by the dry season. 18th. — The last of the French army arrived. 20th. — Gen. Washington reviewed the French army ; the troops made a fine appearance. A French frigate had been run on shore in the Delaware and taken by the enemy. 21st. — The American army manoeuvred before the Com mander in Chief, Gen. Rochambeau, and many other offi cers. The troops made a handsome appearance and ma noeuvred well. 22d. — It was learnt that the ships of war and transports at New York were watering and preparing for sea, and a number of regiments were under orders for embarkation. A little before this time, Congress had authorized and em powered Gen. Washington to adjust and finally settle the accounts subsisting between the United States and the British government respecting the support of the prisoners of war on both sides ; and to provide, by a general cartel, for their greater comfort and exchange, under the great seal ratifying what he, the Commander in Chief of their army, should agree to. Gen. Washington transferred this power to Major-Generals Heath and Knox, whom he appointed Commissioners for the purpose, and instructed them not to proceed to business unless the British Commissioners were 326 found to be equally empowered to bring the business to a final issue. The time and place of meeting were agreed to by the two Commanders in Chief, and was to be on the 25th of September, at Tappan. 24th. — The American Commissioners sent down -two of their Aids-de-Camp to take up the necessary quarters, and make other preparations, and a company of light infantry was ordered to Tappan to furnish guards and centinels. 25th. — The American Commissioners embarked on board their barges at King's Ferry and fell down the river to Tappan Landing, where they arrived about 2 o'clock, P. M. In less than half an hour the British Commissioners, in two vessels wearing flags, came up the river, and cast anchor off the Landing. The American Commissioners waited at the shore, and sent off their barges to aid in bringing the British Commissioners on shore, the river being at that time very rough ; on their reaching shore, it was found that Lieut. Gen. Campbell and the Hon. Mr. Elliot, who had been Lieut. Governor of New York, were the Commissioners on the part of the British. The whole dined together, an elegant dinner having been ordered by the American Com missioners, and politeness and great sociability took place, and mutual arrangement for the daily support of the table was agreed on, as it was expected that the business would not be completed in less than three or four weeks, if the whole object was adjusted. 26th. — The Commissioners interchanged copies of their respective powers; these were to be considered until the next day, when answers were to be given in writing whether the powers were satisfactory on both sides. On examining the powers given to the British Commissioners, it appeared that their doings would not be conclusive until confirmed, and were very short of those held by the American Commissioners, whose agreement and signature were to be final. 327 27th. — The American Commissioners stated to the Brit ish Commissioners that the powers with which they were vested were inadequate to effect the expectations of the government of the United States, and that therefore the ne gotiation must be broken off. Of the great difference of the powers the British Commissioners were fully convinced. The American Commissioners thought it to be their duty when they gave their note of objections to the British del egated powers, to hand with it a very pointed protest, in behalf of the United States, against that conduct on the part of the British, which had so long delayed the settle ment of the accounts for the support of the prisoners of Avar which were in the power of the United States. The Commissaries of Prisoners on both sides were present, to present and support their respective accounts ; and a settle ment would not only have been just, but also very interest ing to the United States. 28th. — About 12 o'clock at noon the Commissioners parted with the same politeness and good humour with which they had met, and which had invariably- continued during the time they were together. Our General sent or ders to the commanding officer at Dobbs' Ferry to permit the British flags to pass down the river, and the American Commissioners returned to camp. The day before, (the 27th) Gen. Washington, covered by the dragoons and light infantry, reconnoitred the grounds on the east side of the river, below the White Plains, and on the 29th, about noon, returned to camp. October 3d. — It was learnt that the enemy had evacuated Lloyd's Neck, and destroyed their works at that place; their works at Bergen Point, in the Jersies, had been de stroyed before that time. 5th.— Maj. Gen. Gates arrived at camp. At this time the horses of the army were suffering for want of forage. 6th. — Intelligence was received from the southward that 328 on the 27th of August, Col. Laurens1 was killed in a skirm ish with the enemy ; the loss of this brave young officer was much regretted. The enemy, previous to their leaving Charleston, desired to purchase some provisions, and Gen. Leslie had intimated to Gen. Greene that if this could not be permitted, he must take the provisions by force. The former being denied, the latter was attempted, and Col. Laurens fell; 24 or 25 others were killed, wounded, or taken prisoners, and one howitzer fell into the hands of the enemy. 7th. — Intelligence was received that Maj. Gen. Lee had died, a little before, at Philadelphia; he had just before sold his estate in Virginia for £6,100 sterling. 8th. — The weather beginning to grow cold and blowing, all the bowers (which were numerous and very salutary, during the hot season) were ordered to be pulled down and removed, to prevent accidents by fire, and to admit the ben efit of the sun. 12th. — Intelligence was received from Europe by the ar rival of a vessel in 34 days from Amsterdam, that the nego tiation for peace was going on, and that additional Min isters and Envoys had gone to attend; that the combined fleets were all in port ; that the siege of Gibraltar was con tinued, and that there had been an obstinate engagement in the East Indies, between the French and English fleets, in which both fleets had suffered much, but no ships were taken by either side. The insurrection in South America had been quelled. 15th. — A new contract for supplying the army with pro visions, under Messrs. Wadsworth and Carter, took place. 16th.— A grand manoeuvre was performed by eight picked battalions, preparatory to a grand review, which was to be the next day. On the 19th (several preceding days having been stormy) the grand manoeuvre was performed by the eight picked battalions. The evolutions and firings were performed 1 John Laurens. 329 with regularity and exactness, much to the credit of the troops, and general satisfaction of the numerous spectators of the American and French armies. 20th. — The Secretary of War arrived at camp. The enemy were demolishing their works at No. 8, Morrisania. Intelligence was received that the besiegers of Gibraltar had made a nearer approach to the place, and were playing upon it with 200 pieces of artillery. 22d. — The first division of the French army moved east ward ; they were to halt at Hartford, in Connecticut, where the whole were to rendezvous. The American army was put under orders to be ready to move at the shortest notice. The August packet from England arrived at New York the day before. 24th. — The whole American army manoeuvred before the Hon. the Secretary of War. The Commander in Chief, in the orders of the day, expressed his own as well as the Sec retary of War's fullest approbation. 26th. — At reveille, the left wing of the American army, under the command of our General, struck their tents and marched from the encampment as far as the wood near the north redoubt, in the Highlands, where they remained dur ing the night ; the day and night were rainy, and the troops had no covering but the heavens. 27th. — The troops crossed the Hudson in boats to West Point, the whole having crossed by half past 12 o'clock. In the afternoon, the troops took up their line of march, and ascended Butter Hill, a tedious march, and halted and passed the night on the northern descent of the hill, in the open field. 28th. — At 7 o'clock A. M. the troops resumed their march from Butter Hill, and reached the ground on which they were to build their huts, in New Windsor, at about half past 10 o'clock, A. M. Upon this ground, and its vicinity, the army passed the ensuing winter. The cantonment, for its nature and kind, was regular and beautiful. Upon an eminence, the troops erected a building handsomely fin- 330 ished, with a spacious hall, sufficient to contain a brigade of troops on Lord's days, for public worship, with an orches tra at one end ; the vault of the hall was arched ; at each end of the hall were two rooms, conveniently situated for the issuing of the general orders, for the sitting of Boards of Officers, Courts Martial, &c. and an office and store for the Quarter-Master and Commissary departments. On the top was a cupola and flag-staff, on which a flag was hoisted occasionally for signals, &c. In this cantonment the army spent the winter very comfortably, and it proved to be their last winter quarters. 30th. — It was learnt that on the 26th or 27th, fourteen British men-of-war of the line, one 44 gun ship, seven frig ates, three large transports, and ten or twelve brigs and schooners sailed from New York, it was conjectured for the West Indies. They were observed to sail nearer under Long Island than usual, and came to near the place where Gen. Howe landed in the year 1776, where it was conjec tured troops now embarked. On the 7th of the preceding August, Congress passed res olutions directing the Secretary of War, on or before the 1st day of January following, to cause the non-commis sioned officers and privates belonging to the lines of the several States, to be arranged in such a manner as to form complete regiments, agreeable to the acts of Congress of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, of regiments of not less than 500 rank and file, the junior regiments to be drafted to fill the senior regiments. The regiments so formed to be completely officered; the officers to agree and determine who should stay in service; or if this could not be effected by agreement, the juniors who were supernumerary of each grade were to retire, retaining their rank, and be entitled to the emoluments to which the officers were entitled Who re tired under the resolutions of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780. In consequence of these resolutions, the Commander in Chief on this day (30th of Oct. ) ordered the regiments of the Massachusetts line to be reduced to 8 regiments of 500 331 rank and file each, or as near as could be to that number ; and the Connecticut line to 3 regiments of similar strength, with 3 Field Officers, 9 Captains, 19 Subalterns, 1 Surgeon, and 1 Mate each ; and the regiments were formed accord ingly. November 1st. — It was learnt from Europe that the Royal George, a first-rate English man-of-war, of 110 guns, had been overset near Spithead by a sudden flaw of wind as she lay heeled to repair a leak on the other side; that she sunk in about 8 minutes, having on board 12 or 1300 souls, about 900 of whom perished. 5th. — Our General left the army, and commenced his journey to the eastward, and arrived at his house in Rox bury on the 11th. 12th. — There was a transit of Mercury over the north west limb of the sun's disk. The preceding week, one of the French men-of-war in Portsmouth harbour, (N. H.) was struck by lightning and her foremast damaged. The French army were now on their march towards Boston. The America, a fine new 74 gun ship, the first of her rate built in the United States, and which had not long before been presented by Congress to his most Christian Majesty, was launched at Portsmouth on Tuesday, the 5th instant. 18th. — The field artillery of the. French army reached Boston. The same day it was reported that the British troops had left Charleston, South Carolina. 21st. — The French discharged their artillery horses to the number of several hundreds. 27th. — Intelligence was received from Spain that the British had relieved Gibraltar and taken a Spanish 70 gun ship; several of their gun-boats were also destroyed. Had Spain long before this given over the siege of Gibraltar and employed her naval and land forces against the British in some quarter more vulnerable, solid advantage might have accrued, much money and many lives have been saved. 332 [1782 28th. — General Thanksgiving throughout the United States. The French fleet, under the command of the Mar quis de Vaudreuil, was at this time in Nantasket Road, ex cept a few ships which were at Portsmouth, New Hamp shire. December 2d. — Maj. Gen. Baron Viomenil, commander of the French army, (Count Rochambeau not coming this way) arrived at Boston from Providence. The troops were coming forward in divisions, at one day's march distance from each other. The first division arrived at Boston on the 5th in the morning. 6th. — In the morning, a ship lying in Boston harbour, laden with masts, destined to the West Indies, by some ac cident took fire and burnt down to the water's edge; the loss was very considerable. Advice was received from Eu rope that the Commissioners for settling peace were sitting at Paris; that matters were in forwardness; several arti cles had been agreed to, &c. A reinforcement of French ships and troops had arrived in the West Indies from France. This day the last division of the French army reached Boston. These troops embarked on board the men- of-war, were much crowded, and in danger of growing sickly if continued long on board. About this time, the American officers had been very uneasy respecting their great arrears of pay, &c, and soon after addressed Congress on the subject, and appointed a committee from the army to present their petition and support it. 11th. — The town of Boston presented an address to the French General and officers. 22d.— The French fleet had fallen down below the Castle and were in readiness to proceed to sea. The markets were at this time extremely high ; flour at 8 and some at 9 dol lars per hundred; butter was sold at 2s. 4djJ.yp fUda v u% lo pa^o? unfortunate Col. Gerrish as a scape-goat considered as a mysterious and inexplicable event. I have no private feeling to gratify by making this statement in relation to Gen. Putnam, as I never had any intercourse with him, and was only in the army where he was present for a few months ; but at this late period, I con ceive it a duty to give a fair and impartial account of one of the most important battles during the war of independ- endence, and all the circumstances connected with it so far as I had the means of being correct! v informed. It is a duty I owe to posterity, and the character of those brave officers who bore a share in the hardships of the revolution. Nothing like discipline had entered our army at that time. Gen. Ward, then commander in chief, remained at his quarters in Cambridge, and apparently took no interest or part in the transactions of the day. No general officer except Putnam, appeared in sight, nor did any officer assume the command, undertake to form the troops, or give any orders, that I heard, except Col. Stark, who directed his regiment to reserve their fire on the retreat of the enemy until they advanced again. Every platoon officer was engaged in discharging his own musket, and left his men to fire as they pleased, but never 387 without a sure aim at some particular object, which was more destructive than any mode which could have been adopted with troops who were not inured to discipline, and never had been in battle, but were still familiar with the use of arms from boyhood, and each having his peculiar manner of loading and firing, which had been practiced upon for years with the same gun ; any attempt to control them by uniformity and system, would have rendered their fires infinitely less fatal to the enemy. Not an officer or soldier of the Continental troops engaged was in uniform but were in the plain and ordinary dress of citizens; nor was there an officer on horseback. (Signed) H. Dearborn. In the foregoing accounts it will be noticed, as a thing hardly to have been expected, that the narrators should have so well agreed in all the leading features of their nar rations; when, too, it is considered that they were very little acquainted with each other during the Revolutionary War, never having served in the same corps or division of the army, or been intimate afterwards in civil life. In one particular only do they differ, and that of little or no consequence as respects the main transactions of the day. Heath and Wilkinson state that Gen. Warren fell at the commencement of or during the retreat. Dearborn says he fell early in the action. In this particular the veracity of the narrators is^not necessarily impeached. Heath and Wilkinson were neither of them present when the fate of Warren was sealed, and therefore must have made their statement from common report, or from the best information they could obtain at the time they wrote. Dearborn with more correctness tells us how he came by his information, for he was not person- 388 ally acquainted with Warren. Seeing a well-dressed man dead, he inquired who it was, and was told, "It is Dr. War ren." This was in the course of the action, and there could have been no inducement for the person inquired of to have given wrong information. This question is settled by Dea con Lawrence of Groton, who knew General Warren well, "saw him when the ball struck him, and from that time till he expired," and this was during the action. But what was not to have been expected, is, that all the above accounts should be contradicted and attempted to be invalidated by the statement of a Col. John Small of the British army, related to Col. John Trumbull in London, and by Trumbull related to Col. Daniel Putnam, the son of Gen. Putnam, and published by the latter gentle man in 1818, and is as follows : " In the summer of 1786, I became acquainted in London with Col. John Small, of the British army, who had served in America many years, and had known General Putnam intimately during the war of Canada from 1756 to 1763. From him I had the two fol lowing anecdotes respecting the battle of Bunker Hill ; I shall nearly repeat his words: Looking at the picture which I had almost completed, he said: " I do not like the situation in which you have placed my old friend Putnam; you have not done him justice.1 I wish you would alter that part of your picture, and introduce a circumstance which actually happened, and which I can never forget. When the Brit ish troops advanced the second time to the attack of the redoubt, I, with other officers, was in the front of the line to encourage the men ; we had advanced very near the works undisturbed, when an irregular fire like a feu-de-joie was poured in upon us ; it was cruelly fatal. The troops fell back, and when I looked to the right and left, I saw not one officer standing; I glanced my eye to the enemy and saw several young men levelling their pieces at me; I knew their 1 The injustice Small here alluded to, was that Trumbull in his picture of Bunker Hill,' had placed Putnam on the Mil above where the battle was and about 600 yards from it. 389 excellence as marksmen, and considered myself gone At that moment my old friend Putnam rushed forward, and striking up the muzzles of their pieces with his sword, cried out, "For God's sakes, my lads, don't fire at that man — I love him as I do my brother." We were so near each other that I heard his words distinctly. He was obeyed ; I bowed, thanked him, and walked away unmolested. The other anecdote relates to the death of Gen. Warren : "At the moment when the troops succeeded in carrying the redoubt, and the Americans were in full retreat, Gen. Howe (who had been hurt by a spent ball which bruised his ankle) was leaning on my arm. He called suddenly to me : " Do you see that elegant young man who has just fallen? Do you know him?" I looked to the spot towards which he pointed — " Good God, Sir, I believe it is my friend Warren." " Leave me then instantly — run — keep off the troops, save him if possible." I flew to the spot, " my dear friend," I said to him, " I hope you are not badly hurt" — he looked up, seemed to recollect me, smiled and died ! a mus ket ball had passed through the upper part of his head. John Trumbull. Daniel Putnam, Esq." If the story of Small is true, Dearborn is mistaken as to the time of Warren's death, and Heath, Lee and Winkinson as well as Dearborn, are mistaken as to who was the proper commanding officer in the redoubt. They all say Prescott was, but if Putnam was present in the redoubt, as Small would have it, then he was the commander, being senior to Prescott. There is considerable reason from the face of Small's story, to induce us to doubt its correctness. The conversa tion between Putnam and Small, considering the time, place and situation of the parties, is unnatural. If Put nam Was desirous of saving the life of Small, from former acquaintance and attachment, there could be no good rea- 390 son why he should not have made him a prisoner as was his duty, and certainly in his power. It is not probable that this conversation should have taken place, and eight hundred persons present in the redoubt, and within hearing distance, and no one then or since heard a word of it till 1818, thirty-three years after Small says it happened. The other part of Small's story relating to the death of Gen. Warren, is not more probable from the face of it. Warren was not a young man, as Small calls him, having received the honors of Harvard University in 1759, he was at least middle-aged. Small calls Warren his friend; this implies a previous and intimate acquaint ance. How could this have been; Warren was not in the War of Canada, and from the time Small arrived in Bos ton in 1775 to the day of Bunker Hill battle, Small was be sieged in Boston, and Warren presiding in the Provincial Congress at Watertown. It is not improbable from the face of Small's story to Trumbull, that Trumbull has mistaken his story, or more probable that the whole is the mere rodomontade of Small. It has always been acknowledged that Gen. Howe was the bravest among the brave, and exposed his person more than usual on that day, but Small surpassed him, for when Howe thought it prudent to retire from the scene of butch ery, Small remained exposed and alone, and uselessly so. If these observations, together with the impartial nar ratives of four general officers of the American army are not sufficient to entirely invalidate Small's statement, there is further and sufficient proof to destroy it. The following statement of Deacon Lawrence, under oath, goes directly to the point : " I, Samuel Lawrence, of Groton, Esquire, testify ane! say, that I was at the battle of Bunker Hill, (so-called) in Col. William Prescott's regiment; that I marched with the regiment to the point on Breed's Hill which was fixed 391 on for a redoubt; that I assisted in throwing up the work, and in forming a redoubt under Col. Prescott, who directed the whole of this operation. The work was begun about nine o'clock in the evening of June 16th, 1775. I was there the whole time, and continued in the redoubt, or in the lit tle fort during the whole battle, until the enemy came in and a retreat was ordered. Gen. Putnam was not present either while the works were erecting or during the battle. I could see distinctly the rail fence and the troops stationed there during the battle, but Gen. Putnam was not present as I saw. Just before the battle commenced, Gen. Warren came to the redoubt. He had on a blue coat, white waistcoat, and I think a cocked hat, but of this I am not certain — Col. Prescott ad vanced to him, said " he was glad to see him, and hoped he would take the command." General Warren replied, "no, he came to see the action, but not to take command ; that he was only a volunteer on that day." Afterwards I saw Gen eral Warren shot; I saw him when the ball struck him, and from that time until he expired. No" British officer was within forty or fifty rods of him from the time the ball struck him until I saw he was dead. (Signed) Samuel Lawrence/' Sworn to before Samuel Dana, Justice of the Peace, &c. The following statement of Samuel R. Trevett, point- tedly contradicts Col. Small's story. " I commanded a company of artilley from the town of Marblehead, attached to Col. Richard Gridley's regiment, stationed at Cambridge. • About one o'clock in the after noon of the 17th of June, 1775, I left Cambridge with my company for Bunker's Hill. When about a quarter of a mile from the Colleges I saw Gen. Putnam pass upon a horse towards the town of Cambridge, and in 15 or 20 min utes I saw him pass in like manner towards Charlestown. 392 When I arrived at Bunker's Hill, on the northwest side, I there saw Gen, Putnam dismounted in company with sev eral others. I halted my company and went forward to select a station for my pieces, and on my return saw Gen. Put nam as before; the American and English forces being then engaged. I proceeded on with my company and soon after joined that part of the American force at the rail fence, towards Mystic river; the Americans commenced a general retreat. As I was descending the northwest side of Bunker's Hill, I again saw Gen. Putnam in the same place, putting his tent upon his horse. I asked him where I should retreat with the field-piece I had brought off ; he replied to Cambridge, and I accordingly marched my company to Cambridge. In the month of May or June, 1795, being in the island of Guernsey, I had occasion in the course of business to call upon Maj. (alias Col.) Small, the Governor. After closing my business with him, he remarked that my coun tenance was not new to him, and enquired where he had seen me. I replied that it must have been at Col. Inger- soll's tavern in Boston — and that I had once been opposed to him in action. He immediately entered into a free and general conversation on the battle of Bunker's Hill —but he made no inquiry after Gen. Putnam, nor did he in any way, either directly or indirectly, allude to him, either as a friend or an officer. Samuel R. Trevett." Boston, June 2, 1818. Affidavit of Robert Bradford Wilkins. " I, Robert B. Wilkins, of Concord, county of Rocking ham, State of New Hampshire, do testify and say, that I acted as a private soldier in the battle of Breed's Hill, otherwise called the battle of Bunker's Hill, on the 17th of June, 1775 ; that I was attached to Capt. Levi Spaulding's company, of Col. James Reed's regiment; that I was on 3& that day stationed in Charlestown, below the Neck and on the main street; that our company proceeded from thence on to Bunker's Hill, over the hollow, and on to Breed's Hill, that after our company arrived at the works, near Mystic river, I was sent back on an errand, by the Captain, to the house where we had been stationed, and on returning by an route nearer to the Neck than that we first passed, I saw Gen. Putnam with Col. Gerrish, as near as I could judge, one hundred rods from the line and troops I had left; that the firing with small arms com menced after I had returned the second time; that in the action the enemy were three times repulsed ; that in the in terval between the second and third repulse, I received a severe wound from a musket ball in my right elbow joint, for which wound I have since received a pension from the government of the United States ; that I then left the field of battle just before the retreat of the Americans from the fort and passed on to Bunker's Hill, where I found Gen. Putnam and Col. Gerrish in nearly the same place where I first saw them; that I was then almost exhausted from the loss of blood ; that Col. Gerrish gave me some re freshment and bound a handkerchief around my arm at the place of my wound, and sent two men to assist me over the Neck, who left me before I had cleared the Neck, and I fell and lay on the ground until nearly all the Americans had retreated from the hill, when I was helped off. I served from the commencement to the close of the Revolutionary War, and acted successively as a pri vate, a Sergeant, Ensign and Lieutenant. Robert B. Wilkins/' Sworn to before Samuel Greene, Justice of the Peace, May 30, 1818. 394 Rev. Dr. William Bentley's statement. Salem, May 20, 1818. " I was with Gen. Stark on the 31st of May, 1810. I always had a deep interest in the man, and usually kept a notice of the subject of our conversation. I found him in great good humor, and soon upon his old war stories, which I did not take care minutely to preserve, because Maj. Caleb Stark had told me he was collecting every thing worthy of the public eye, and to be published after his father's decease, and in due honor of his memory. As among other objects, I intended to get a likeness, and was uncertain of success, among the maps, prints, and papers I carried him were some portraits, and among them was one of Gen. Putnam. I recollect upon the sight of the head of Gen. Putnam, he said, "My Chaplain," as he called me, "you know my opinion of that man. Had he done his duty he would have decided the fate of his country in the first action." He then proceeded to describe to me the scene of action, and the " pen," as he called the enclosed works and breast works, and gave his reasons for not entering it, and the want of judgment in the works. He then told me where he saw Gen. Putnam, and what was done on the occasion, and his remarks were as severe as his genius and the sentiments of ardent patriotism could make them. As Gen. Stark always used the same language on the subject, it will be recollected by many of his friends. William Bentley/' Certificate of the Rev. Daniel Chaplin, D. D. of Groton, and Rev. John Bullard of Pepperell. " This may certify the public, that we, whose names we have given, were in the habits of intimacy with Col. W. Prescott, of Pepperell, a man of the strictest integrity, during most of the period after he left the Revolutionary army until his death ; that at sundry times in conversation 395 with him about the war, particularly about the battle of Bunker Hill, so-called, he uniformly told us that Major General Warren came to the fort on Breed's Hill, which had been formed the night preceding, a little before the British made an attack on the works ; that he, Col. Prescott, said to Gen. Warren, " I am happy to see you, General," or using words to the same effect, "for you will now take com mand, and I will obey your orders and am relieved." Said General Warren to him in reply, " I have no command here, Col. Prescott, I am a volunteer ; I came to learn actual service." Prescott said, "I wish then you would look at the works we have thrown up, and give your opinion." War ren replied, "You are better acquainted with military mat ters than I am." After which they immediately parted and met not again. Col. Prescott further informed us repeat edly, that when a retreat was ordered and commenced, he was descending the hill, he met General Putnam and said to him, "Why did you not support me, General, with your men, as I had reason to expect, according to agreement?" Putnam answered, " I could not drive the dogs up." Pres cott pointedly said to him, " If you could not drive them up, you might have led them up." We have good reason to believe further, from declarations of some of our par- ishoners, men of respectability, whose veracity cannot be doubted, who belonged to Col. Prescott's regiment, and were present through the whole service, that Gen. Putnam was not on Breed's Hill the night preceding, or on that day, except that just before the attack was made, he might have gone to the fort and ordered the tools to be carried off, that they might not fall into the hands of the enemy, in the event of his carrying the works and holding the ground, and that he and his men, with Col. Gerrish remained on the side of Bunker Hill towards the Neck during the whole action. ( Signed ) Daniel Chaplin, John Bullard. Groton, June 5, 1818." 396 Statement of the Hon. Abel Parker, Judge of Probate. " As I was in the battle on Breed's Hill, other wise called Bunker's Hill, on the 17th day of June, 1775, and there received one ball through my leg, another having passed through my clothes, all accounts of that battle which 1 have seen published have been to me ex tremely interesting. But I have never seen any account which I considered in any degree correct until the one pub lished by Gen. Dearborn. On perusing that account with the utmost attention, I could discover but one mistake and that related to his assertion "that there was not a man that flinched," or to that effect, for his narrative is not now be fore me, and even in that case, I believe the General's as sertion may be strictly true if his meaning be confined to the time after his arrival on the hill. Previous to that, there were many who left the ground at the fort, particularly at the landing of the British troops ; but after the commence ment of the battle with small arms, I know of no man's leaving his post, until the order to retreat was given by Col. Prescott. But notwithstanding the correctness of Gen. Dearborn's description of that battle, some persons seem to be much exasperated by it, in particular as to what he asserted in regard to Gen. Putnam. As long as they con fined themselves to mere declamation without bringing forward- any evidence to disapprove the General's asser tion, I deemed it unnecessary for me to appear in vin dication of the General's statement. But on perusing a letter from Col. Trumbull to Col. Putnam, wherein men tion is made of a conversation with Col. Small in London, I concluded, notwithstanding my aversion to taking any part in a newspaper discussion, that to remain any longer silent, would be absolutely criminal. I shall, therefore, in as concise a manner as possible, state what I know relat ing to that memorable battle. Immediately after the bat tle of Lexington, I engaged in the service of my country, in Capt. John Nutting's company, in the regiment com- 397 manded by Col. William Prescott. Both of these officers belonged to the town of Pepperell, where I then lived. I was at this time a little more than twenty-two years of age. On the 16th day of June following, Colonel Prescott's reg iment with two or three others, were ordered to march and take possession of Bunker's Hill. On our arrival at the place called Charlestown Neck, a halt was made, and Capt. Nutting's company, with ten of the Connecticut troops, were detached to proceed into Charlestown as a guard, the remainder marched to the hill, which in fact was Breed's, and not Bunker's Hill, where they commenced building a small fort. In the morning, not far from sun-rising, the alarm was fired from the British vessel lying in the river. Sometime after this, Nutting's company left the town and marched to join the regiment on the hill. When we arrived there the fort was in considerable forwardness, and the troops commenced throwing up the breast-work mentioned by General Dearborn. We had not been long employed in that work before the cannon shot from a hill in Boston and the vessels lying in the river were poured in upon us in great profusion. However," the work progressed until it would answer the purpose for which it was designed. But the firing from the British artillery continued with unabated fury. Sometime before this, there was brought to the fort several brass field-pieces, one of which was actu ally fired towards Boston, but the ball did not reach the town. It had this effect, however, on the British, that it made them double their diligence in firing upon us. In the time of this heavy fire, I, for the first time that day, saw General Putnam standing with others, under cover of the north wall of the fort, where, I believe, he remained un til the British troops made their appearance in their boats. At this time the artillery was withdrawn from the fort, but by whose orders, I know not, and General Putnam, at, or near the same time, left the fort. The removing of the artillery and Gen. Putnam's departure took place a little before (if my memory be correct) the New Hampshire 39S troops made their appearance on the hill. I saw them when they arrived and witnessed their dexterity in throw ing up their breast-work of rails and hay. When the Brit ish first made their attack with small arms, I was at the breast- work, where I remained until I received my wound from the party who flanked it; I then went to the fort where I remained until the order to retreat was given by Col. Prescott. After my arrival at the fort I had a perfect op portunity of viewing the operations of the day, and dis tinctly noticed Col. Prescott as the only person who took upon him any command. He frequently ordered the men from one side to the other in order to defend that part which was prest hardest by the enemy; and I was within a few yards of him when the order to retreat was given; and I affirm that at that time Gen. Putnam was not in the fort, neither had he been there at any time after my enter ing the same; and I have no hesitation in declaring, that the story told by Col. Small to Col. Trumbull, concerning Gen. Putnam's saving him from the fire of our men at that time, is altogether unfounded. Abel Parker/' Jeffrey, N. H, May 27, 1818. Gen. Wilkinson in his account of the battle says, " he has been assured that the Massachusetts and New Hamp shire troops were the only ones engaged in the action. This is a mistake, and probably arose from the fact that Capt. Knowlton of the Connecticut line, with four lieutenants, and one hundred and twenty men, marched on to the hill on the evening of the 16th of June, 1775, with Col. Prescott and were considered a part of his command of one thou sand men. Botta, in his "History of the War of the In dependence of the United States of America," considers Prescott, Stark and Knowlton as separate commanders of 399 the allied forces engaged. He says: "The troops of Mas sachusetts commanded by Col. Prescott, occupied Charles town, the redoubt, and part of the trench; those of Con necticut, commanded by Capt. Knowlton, and those of New Hampshire, commanded by Col. Stark, the rest of the trench. Captain Knowlton was a native of Ashford, Connecti cut, and during the siege of Boston was promoted to a majority, and commanded the party which burnt the resi due of the buildings in Charlestown in the night time, which service was performed to the approbation of the commander in chief, under the fire of the enemy's batteries on Bunker's Hill, which they had fortified and then occupied. During the occupancy of New York by Washington, he was pro moted to a Lieutenant Colonelcy, and after the unfortun ate, if not disgraceful retreat of the Americans from that city, the enemy appeared before our lines at Harlem Heights, when Knowlton was personally called on by Wash ington to meet and check their advance, and inspirit our dejected army, which he did with alacrity and great ani mation. In this rencontre he lost his valuable life. He was a brave and intelligent officer and an ardent and upright patriot ; always first among equals. His four Lieutenants were John Keyes, Huntington, Thomas Grosvenor, and Esquire Hills. Keyes and Hills were both from Ashford1, and in 1818 both were alive and residing in the State of New York. How long they con tinued in the army or what rank they attained during the war of Independence is not known. But Keyes, after the war, had the title of General, and Hills that of Captain. By their contemporaries they were considered excellent officers. 1 Godfrey Grosvenor, Esq. of Minot, formerly of Connecticut, be lieves Gen. Huntington to have been one of Knowlton's Lieutenants. Lemuel Grosvenor, now Postmaster of Pomfret, Conn., now 79 years old, and who was in the army at Boston, is not certain; but names the three above, and if Huntington was not one, he is at a loss to recollect who was. 400 Huntington was afterwards promoted to the rank of Brig. General on the Continental establishment, and left the army at the close of the war with that rank. Grosvenor, at the close of the war, commanded a regi ment on the continental establishment. Both the latter gentlemen during their military career were always re spected and sometimes distinguished, as the rapidity of their promotions would indicate. In civil life they were highly respected. They were both living in Connecticut since the year 1818. Such a corps as Knowlton's, and thus officered, deserve to be noticed as the compeers of Prescott and Stark. Knowlton lost more men in the action than any corps of the army engaged in the action on Breed's Hill, according to the numbers he commanded. From the foregoing accounts it may be presumed that all the facts relative to this important day, of sufficient magnitude to be transmitted to posterity are to be found. And at least one mistake rectified. This relates to an indi vidual, Col. Samuel Gerrish, who, till this day stood high in the public estimation. He had been an officer of re spectable standing in the French war, and then recently elected unanimously by the Provincial Congress, the first Colonel in the Massachusetts forces. After this battle he was arrested for cowardice, tried, cashiered and univer sally execrated. No one in the army at the time who was acquainted with the transaction believed him guilty. The general opinion and conversation was, that the army that day were guilty of many sins, and Gerrish, being the largest man in it, was selected to make the atonement. The late Judge Tudor, who acted as Judge Advocate to the Court Martial, has publically and repeatedly said that he considered Col. Gerrish as very hardly dealt by. Col. James Scamman, who commanded a regiment on that day, from the County of York, and arrested, tried and ac quitted of the same charge, always declared, when speak ing of Gerrish's fate, that any officer in the army might 401 have been found guilty of the same offence, with as much justice as Gerrish. These individual opinions were not con sidered by many of sufficient weight to balance the opinion of a Court Martial and to rescue the character of Gerrish from infamy — although it may be admitted that all Courts, and especially Courts Martial, are oten influenced, if not governed, by feelings and prejudices, and sometimes by corruption. But when Gen. Dearborn, who always acted without fear or reproach, adds his opinion in favor of Ger rish, there seems to be no sufficient reason why he should not be fully credited. It is true Gerrish remained on Bunker Hill, out of the fire of the enemy during the action, and so did fifteen hun dred other officers and privates, who should have been in action, among whom was at least one Major General. It was never pretended that Gerrish was ever ordered by this general officer to go into action; but on the contrary, this general was desirous to fortify Bunker's Hill, instead of defending Breed's Hill, which was then attacked ; and eventually carried for the want of these very fifteen hundred men, who could have relieved those engaged in five minutes march. The reason Gen. Putnam says this was not done, was that he could not drive the dogs up. The motives which actuated Gen. Dearborn in making this statement in favor of the maltreated Gerrish, at the time he did, should be duly appreciated, as nothing but his respect for the truth, and his object that of rescuing the character of an honest patriot from unjust and cruel cen sure, could have induced him to make this statement. INDEX. Arnold, Benedict, 27, 253-56, 272, 308, 310. Allen, Ethan, 28. Asgill, Capt., 334-342. Baldwin, Jeduthan, 22. Barber, Col. Francis, 365. Barry, Capt. John, 292, 362. Battle (Battelle) Capt. John, 15. Bedel, Timothy, 46. Bennington, Battle of, 125. Bergen, action at, 102. Boston, Siege of, 22-43. Brandywine, Batltle of, 126. British Army in Boslton, 11. British Army advance on New York, 44-60. Brooklyn, Battle of, 56. Brier Creek, Ga., 203. Bryant, Capt, 126. Brown, Lt.' Col. John, 118, 240. Brown, Lt. Richard, 169, 175. Bunker's Hill, 18, 19, 20. Burgoyne, Surrender of, 132-36. Burgoyne, Letters, 140-184. Butt's Hill, 192-3. c Camden, Battle of, 252. Chapman, Major, 60. Crane, Thomas, 23, 58. Charlestown, Surrender of, 24-42. Chastellux, Chevalier de, 264-65. ChaJin at West Point, 263. Cherry Valley, Massacre at, 199. Chevaux de frise, 48. Church, Dr., 29. Cincinnati, Society of the, 381-82. Concord, 12. Cornwallis in the South. 276 et seg Cowpens, Battle of, 273. Dark Day In N. E., 236-38. De Hart, Major, 44. Declaration of Independence, 40. D'Estaing Count, 188, 191, etc. Dobbs Ferry, 69, 277, 295. Downer, Dr., 11, 200. Dunmore, 34. Dyckman, Abraham .130. Duel between officers, 331. East Chester, acltion at, 219. Egg Harbor, Massacre at, 196. Elbert, Col., 203. Enos, Col., 31. Eutaw Springs, Battle of, 315-16. Falmouith burnt, 29. Fernald, Capt. 204. Fireships, 53, 54. Fort Washington, capture of, 85- 87. Fort Clinton, capture of, 130. Fort Montgomery, capture of,130. French in R. I., 243-251. Gardner, Isaac, 14. Gates, Horatio, 21, 197, 252. Germantown, Battle of, 131-2. Gleason, Capt., 61. Greaton, Col., 24. Greene, Nathaniel, 21. Greene, Col. Christopher, 289. Gridley Richard, 22. Guilford, C. H., Battle of, 280. H Hackensack, expedition to, 99- 100. Harlem Heights, Battle of, 60. Harnage, Major Henry, 184-85. Harraden, Capt. J., 125. Henley, Major Thomas, 64-66. Hickey, Thomas, 48. Hopkins, Esek, 45. Hubbardton, Battle of, 121. Hobkirk's Hill, Battle of, 291. Honeywell, Capt., 326. Hopkins, Capt., 214. Huddy, Capt., 334-342. i