Military Journal, During the American Rev. War - Part 3



MILITARY JOURNAL - 1777

January 5th.-At the close of the last year, the situation of our main army 
was gloomy and discouraging: a large proportion of the troops had retired 
from service, as their term of enlistment expired, and the small remains 
of our army was retreating before the enemy, and passed the Delaware for 
safety. It is now announced in our general orders, to our inexpressible 
joy and satisfaction, that the scene is in some degree changed, the 
fortune of war is reversed, and Providence has been pleased to crown the 
efforts of our commander-in-chief with a splendid victory. His excellency, 
having obtained information that the advanced party of the enemy, 
consisting of about fifteen hundred Hessians and British light-horse, 
under command of Colonel Rahl, Was stationed at the village of Trenton, 
concerted a plan for taking them by surprise. For this purpose he made 
choice of Christmas night, under the idea that in consequence of the 
festivity, they might be less vigilantly guarded. At this time the whole 
force under his immediate command did not exceed three thousand men. At 
the head of about two thousand four hundred men, one division being 
commanded by General Greene and the other by General Sullivan, he crossed 
the river Delaware in boats, in the night of the 25th of December, during 
a severe storm of snow and rain. The passage of the boats was rendered 
extremely difficult and hazardous by the ice, and part of the troops and 
cannon actually failed in the attempt. Having landed on the Jersey shore, 
he had nine miles to march, and he reached the village about seven o'clock 
in the morning with such promptitude and secrecy, as to attack the enemy 
almost as soon as his approach was discovered. A smart firing ensued, 
which continued but a few minutes, when the enemy, finding themselves 
surrounded, threw down their arms and surrendered as prisoners. Colonel 
Rahl, the commanding officer, was mortally wounded, and seven other 
officers were wounded and left at Trenton on their parole. About thirty-
five soldiers were killed, sixty wounded, and nine hundred and forty-
eight, including thirty officers, were taken prisoners, amounting in all 
to one thousand and forty-eight. Of the Continentals not more than ten, it 
is supposed, were killed and wounded. General Washington recrossed the 
Delaware the same day in triumph, bringing off six excellent brass cannon, 
about one thousand two hundred small arms, and three standards, with a 
quantity of baggage, &c. This very brilliant achievement is highly 
honorable to the commander- in-chief, and to all that were engaged in the 
enterprise. We are sanguine in the hope that this most auspicious event 
will be productive of the happiest effects, by inspiriting our dejected 
army, and dispelling that panic of despair into which the people have been 
plunged . General Washington allowed the Hessian prisoners to retain their 
baggage, and sent them into the interior of Pennsylvania, ordering that 
they be treated with favor and humanity. This conduct, so contrary to 
their expectations, excited their gratitude and veneration for their 
amiable conqueror, whom they styled, "a very good rebel."

15th.-By some friends from the main army, and from current report, it 
appears that the British, having overrun the Jerseys, considered the 
Continental army as on the point of annihilation, and flattered themselves 
that whatthey term the rebellion, is effectually crushed. In their march 
through the Jerseys they have committed such licentious ravages and 
desolation, as must be deemed disgraceful by all civilized people; an 
indiscriminate robbery and plundering mark every step of their progress; 
rapine and murder, without distinction of friend or foe, age or sex, has 
been put in practice with an inexorable spirit, and countenanced by 
officers of rank and distinction. Even those unfortunate inhabitants who 
have been deluded by their promises, and received printed protections, are 
equally sufferers by these cruel and atrocious wretches. Hundreds of 
inhabitants, both male and female, have been deprived of their dwellings 
and sustenance, stripped of their clothing, and exposed to the inclemency 
of the winter, and to personal insult and abuse of almost every 
description. But their wicked career is about to be checked. Providence 
will not suffer such enormities to be perpetrated with impunity. Those 
miserable inhabitants, whose lives have been spared, are driven to 
desperation, and feel that they have no hope but in the extirpation of 
their cruel enemies. The people who have been subdued have, with a noble 
spirit, risen on their conquerors, and are resolved to revenge the 
injuries which they have suffered.

We are now informed of another very important advantage which General 
Washington has gained over the royal army by means of a well-concerted 
stratagem. After his success at Trenton, General Washington received 
considerable reinforcements of troops from Virginia and Maryland, and some 
regiments of militia, which enabled him again to cross the Delaware into 
the Jerseys and face the enemy. While at Trenton, Lord Cornwallis advanced 
to attack him, and a severe cannonade commenced. In the evening, General 
Washington ordered a great number of fires to be lighted up and leaving a 
sufficient number of men to keep them burning during the night, to deceive 
the enemy, stole a march with his main army, taking a circuitous route, 
and, at nine o'clock the next morning, attacked three regiments of the 
British who were posted at Princeton, routed them, and drove them from 
their redoubts. By this masterly manoeuvre, the enemy lost about five 
hundred in killed, wounded and prisoners. The loss on our side is very 
inconsiderable in point of numbers, but we have to lament the death of 
Brigadier-General Mercer, a brave officer, who commanded the Virginia 
militia. The fact is published, that after General Mercer surrendered 
himself, the enemy, deaf to the voice of humanity, stabbed him with their 
bayonets, and with the butt end of a musket battered and disfigured his 
face in a savage manner. It is to be remarked, that on this memorable 
occasion Lord Cornwallis was completely out-generaled; while he was 
expecting to find the Continental army at their lighted fires at Trenton, 
he was astonished and confounded to hear the firing occasioned by this 
same army, beating up their quarters twelve miles in his rear. His 
lordship immediately repaired by a forced march to Princeton, but arrived 
too late to retaliate on his vigilant antagonist, who had taken up his 
route to Morristown. Finding that the Continentals were out of his reach, 
his lordship proceeded without halting to Brunswick. Stratagems in war, 
when wisely concerted, and judiciously executed, are considered as 
characterizing a military genius of superior order, and is a quality of 
inestimable value in every commander. It is often exultingly remarked in 
our camp, that Washington was born for the salvation of his country, and 
that he is endowed with all, the talents and abilities necessary to 
qualify him for the great undertaking. The militia of Jersey, immediately 
on their being, liberated from the control of the British, flew to arms, 
exasperated and stimulated by a recollection of their sufferings, and have 
become their most bitter and determined enemies; and are very active and 
vigilant in harassing them on all occasions, keeping a continual watch, 
and cutting off small parties whenever opportunities offer. It is 
gratifying to the army that Congress have conferred on their 
Generalissimo, more ample powers, and appointed, him Dictator for the 
limited term of six months; to reform and new-model the military 
arrangements, in such manner as he may judge most advantageous for the 
public service. Much good is expected to result from this measure.

30th-It is with infinite satisfaction we learn that the royal army has 
been compelled to quit almost every part of the Jerseys, and that our army 
is pursuing them from post to post, and they find no security but in the 
vicinity of their shipping.

General Washington has issued a proclamation, commanding all persons 
having taken the oath of allegiance to Great Britain, and accepted 
protections and certificates, to deliver up the same and take the oath of 
allegiance to the United States - granting at the same time full liberty 
to all those who prefer the protection of Great Britain to the freedom and 
happiness of their country, forthwith to withdraw themselves and families 
to the enemy's lines.

The winter hitherto has been mild and temperate; Lake Champlain is now 
frozen over, and the ice is about one foot thick; the earth is covered 
with snow, but the storms have not been very violent, and the cold not so 
intense as might be expected in a northern climate. There have been 
frequent instances of persons being detected lurking about the country who 
are employed by the enemy in enlisting soldiers for the tory regiments in 
New York. In order effectually to prevent this nefarious conduct, every 
person of this description who may fall into our hands is to be tried by a 
court martial, and if found guilty, will be executed as a spy, A few days 
since one Daniel Strong was found lurking about our army at Peekskill, and 
on examination enlisting orders were found sewed in his clothes; he was 
immediately tried as a spy from the enemy, sentenced to suffer death, and 
was executed accordingly.

February.-The present unfortunate situation of General Lee, who is in 
close confinement in the provost prison, in New York, affords a topic for 
general conversation both in and out of the army. A correspondence between 
General Washington and General Howe has taken place relative to the 
subject, from which it appears that General Lee receives the most rigid 
and ungenerous treatment, under the absurd pretence that he is a deserter 
from the British service, when it is well known that he resigned his 
commission long before he before received an appointment in our army. As 
we have not in our possession any British officers of equal rank, General 
Washington has proposed to make an exchange of six Hessian field-officers 
for General Lee, that being considered as the usual proportion for the 
disparity of rank. This proposal being rejected, his excellency next 
required of General Howe, that General Lee should receive from his hands 
treatment suitable to his rank, and such as the custom of all armies has 
prescribed for prisoners of war. If this should be refused, General Howe 
was assured, that the unpleasant expedient of retaliation should be 
immediately adopted. This unhappy affair soon arrested the attention of 
Congress, and they resolved "that General Washington inform General Howe, 
that should the proffered exchange of General Lee not be accepted, and the 
ill treatment of him be continued, the principle of retaliation shall 
occasion five of the Hessian field-officers, together with Lieutenant-
Colonel A. Campbell, or any other officers that are or may be in our 
possession, equivalent in number or quality, to be detained in order that 
the same treatment which General Lee shall receive may be exactly 
inflicted on their persons." The result of this unfortunate business is, 
that the threatened retaliation has been resorted to on our part, and that 
Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell and five Hessian field-officers are committed 
to prison, and subjected to the same rigorous treatment which it has been 
ascertained is inflicted on the person of General Lee. Lieutenant-Colonel 
Campbell, being on parole near Boston is confined in the jail at Concord. 
In a letter to General Howe, which has been published, after acknowledging 
the liberal and generous attention which he had previously received he 
describes his present condition as being most horrid, and in his view 
altogether unjustifiable. It remains therefore with General Howe to afford 
to Colonel Campbell all the relief which he desires, and extend to him all 
the comforts and privileges which his rank demands, by first relaxing his 
severity, and complying with the rules of war as respects General Lee; it 
being the determination of our government to place the British prisoners 
in precisely the same circumstances with our prisoners in their custody. 
My leisure hours permit me to advert to another subject which excites the 
interest and the inexpressible indignation of every American. I allude to 
the abominable conduct of the British commanders towards our unfortunate 
officers and soldiers, who, by the fortune of war, have fallen into their 
hands. In all countries and armies, prisoners of war have a just claim on 
the duties of humanity; from the moment of their captivity hostilities 
should cease, the sword should be sheathed; being themselves disarmed, no 
arm can of right be lifted against them, and while they conduct in a 
manner becoming their condition, they are entitled to the customary 
immunities and to be treated with lenity. Among the savage tribes we know 
their captives are tortured by fire, by the scalping-knife, and the 
tomahawk, but we are yet, and, for the honor of human nature, hope we ever 
shall remain, unacquainted with any civilized nation, except the English, 
who devote their captives to various forms of destruction. It would seem 
that the application of the term rebel to our prisoners, is sufficient to 
reconcile the consciences of their victors to inflict on them the most 
unprecedented cruelties. The following is a brief summary of the 
systematic method adopted and practised for their destruction, as taken 
from the New London Gazette from General Washington's letter of complaint 
to General Howe, and from the verbal statement of the officers and 
soldiers who have returned from New York by exchange. They were crowded 
into the holds of prison-ships, where they were almost suffocated for want 
of air, and into churches, and open sugar-houses, &c., without covering or 
a spark of fire. Their allowance of provisions and water for three days, 
was insufficient for one, and in some instances, they were for four days 
entirely destitute of food. The pork and bread, for they had no other 
sustenance, and even the water allowed them, were of the worst possible 
quality, and totally unfit for human beings. A minute detail of their 
dreadful sufferings would only serve to harrow up the feelings of 
surviving friends; as a gross outrage against the principles of humanity, 
suffice it to say, that in consequence of the most barbarous treatment, 
died within a few weeks , not less than fifteen hundred American soldiers, 
brave young men, the pride and shield of our country. After death had 
released the sufferers their bodies were dragged out of the prisons, and 
piled up without doors, till enough were collected for a cart-load, when 
they were carted out and tumbled into a ditch, and slightly covered with 
earth. Besides the above diabolical treatment, the prisoners were 
continually insulted and tantalized by the British officers and malicious 
tories, cursing and swearing at them as rebels, saying, "this is the just 
punishment of your rebellion; nay, you are treated too well for rebels, 
you have not received half you deserve, and half you shall receive; but if 
you will enlist in his majesty's service, you shall have victuals and 
clothing enough." Thus these callous-hearted Englishmen meanly endeavored 
to augment the royal army by the enlistment of American prisoners, or to 
diminish the number of their opposers; but such was the integrity and 
patriotism of these men, that hundreds submitted to death rather than 
become rebels to their native country. In one instance, four of our 
wounded officers, of respectable rank, were put into a common dirt-cart, 
and conveyed through the streets of New York, as objects of derision, 
reviled as rebels, and, treated with the utmost contempt.

A friend who was unfortunately a prisoner in New York, has recently 
favored me with the following facts: In 1776, a number of prisoners were 
made by the British in our retreat from Long Island. Among others, a 
Lieutenant Dunscomb, of New York. He and his fellow-officers were ordered 
before the commanding-general, who, in harsh language, reproached them for 
their crime of rebellion and its necessary consequences. A gentleman 
present, began to plead their youth as an apology. It won't do, said 
General Howe, you shall all be hanged! "Hang, and be d--d," said Dunscomb. 
They hanged no one that I know of, but they played the fool by going 
through the farce of making them ride with a rope round their necks seated 
on coffins to the gallows. Otho Williams, subsequently adjutant-general to 
the southern army, and a most worthy and amiable gentleman, I particularly 
know was treated in this manner.

But, it may be inquired, if I mean to describe the British commanders as 
transformed into demons?

I only record notorious, facts, and it is not my journal, but the faithful 
and impartial pages of history that will. transmit to posterity this 
stigma on the English character. Gracious Heavens! are these the people 
from whom we derive our origin, and who are inviting the Americans to a 
reconciliation? A more dreadful curse can scarcely be denounced! It is 
worthy of observation, that the British and Hessian prisoners in our bands 
were treated in a manner directly the reverse of that just described, and 
they never found cause to complain. It is some satisfaction to find, that 
since the brilliant success of our army in the Jerseys, and a considerable 
number of British and Hessians having fallen into our hands, the cruel 
severities inflicted on our prisoners have been in some degree mitigated. 
To the foregoing unparalleled catalogue of criminal proceedings, I have to 
add, from another writer, that the enemy wantonly destroyed the New York 
water-works, an elegant public library at Trenton, and the grand orrery 
made by the celebrated Rittenhouse, which was placed in the college at 
Princeton, a piece of mechanism which the most untutored savage, staying 
the hand of violence, would have beheld with wonder and delight. Thus are 
our cruel enemies warring against liberty, virtue and the arts and 
sciences. To make war against literature and learning is the part of 
barbarians. I cannot resist the temptation to transcribe a few paragraphs 
from an elegant speech of Governor Livingston to the general assembly of 
the state of New Jersey, March the 5th. "They have plundered friends and 
foes; effects, capable of division, they have divided; such as were not, 
they have destroyed: they have warred on decrepid old age, warred on 
defenceless youth; they have committed hostilities against the professors 
of literature and the ministers of religion, against public records and 
private monuments; books of improvement, and papers of curiosity; and 
against the arts and sciences. They have butchered the wounded, asking for 
quarter; mangled the dead, weltering in their blood; refused to the dead 
the rites of sepulture; suffered prisoners to perish for want of 
sustenance; insulted the persons of females; disflgured private dwellings 
of taste and elegance, and, in the rage of impiety and barbarism, profaned 
edifices dedicated to Almighty God."

Lake Champlain is now open, and free from ice in its whole extent, and the 
hostile Indians begin to lurk about our lines, laying wait for their prey. 
A party of these savages in the British interest, a few days since, 
discovered about thirty of our unarmed recruits on their way to join their 
corps at Fort George; they immediately made their attack, killed and 
tomahawked some, made several prisoners, and escaped towards Canada; a few 
of these men fortunately escaped, and several that were wounded were 
brought into our lines. Colonel Whitcomb with a party of continentals was 
ordered to pursue the Indians; he overtook part of them, and killed 
several, but the prisoners were carried off beyond his reach.

An enterprise of little importance has lately been put in execution by a 
detachment of royalists from New York. Their object was to destroy some 
stores which were deposited at Peekskill. General McDougal, who had the 
command of the post, with a small number of men, found it prudent to 
retire, and the enemy accomplished in part the object of the expedition. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Willet, however, with only sixty men, came on them by 
surprise, when a skirmish ensued, which obliged them to retire with great 
precipitation on board their vessels in the North River, after having 
suffered a considerable loss.

April 1st.-The term of service of Colonel Whitcomb's regiment having 
expired, they have now left the service, and returned to New England. 
Having received an invitation from Dr. Jonathan Potts, the surgeon-general 
in this department, to accept the office of surgeon's-mate in the general 
hospital, I have received the said appointment, and commenced my official 
duties accordingly at this place; Dr. D. Townsend being at the same time 
appointed senior surgeon. We find here about eighty soldiers laboring 
under various diseases, and eight or ten that have been cruelly wounded by 
the savages who have been skulking in the woods in the vicinity. In our 
retired situation here, we are unacquainted with any military transactions 
in other quarters till they transpire in the public papers.

May.-It is just announced that the enemy have undertaken an expedition to 
Danbury, in Connecticut, for the purpose of destroying a magazine of 
stores at that place. Governor Tryon, a major-general of the Provincial 
troops in New York, was the commander of the detachment, consisting of one 
thousand eight hundred men, and Brigadier-General Agnew and Sir. W. 
Erskine were commanders under him. When the enemy had landed and commenced 
their operations in their usual manner, by burning and destroying houses 
and other buildings, the country was alarmed, the militia collected, and 
were commanded by Major-General Wooster, Brigadier-Generals Arnold and 
Silliman. A smart action soon ensued, and continued about one hour, in 
which our militia and a small number of continentals conducted with 
distinguished bravery, but being overpowered by a superior force, they 
were obliged to retreat. The amount of stores destroyed by the enemy was 
very considerable, but the loss of valuable officers and men is infinitely 
more Important. General Wooster was mortally wounded, and died soon after. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Gould and four or five other officers were killed, and 
about sixty men were killed and wounded. Among the slain is Dr. Atwater, a 
respectable character, whose death is greatly lamented. General Arnold had 
his horse shot under him when within ten yards of the enemy, and a soldier 
was advancing with fixed bayonet towards him, when, with great presence of 
mind, he drew his pistol from his holsters, and instantly shot him through 
the body. On the side of the royalists the loss, as stated by General 
Howe, is one hundred and seventy-two in killed, wounded and missing, but 
by other accounts it is much more considerable. Among their wounded is 
Brigadier-General Agnew and two other field-officers.

A Captain Roofa and his lieutenant, two noted tories, lately taken in arms 
as they were marching towards the enemy, were condemned by a court 
martial, and hanged at Esopus, in the state of New York, as a suitable 
reward, says a writer in the newspaper, for their treasonable practices, 
they having induced a number of others to enlist in tices, the the service 
of the enemy.

June.-Congress have appointed Major-General Schuyler to command in the 
northern department, including Albany, Ticonderoga, Fort Stanwix and their 
dependencies, and Major-General St. Clair has the immediate command of the 
posts of Ticonderoga and Mount Independence. It is also understood that 
the British government have appointed Lieutenant-General Burgoyne 
commander-in-chief of their army in Canada, consisting, it is said, of 
eight or ten thousand men. According to authentic reports, the plan of the 
British government for the present campaign is that General Burgoyne's 
army shall take possession of Ticonderoga, and force his way through the 
country to Albany; to facilitate this event, Colonel St. Leger is to march 
with a party of British, Germans, Canadians and Indians to the Mohawk 
river, and make a diversion in that quarter. The royal army at New York, 
under command of General Howe, is to pass up the Hudson river, and, 
calculating on success in all quarters; the three armies are to form a 
junction at Albany. Here, probably, the three commanders are to 
congratulate each other on their mighty achievements, and the flattering 
prospect of crushing the rebellion. This being accomplished, the 
communication between the southern and eastern states will be interrupted, 
and New England, as they suppose, may become an easy prey. Judging from 
the foregoing detail, a very active campaign is to be expected, and events 
of the greatest magnitude are undoubtedly to be unfolded. The utmost 
exertions are now making to strengthen our works at Ticonderoga, and, if 
possible, to render the post invulnerable. Mount Independence, directly 
opposite to Ticonderoga, is strongly fortified and well supplied with 
artillery. On the summit of the mount, which is table-land, is erected a 
strong fort, in the centre of which is a convenient square of barracks, a 
part of which are occupied for our hospital. The communication between 
these two places is maintained by a floating bridge; it is supported on 
twenty-two sunken piers of very large timber, the spaces between these are 
filled with separate floats, each about fifty feet long and twelve wide, 
strongly fastened together with iron chains and rivets. A, boom composed 
of large pieces of timber, well secured together by riveted bolts, is 
placed on the north side of the bridge, and by the side of this is placed 
a double iron chain, the links of which are one and a half inch square. 
The construction of this bridge, boom and chain, of four hundred yards in 
length, has proved a most laborious undertaking, and the expense must have 
been immense. It is however, supposed to be admirably adapted to the 
double purpose of a communication, and an impenetrable barrier to any 
vessels that might attempt to pass our works. By way of amusement I went 
with three gentlemen of our hospital to endeavor to explore a high 
mountain in this vicinity. With much difficulty we clambered up and 
reached. the summit. From this commanding eminence we had one of the most 
singularly romantic views which imagination can paint. Northward we behold 
Lake Champlain, a prodigious expanse of unruffled water, widening and 
straitening as the banks and clifts project into its channel. This lake 
extends about one hundred miles towards Quebec, and is from one to five 
miles wide. On each side is a thick uninhabited wilderness, variegated by 
hills and dales; here the majestic oak, chestnut and pine, rear their 
lofty heads; there the diminutive shrub forms a thicket for the retreat of 
wild beasts. Looking southwest from our stand, we have a view of part of 
Lake George, emptying its waters into Lake Champlain, near Ticonderoga. 
Turning to the east, the prodigious heights called Green Mountains, 
ascending almost to the clouds, are exhibited to view, with the 
settlements in that tract of territory called New Hampshire grant. The 
ancient fortress at Crown Point is about twelve miles north of this place; 
it is by nature a very strong position, but it has been abandoned by both 
armies.

July 1st.-We are now assailed by a proclamation of a very extraordinary 
nature from General Burgoyne, enumerating a string of titles, which he has 
doubtless received from his royal master as a reward for his merit. From 
the pompous manner in which he has arrayed his titles, we are led to 
suppose that he considers them as more than a match for all the military 
force which we can bring against him. They stand thus: "By John Burgoyne, 
Esquire, Lieutenant-General of his Majesty's forces in America, Colonel of 
the Queen's regiment of Light Dragoons, - Governor of Fort William, in 
North Britain, one of the Commons of Great Britain in Parliament, and 
commanding an army and fleet employed on an expedition from Canada, &c. 
&c."

This sanguinary proclamation is to be viewed as the forerunner of his 
formidable army, and all the opposers of his authority are menaced with 
his avenging power. "I have," says the proclamation, "but to give stretch 
to the Indian forces under my direction, and they amount to thousands, to 
overtake the hardened enemies of Great Britain and America. I consider 
them the same wherever they may lurk." The British ministry, not with the 
disgraceful expedient of hiring foreign mercenaries, resort also to the 
savages of the wilderness for aid in the glorious cause of tyranny and of 
spreading the horrors of war by fire and sword throughout our country. The 
militia of New England are daily coming in to increase our strength; the 
number of our troops, and our ability to defetid the works against the 
approaching enemy, are considerations which belong to our commanding 
officers; in their breasts let the important secret remain, and in their 
superior judgment our confidence must be reposed. One fact, however, is 
notorious, that when the troops are directed to man the lines, there is 
not a sufficient number to occupy their whole extent. It appears, 
nevertheless, so far as I can learn, to be the prevalent opinion, that we 
shall be able to repel the meditated attack, and defeat the views of the 
royal commander; both officers and men are in high spirits and prepared 
for the contest.

July 2d.-The British army is now approaching; some of their savage allies 
have been seen in the vicinity of our out works, which, with the block-
house beyond the old French lines, has this day been abandoned. On the 3d 
and 4th, the enemy are making their approaches and gaining as is supposed 
some advantages. They have taken possession of Mount Hope, our batteries 
are now opened, and a cannonading has commenced. General St. Clair 
endeavors to animate the troops, and orders every man to repair to the a 
alarm-posts at morning and evening roll-call; and -to be particularly 
alert and vigilant. There seems to be a diversity of opinion whether 
General Burgoyne intends to besiege our garrison, or to attempt to possess 
himself of it by an assault on our lines.

5th.-It is with astonishment that we find the enemy have taken possession 
of an eminence called Sugar-loaf Hill, or Mount Defiance, which, from its 
height and proximity, completely overlooks and commands all our works at 
Ticonderoga and Mount Independence. This mount it is said ought long since 
to have been fortified by our army, but its extreme difficulty of access, 
and the want of a sufficient number of men, are the reasons assigned for 
its being neglected. The situation of our garrison is viewed as critical 
and alarming; a few days, it is expected, will decide our fate. We have 
reason to apprehend the most fatal effects from their battery on Sugar-
loaf Hill.

14th.-By reason of an extrabordinary and unexpected event, the course of 
my Journal has been interrupted for several days. At about twelve o'clock, 
in the night of the 5th instant, I was urgently called from sleep, and 
informed that our army was in motion, and was instantly to abandon 
Ticonderoga and Mount Independence. I could scarcely believe that my 
informant was in earnest, but the confusion and bustle soon convinced me 
that it was really true, and that the short time allowed demanded my 
utmost industry. It was enjoined on me immediately to collect the sick and 
wounded, and as much of the hospital stores as possible, and assist in 
embarking them on board the batteaux and boats at the shore. Having with 
all possible despatch completed our embarkation, at three o'clock in the 
morning of the 6th, we commenced our voyage up the South bay to 
Skeensboro', about thirty miles. Our fleet consisted of five armed gallies 
and two hundred batteaux and boats deeply laden with cannon, tents, 
provisions, invalids and women. We were accompanied by a guard of six 
hundred men, commanded by Colonel Long, of New Hampshire. The night was 
moon-light and pleasant, the sun burst forth in the morning with uncommon 
lustre, the day was fine, the water's surface serene and unruffled. The 
shore on each side exhibited a variegated view of huge rocks, caverns and 
clefts, and the whole was bounded by a thick impenetrable wilderness. My 
pen would fail in the attempt to describe a scene so enchantingly sublime. 
The occasion was peculiarly interesting, and we could but look back with 
regret, and forward with apprehension. We availed ourselves, however, of 
the means of enlivening our spirits. The drum and fife afforded us a 
favorite music; among the hospital stores we found many dozen bottles of 
choice wine and, breaking off their necks, we cheered our hearts with the 
nectareous contents. At three o'clock in the afternoon we reached our 
destined port at Skeensboro', being the head of navigation for our 
gallies. Here we were unsuspicious of danger; but, behold! Burgoyne 
himself was at our heels. In less than two hours we were struck with 
surprise and consternation by a discharge of cannon from the enemy's 
fleet, on our gallies and batteaux lying at the wharf. By uncommon efforts 
and industry they had broken through the bridge, boom and chain, which 
cost our people such immense labor, and had almost overtaken us on the 
lake, and horridly disastrous indeed would have been our fate. It was not 
long before it was perceived that a number of their troops and savages had 
landed, and were rapidly advancing towards our little party. The officers 
of our guard now attempted to rally the men and form them in battle array; 
but this was found impossible; every effort proved unavailing, and in the 
utmost panic they were seen to fly in every direction for personal safety. 
In this desperate condition, I perceived our officers scampering for their 
baggage; I ran to the batteau, seized my chest, carried it a short 
distance, took from it a few articles, and instantly followed in the train 
of our retreating party. We took the route to Fort Anne, through a narrow 
defile in the woods, and were so closely pressed by the pursuing enemy, 
that we frequently heard calls from the rear to "march on, the Indians are 
at our heels." Having marched all night we reached Fort Anne at five 
o'clock in the morning, where we found provisions for our refreshment. A 
small rivulet called Wood Creek is navigable for boats from Skeensboro' to 
Fort Anne, by which means some of our invalids and baggage made their 
escape; but all our cannon, provisions, and the bulk of our baggage, with 
several invalids, fell into the enemy's hands.

On the 7th instant, we received a small reinforcement from Fort Edward, by 
order of Major-General Schuyler, and on discovering that a detachment of 
the enemy under command of Colonel Hill had arrived in our vicinity, a 
party from our fort was ordered to attack them in their covert in the 
woods. The two parties were soon engaged in a smart skirmish, which 
continued for several hours, and resulted greatly to our honor and 
advantage; the enemy, being almost surrounded, were on the point of 
surrendering, when our ammunition being expended, and a party of Indians 
arriving and setting up the war-whoop, this being followed by three cheers 
from their friends the English, the Americans were induced to give way and 
retreat. One surgeon with a wounded captain and twelve or fifteen 
privates, were taken and brought into our fort. The surgeon informed me 
that he was in possession of books, &c. taken from my chest at 
Skeensboro', and, singular to relate, some of the British prisoners 
obtained in the same manner, and had in their pockets, a number of private 
letters which I had received from a friend in Massachusetts, and which 
were now returned to me. Fort Ann being a small picket fort of no 
importance, orders were given to set it on fire, and on the 8th we 
departed for Fort Edward situated about thirty miles southward, on the 
banks of Hudson river. General St. Clair, with his main army from 
Ticonderoga, took a circuitous route through the woods to Hubbardtown and 
Charlestown, in the New Hampshire grants, and being pursued by a strong 
detachment from Burgoyne's army, his rear guard, commanded by Colonel 
Francis, was overtaken, and on the 7th instant, a very close and severe 
engagement took place, in which bloody conflict, the brave Colonel Francis 
fell with other valuable officers, while fighting with distinguished 
gallantry. The Americans made an honorable defence, and finally a secure 
retreat. We lost in this action about three hundred in killed, wounded and 
prisoners. The enemy, according to estimation, about two hundred. On the 
12th, General St. Clair arrived here with the remains of his army, greatly 
distressed and worn down by fatigue. General Schuyler is commander at this 
post, he has a small army of continentals and militia, and is making every 
possible exertion, by taking up bridges, throwing obstructions in the 
roads and passes, by fallen trees, &c. to impede the march of Burgoyne's 
army towards Albany.

The abandonment of Ticonderoga and Mount Independence has occasioned the 
greatest surprise and alarm. No event could be more unexpected nor more 
severely felt throughout our army and country. This disaster has given to 
our cause a dark and gloomy aspect, but our affairs are not desperate, and 
our exertions ought to be in proportion to our misfortunes and our 
exigencies. The conduct of General St. Clair on this occasion has rendered 
him very unpopular, and subjected him to general censure and reproach; 
there are some, indeed, who even accuse him of treachery; but time and 
calm investigation must decide whether he can vindicate himself as a 
judicious and prudent commander. There is much reason to suppose that 
neither the strength of Burgoyne's army, nor the weakness of our garrison 
were properly considered or generally understood. It must be universally 
conceded, that when the enemy had effected their great object by hoisting 
cannon from tree to tree, till they reached the summit of Sugar-loaf Hill, 
the situation of our garrison had become perilous in the extreme. General 
Schuyler is not altogether free from public reprehension, alleging that he 
ought in duty to have been present at Ticonderoga during the critical 
period. It is predicted by some of our well-informed and respectable 
characters, that this event, apparently so calamitous, will ultimately 
prove advantageous, by drawing the British army into the heart of our 
country, and thereby place them more immediately within our power.

It may be deemed ludicrous that I should record a rumor so extravagantly 
ridiculous as the following, but it has received too much credence to be 
altogether omitted. It has been industriously reported, that Generals 
Schuyler and St. Clair acted the part of traitors to their country, and 
that they were paid for their treason by the enemy in silver balls, shot 
from Burgoyne's guns into our camp, and that they were collected by order 
of General St. Clair, and divided between him and General Schuyler.

25th.-The sick soldiers under my care at this place have been accommodated 
in barracks and tents. I have now received orders to accompany them to the 
hospital at Albany, about fifty-five miles; boats being provided, we 
embarked about forty sick and invalids, and proceeded down the North 
river, and arrived on the third day at the place of our destination.

August 3d.-The pleasing information is received here that Lieutenant-
Colonel Barton, of the Rhode Island militia, planned a bold exploit for 
the purpose of surprising and taking Major-General Prescott, the 
commanding officer of the royal army at Newport. Taking with him, in the 
night, about forty men in two boats with oars muffled, he had the address 
to elude the vigilance of the ships of war and guard boats, and having 
arrived undiscovered at the quarters of General Prescott, they were taken 
for the sentinels, and the general was not alarmed till his captors were 
at the door of his lodging chamber, which was fast closed. A negro man, 
named Prince, instantly thrust his beetle head through the pannel-door, 
and seized his victim while in bed. The general's aid-de-camp leaped from 
a window undressed, and attempted to escape, but was taken, and with the 
general brought off in safety. In repassing the water guards, General 
Prescott said to Colonel Baiton, "Sir, I did not think it possible you 
could escape the vigilance of the water guards." This is the second time 
that General Prescott has been a prisoner in our hands within two years. 
This adventure is extremely honorable to the enterprising spirit of 
Colonel Barton, and is considered as ample retaliation for the capture of 
General Lee by Colonel Harcourt. The event occasions great joy and 
exultation, as it puts in our possession an officer of equal rank with 
General Lee, by which means an exchange may be obtained. Congress resolved 
that an elegant sword should be presented to Colonel Barton for his brave 
exploit. It has been ascertained that General Howe has relaxed in his 
rigid treatment of General Lee, and conducted towards him in a manner 
suitable to his rank. The Hessian officers, on whom retaliation had been 
inflicted, are also restored to their former condition as prisoners of war.

It appears by the papers, that Congress resolved, on the 14th of June 
last, that the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, 
alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue 
field, representing a new constellation.

His Excellency General Washington, at his quarters in the Jerseys, has 
published a manifesto in answer to General Burgoyne's proclamation, from 
which I extract a few paragraphs. He observes, "The associated armies in 
America act from the noblest motives, and for the purest purposes: their 
common object is liberty. The same principles actuated the arms of Rome in 
the days of her glory, and the same object was the reward of Roman valor. 
When these sacred ideas are profaned, when the abominable mixture of 
mercenary, foreign and savage forces dare to mention the love of country, 
and the general privileges of mankind," referring to Burgoyne's 
proclamation, "the freemen of America protest against such abuse of 
language and prostitution of sentiment." In another paragraph, "We beg 
leave to observe, if the power of his Britannic Majesty's fleets and 
armies have been driven from Boston, repulsed from Charleston, cut off at 
Trenton, expelled the Jerseys, and be now, after almost three campaigns, 
commencing its operation, that this is a power we do not dread." In the 
close, "Harassed as we are by unrelenting persecution, obliged by every 
tie to repel violence by force, urged by self-preservation to exert the 
strength which Providence has given us to defend our natural rights 
against the aggressor; we appeal to the hearts of all mankind for the 
justice of our cause; its event we submit to Him who speaks the fate of 
nations, in humble confidence that as his omniscient eye taketh note even 
of the sparrow that falleth to the ground, so He will not withdraw his 
countenance from a people who humbly array themselves under his banner in 
defence of the noblest principles with which he hath adorned humanity." It 
is a matter of pride to our country that our commander-in-chief has 
exhibited a production so far surpassing in dignity of sentiment and 
justness of observation the pompous proclamation to which this is a 
rejoinder. It is no less satisfactory to reflect, that the measure 
referred to has not been productive of those glorious advantages to the 
royal cause, or the dire consequences as respects our own, which the 
sanguine spirit of its author had contemplated. Though he threatened us 
with all the outrages of war, arrayed in terrific forms, aided by savages 
eager to be let loose on their prey, yet the proclamation has been viewed 
rather as a curious model of an ostentatious display of self-importance 
than a formidable weapon calculated to awe a free people into submission.

8th.-We have just been apprised, by express from the Mohawk country, that 
Colonel St. Leger and Sir John Johnson, with a body of Britons, Canadians, 
tories and Indians, had invested Fort Schuyler, one hundred and ten miles 
from Albany;. that General Herkimer, with about eight hundred militia, was 
advancing to disperse this motley collection, and to relieve the garrison; 
but unfortunately he fell into an ambuscade and suffered a considerable 
loss. Being himself wounded in both legs, he was seen sitting on a stump, 
and courageously encouraging his men, by which they maintained their 
ground and did great execution among the enemy. Several of the Indian 
chiefs were slain by the first fire, which so disheartened the remainder, 
that they were thrown into the greatest confusion, and turning on the 
tories and other white people, a warm contention ensued between them, and 
many of the whites were killed. Colonel Gansevort, the commander of the 
fort, sent out Lieutenant-Colonel Willet with two hundred and fifty men, 
who bravely routed the Indians and tories, destroyed their provisions and 
took their kettles, blankets, muskets, tomahawks, deer-skins, &c. with 
five colors, and returned to the fort. The brave General Herkimer soon 
died of his wounds, and one hundred and sixty of his militia-men, having 
fought like lions, were killed, besides a great number wounded. St. 
Leger's victory over our militia was purchased at a dear price, more than 
seventy of his Indians were slain, and among them a large proportion of 
their most distinguished and favorite warriors, and the survivors were 
exceedingly dissatisfied. The object of the expedition was far from being 
accomplished; the commander did not, however, despair of getting 
possession of the fort; for this purpose he sent in a flag demanding a 
surrender. He greatly magnified his own strength, asserted that Burgoyne 
was at Albany; and threatened that on refusal his Indians would destroy 
all the inhabitants in the vicinity, and so soon as they could enter the 
fort every man would be sacrificed. Colonel Gansevort nobly replied in the 
negative, being determined to defend the fort at every hazard. Aware, 
however, of his perilous situation, he found means of sending to General 
Schuyler at Stillwater for assistance. General Arnold was now despatched 
with a brigade of troops to attack the besiegers; but finding their force 
greatly superior to his own, he sent back for a reinforcement of one 
thousand light troops.

An object which cannot be accomplished by force is often obtained by means 
of stratagem. Lieutenant-Colonel John Brooks, an intelligent officer from 
Massachusetts, being in advance with a small detachment, fortunately found 
one Major Butler, a noted officer among the Indians, endeavoring to 
influence the inhabitants in their favor, and he was immediately secured. 
A man also by the name of Cuyler, who was proprietor of a handsome estate 
in the vicinity, was taken up as a spy. Colonel Brooks proposed that he 
should be employed as a deceptive messenger to spread the alarm and induce 
the enemy to retreat. General Arnold soon after arrived, and approved the 
scheme of Colonel Brooks; it was accordingly agreed that Cuyler should be 
liberated and his estate secured to him on the condition that he would 
return to the enemy and make such exaggerated report of General Arnold's 
force as to alarm and put them to flight. Several friendly Indians being 
present, one of their head men advised that Cuyler's coat should be shot 
through in two or three places to add credibility to his story. Matters 
being thus adjusted, the impostor proceeded directly to the Indian camp, 
where he was well known, and informed their warriors that Major Butler was 
taken, and that himself narrowly escaped, several shot having passed 
through his coat, and that General Arnold with a vast force was advancing 
rapidly toward them. In aid of the project, a friendly Indian followed, 
and arrived about an hour after with a confirmation of Cuyler's report. 
This stratagem was successful: the Indians instantly determined to quit 
their ground, and make their escape, nor was it in the power of St. Leger 
and Sir John, with all their art of persuasion, to prevent it. When St. 
Leger remonstrated with them, the reply of the chiefs was, "When we 
marched down, you told us there would be no fighting for us Indians; we 
might go down and smoke our pipes; but now a number of our warriors have 
been killed, and you mean to sacrifice us." The consequence was, that St. 
Leger, finding himself deserted by his Indians, to the number of seven or 
eight hundred, deemed his situation so hazardous that he decamped in the 
greatest hurry and confusion, leaving his tents with most of his artillery 
and stores in the field. General Arnold with his detachment was now at 
liberty to return to the main army at Stillwater; and thus have we clipped 
the right wing of General Burgoyne. In the evening, while on their 
retreat, St. Leger and Sir John got into a warm altercation, criminating 
each other for the ill success of the expedition. Two sachems, observing 
this, resolved to have a laugh at their expense. In their front was a bog 
of clay and mud; they directed a young warrior to loiter in the rear, and 
then, of a sudden, run as if alarmed, calling out, They are coming, they 
are coming! On hearing this, the two commanders in a fright took to their 
heels, rushing into the bog, frequently falling and sticking in the mud, 
and the men threw away their packs and hurried off. This and other jokes 
were several times repeated during the night for many miles.

30th.-The city of Albany is situated on the west bank of the Hudson, or 
North river, one hundred and sixty miles north from New York, and the 
river admits of sloop navigation between these two cities. It consists of 
about three hundred houses, chiefly in the gothic style, the gable ends to 
the street. There is an ancient Dutch church of stone, a Congregational 
church, and a decent edifice called City Hall, which accommodates 
occasionally their general assembly and courts of justice. The hospital 
was erected during the last French war; it is situated on an eminence 
overlooking the city. It is two stories high, having a wing at each end 
and a piazza in front above and below. It contains forty wards, capable of 
accommodating five hundred patients, besides the rooms appropriated to the 
use of surgeons and other officers., stores, &c.

Our army under General Schuyler have left their unimportant station at 
Fort Edward, and having made a stand for a few days at Saratoga, they fell 
back to Stillwater, twenty-five miles above Albany, where they have taken 
their station, and are daily receiving reinforcements of militia and some 
continental troops. On the retreat of our army from Fort Edward, Major 
Hull commanded the rear guard, and being two miles in the rear, was 
attacked by a large body of the enemy, and after a severe contest, in 
which he lost thirty or forty of his men, he was compelled to retreat. He 
received the thanks of General Schuyler for his brave and judicious 
conduct. General Burgoyne, we learn, is extremely embarrassed, and his 
march greatly impeded by the obstructions in the roads effected by order 
of Gen. Schuyler; he has at length, however, surmounted numerous 
difficulties, and reached the vicinity of Saratoga. Finding himself in 
want of provisions, horses to mount his cavalry, and teams to transport 
his stores and baggage, he resorted to one of the most chimerical and 
romantic projects that could enter the imagination of man. Being informed 
that a large quantity of stores, corn, cattle, &c., were deposited at 
Bennington, in the New Hampshire grants, he planned an expedition for the 
purpose of possessing himself of this treasure. Presuming, probably, that 
his late success and his manifesto had produced such wonderful effects, 
that no more opposition would be made to his progress in the country, he 
despatched Col. Baum, a German officer, with five hundred Hessians and 
tories and one hundred Indians with two field-pieces. The colonel was 
furnished with the following curious instructions, which fell into the 
hands of General Stark:

"To proceed through the New Hampshire grants, cross the mountains, scour 
the country, with Peter's corps (tories) and the Indians, from Rockingham 
to Otter creek, to get horses, carriages, and cattle, and mount Reidesel's 
regiment of dragoons, to go down Connecticut river as far as 
Brattleborough, and return by the great road to Albany, there to meet 
General Burgoyne, to endeavor to make the country believe it was the 
advanced body of the General's army who was to cross Connecticut river and 
proceed to Boston; and that at Springfield they were to be joined by the 
troops from Rhode Island. All officers, civil and military, acting under 
the Congress, were to be made prisoners. To tax the towns where they 
halted, with such articles as they wanted, and take hostages for the 
performance, &c. You are to bring all horses fit to mount the dragoons or 
to serve as battalion horses for the troops, with as many saddles and 
bridles as can be found. The number of horses requisite besides those for 
the dragoons ought to be thirteen hundred, if you can bring more, so much 
the better. The horses must be tied in strings of ten each, in order that 
one man may lead ten horses."

This redoubtable commander surely must be one of the happiest men of the 
age, to imagine that such prodigious achievements were at his command: 
that such invaluable resources were within his grasp. But, alas! the 
wisest of men are liable to disappointment in their sanguine calculations, 
and to have their favorite projects frustrated by the casualties of war. 
This is remarkably verified in the present instance. Preceded by the 
manifesto, and having his commission in his pocket, Colonel Baum marched, 
on the 14th of August, at the head of his command, to execute the orders 
of his general; he proceeded about twelve or thirteen miles, where he 
halted, and secured himself by intrenchments. It was a providental 
circumstance that General Stark was at or near Bennington, with about 
eight hundred New England militia, part of whom being from the New 
Hampshire grants, are called Green Mountain Boys. He advanced towards the 
enemy to reconnoitre their position, and some skirmishing ensued, in which 
thirty of them with two Indian chiefs were killed and wounded, with little 
loss on our side. Colonel Baum, alarmed at his situation, despatched a 
messenger to Burgoyne for a reinforcement. The 15th being a very rainy 
day, there was only some skirmishing in small parties. On the 16th, 
General Stark, assisted by Colonel Warner, matured his arrangements for 
battle; he divided his troops into three divisions, and ordered Colonel 
Nichols, with two hundred and fifty men, to gain the rear of the left 
wing, of the enemy, and Colonel Hendrick the rear of their right wing, 
with three hundred men, while he attacked their front. The Indians, 
alarmed, at the appearance of being surrounded, endeavored to make their 
escape in a single file between the two parties, with their horrid yells 
and jingling of cowbells. The flanking parties approaching each other in 
their rear, and General Stark making a bold and furious onset in front, a 
general and close conflict ensued, and continued with more or less 
severity for about two hours. Though Colonel Baum had nearly twice their 
numbers, and was defended by breastworks, the force opposed to them proved 
irresistible, forcing their breastworks at the muzzles of their guns, and 
obliging them to ground their arms and surrender at discretion, so that 
the victory on our part was complete. We took two pieces of brass cannon, 
and a number of prisoners, with baggage, &c. This was hardly accomplished, 
when Colonel Breyman, with one thousand German troops, arrived with two 
field-pieces, to reinforce Colonel Baum, who had just been defeated. 
General Stark's troops were now scattered, some attending the wounded, 
some guarding the prisoners, and still more in pursuit of plunder; and all 
exhausted by extreme hunger and fatigue. At this critical moment, Colonel 
Warner's regiment arrived, and the other troops being rallied, the whole 
were ordered to advance. A field-piece had been taken from Baum in the 
forenoon, and Stark ordered it to be drawn to the scene of action, but his 
men having never seen a cannon, knew not how to load it; the general 
dismounted, and taught them by loading it himself. An action soon 
commenced, and proved warm and desperate, in which both sides displayed 
the most daring bravery, till night approached, when the enemy yielded a 
second time in one day to their Yankee conquerors. The German troops being 
totally routed, availed themselves of the darkness of night to effect 
their retreat. The whole number of killed, wounded and prisoners, was nine 
hundred and thirty-four, including one hundred and fifty-seven tories; of 
this number, six hundred and fifty-four are prisoners. Colonel Baum 
received a mortal wound, of which he soon after died. Besides the above, 
one thousand stand of arms, four brass field-pieces, two hundred and fifty 
dragoon swords, eight loads of baggage, and twenty horses fell into our 
hands. The loss on our side is not more than one hundred in the whole. The 
officers and men engaged in this splendid enterprise merit all the praise 
which a grateful country can bestow; they fought disciplined troops 
completely accoutred, while they wielded their ordinary firelocks with 
scarce a bayonet, and at first without cannon. The consequences must be 
most auspicious as respects our affairs in the northern department. 
Burgoyne must feel the clipping of another wing, and it must diminish his 
confidence in his successful career. The event will also be productive of 
the happiest effects on the spirits of our militia, by increasing their 
confidence in their own prowess. The following anecdote deserves to be 
noticed for the honor of the person who is the subject of it, though his 
name has not been ascertained. A venerable old man had five sons in the 
field of battle near Bennington, and being told that be had been 
unfortunate in one of his sons, replied, "What! has he misbehaved? did he 
desert his post, or shrink from the charge?" "No, sir," says the 
informant, "worse than that: he is among the slain; he fell contending 
mightily in the cause." "Then I am satisfied," replied the good old man; 
"bring him in, and lay him before me, that I may behold and survey the 
darling of my soul." On which the corpse was brought in and laid before 
him. He then called for a bowl of water and a napkin, and with his own 
bands washed the gore and dirt from his son's corpse, and wiped his gaping 
wounds, with a complacency, as he himself expressed it, which before he 
had never felt or experienced.

Major-General Horatio Gates has superseded General Schuyler as commander-
in-chief of the northern department, and has passed through this city on 
his way to Stillwater. This appointment will be very satisfactory to our 
army, as General Gates has the respect and confidence of the New England 
troops.

September 2d.-General Gates has issued a proclamation to counteract any 
influence which Burgoyne's sanguinary manifesto might have produced, 
interdicting all communication with the royal army, and endeavoring to 
calm the fears of the inhabitants, by promising them all the protection in 
his power. Burgoyne's manifesto, however, denouncing fire and sword, 
instead of alarming into submission, excites universal indignation and 
contempt; instead of conciliating, and increasing the number of his 
friends, serves only to exasperate and augment our means of resistance and 
opposition to his views. It was not long indeed before some innocent 
persons were made victims of savage barbarity, by means of the tomahawk 
and scalping-knife, in the bands of the barbarians under his command. 
Among the first of these victims, was Miss Jenny McCrea, who was murdered 
in a manner extremely shocking to the feelings of humanity. The father of 
Miss McCrea was friendly towards the royalists, and the young lady was 
engaged to marry a refugee officer in Burgoyne's army, by the name of 
Jones, and waited his arrival in order to have the marriage consummated. 
When our army retreated from Fort Edward, Miss McCrea had the indiscretion 
to remain behind, probably with the expectation of meeting her lover. The 
Indians, however, soon made her their prisoner, and on their return 
towards Burgoyne's camp, a quarrel arose to decide who should hold 
possession of the fair prize. During the controversy, one of the monsters 
struck his tomahawk into her skull, and immediately stripped off her scalp.

General Gates complains to General Burgoyne of this and other outrages in 
the following words: "A young lady, Miss McCrea, lovely to the sight, of 
virtuous character and amiable disposition, engaged to be married to an 
officer in your army, was, with other women and children, taken out of a 
house near Fort Edward, carried into the woods, and there scalped and 
mangled in a most shocking manner. Two parents with their six children, 
were all treated with the same inhumanity, while quietly residing in their 
own happy and peaceful dwellings. The miserable fate of Miss McCrea was 
peculiarly aggravated by her being dressed to receive her promised 
husband - but met her murderer, employed by you. Upwards of one hundred 
men, women and children, have perished by the hands of ruffians, to whom 
it is asserted you have paid the price of blood." This appears since to be 
rather an exaggerated charge. In General Burgoyne's reply, be says, "The 
fact was no premeditated barbarity: on the contrary, two chiefs who had 
brought Miss McCrea off, for the purpose of security, not of violence to 
her person, disputed which should be her guard, and in a fit of savage 
passion, in the one from whose hands she was snatched, the unhappy woman 
became the victim." He expressed sorrow and regret for the tragic scenes, 
and further stated that he obliged the Indians to give up the murderer 
into his hands, and he certainly should have suffered an ignominious 
death, had he not been convinced that a pardon on his terms would be more 
efficacious than an execution, to prevent further mischief. That he paid 
for scalps, he denies; but the Indians were to receive compensation for 
prisoners. This cruel conduct of the royalists is contemplated with horror 
and detestation by all ranks of people, except wit their friends and 
adherents. It is impossible not to detest that cause and that army which 
accepts the aid of savage auxiliaries, and encourages them in inhuman 
slaughter and bloodshed. This measure was certainly countenanced and 
recommended by his majesty and his ministers, and General Burgoyne 
acknowledges that he allowed the Indians to take the scalps of the dead. 
It must be most painful for the impartial historian to record, and it will 
require the strongest faith of the reader in future ages to credit the 
disgraceful story that Britons, who pride themselves on their civility and 
humanity, employed the wild savages of the wilderness in a war against a 
people united to them by the ties of consanguinity. That age, and the 
helpless invalid, women, and children at the breast, are all alike 
subjected to the merciless fury of barbarians. That British generals 
should be so regardless of the dignity of their station, and the voice of 
humanity, as to receive from the hands of these ferocious wretches the 
scalps torn from the skulls of innocent persons!

13th.-There is a constant intercourse kept up between this city and our 
army near Stillwater, by which we are regularly apprised of daily 
occurrences. It is now ascertained that Burgoyne has crossed the Hudson, 
and encamped at Saratoga, about thirty-six miles above Albany.

17th.-General Gates, reposing full confidence in the courage and strength 
of his army, seems to have determined to march and confront his formidable 
enemy, and endeavor to force him and his troops back to Canada, which, in 
his orders, issued to inspire his troops with ardor, he says, "has been 
successfully begun by General Stark and Colonel Warner at the eastward; 
and by General Herkimer and Colonel Gansevort at the westward; and cannot, 
with the blessing of Heaven, fail to be equally prosperous in the hands of 
the generals and soldiers appointed to face the enemy's main army at the 
northward. If the murder of aged parents, with their innocent children; if 
mangling the blooming virgin, and inoffensive youth, are inducements to 
revenge - if the righteous cause of freedom, and the happiness of 
posterity, are motives to stimulate to conquer their mercenary and 
merciless foes, the time is now come, when they are called on by their 
country, by their general, and by every thing divine and human, to 
vanquish the foe."

18th and 19th.-Our army is advancing towards the enemy in three columns, 
under Generals Lincoln and Arnold, General Gates in the centre. A terrible 
conflict is daily expected; both parties appear to be determined to 
commence the work of destruction.

20th.-By express arrived in this city last night, it is announced that the 
two armies fought in the field, yesterday, a very sanguinary battle, the 
particulars of which are not fully understood; but it is reported that 
from the closeness and obstinacy of the combat, the carnage on both sides 
was prodigious. It is with inexpressible satisfaction that we learn our 
troops behaved with that undaunted bravery which has secured to them the 
victory, and were it not for the darkness of the evening when the battle 
closed, it would have been more complete.

21st and 22d.-A considerable number of officers and soldiers who were 
wounded in the late battle, have been brought here to be accommodated in 
our hospital, or in private houses in this city. Several of these 
unfortunate but brave men have received wounds of a very formidable and 
dangerous nature, and many of them must be subjected to capital operations.

23d.-From the officers who were engaged in the battle, I have obtained the 
following particulars. Our army, under the command of General Gates, was 
stationed in the vicinity of Stillwater, when they advanced towards the 
enemy and offered them battle, Colonel Morgan's regiment of riflemen, and 
Major Dearborn's light infantry, being in front, received the first fire 
about noon, on the 19th instant. General Burgoyne was at the head of his 
army, and Generals Phillips, Reidesel and Frazer, with their respective 
commands, were actively engaged. At about three o'clock, both armies being 
formed in a line of battle, the action became general, and the combatants 
on both sides evinced that ardor and gallantry which shows a determination 
to conquer or die. The firing for about three hours was incessant, with 
continued tremendous roar and blaze, filling the field with carnage and 
death. Few battles have been more obstinate and unyielding - at one point 
the British are overpowered; but being reinforced, the Americans are 
baffled; these, being supported and renewing their efforts, regain their 
advantages; the same ground is occupied alternately, the dead and wounded 
of both parties are mingled together. The British resort repeatedly to 
their bayonets without effect - the Americans resist and foil their 
attempts. Captain Jones, of the British artillery, had the command of four 
pieces of cannon, which he conducted with great skill and valor till he 
fell, and thirty-six out of forty-eight of his artillery men were killed 
or wounded; his cannon were repeatedly taken and retaken, but finally 
remained with the enemy for the want of horses to bring them off. During 
the engagement, a number of our soldiers placed themselves in the boughs 
of high trees, in the rear and flanks, and took every opportunity of 
destroying the British officers by single shot; in one instance, General 
Burgoyne was the object, but the aid-de-camp of General Phillips received 
the ball through his arm, while delivering a message to Burgoyne; the 
mistake, it is said, was occasioned by having his saddle furnished with 
rich lace, and was supposed by the marksman to be the British commander. 
In the dusk of evening the battle terminated, the British in one quarter 
silently retreating, the Americans in another give way, and quit the long-
contested field. Lieutenant-Colonel Brooks, with the eighth Massachusetts 
regiment, remained in the field till about eleven o'clock, and was the 
last who retired. Major Hull commanded a detachment of three hundred men, 
who fought with such signal ardor, that more than half of them were killed 
or wounded. The whole number of Americans engaged in this action, was 
about two thousand five hundred; the remainder of the army, from its 
unfavorable situation, took little or no part in the action. The British 
have suffered a loss, as is supposed, of more than five hundred in killed, 
wounded and prisoners. On the side of the Americans, sixty-four were 
killed, two hundred and seventeen wounded, and thirty-eight missing. Among 
the killed, are Colonels Adams and Colburn, two valuable officers, much 
regretted. The victory on this important occasion is claimed by the enemy, 
but the advantages are most decidedly on the side of the Americans; they 
were the assailants - they held their ground during the day, and at the 
close retired to their encampment without being pursued. The royal army 
lay all the ensuing night on their arms at some distance from the field of 
battle.

24th.-General Lincoln having the command of a body of New England militia, 
detached Colonel Brown with five hundred men to the landing at Lake 
George, about three miles from Ticonderoga, and more than forty miles in 
the rear of the British army. Two other detachments were also sent towards 
Mount Independence, Fort Anne and Fort Edward. These expeditions being 
faithfully executed, were attended with complete success. Colonel Brown 
had the address to surprise all the out-posts in the vicinity of 
Ticonderoga, and took immediate possession of Mount Defiance, Mount Hope, 
and a block-house, with two hundred batteaux, an armed sloop, and several 
gunboats, about three hundred prisoners, with their small arms, and 
released one hundred American prisoners from their confinement.

October 1st.-The situation of the royal army under Burgoyne, is now 
considered extremely precarious; his march to Albany is deemed absolutely 
impracticable, and a retreat to Canada must be attended with 
insurmountable difficulties and dangers. It is well understood, that he 
calculates on the cooperation of Sir Henry Clinton, by sending from New 
York a force up the North river to endeavor to effect a passage to Albany, 
or at least to occasion such alarm, as to draw off a part of General 
Gates' army from before him. Messengers or persons in the character of 
spies, are frequently suspected of passing from one British commander to 
the other. A man, by name Nathan Palmer, was, a few days since, seized in 
General Putnam's camp, at Peekskill, under suspicious circumstances, and 
on trial was found to be a lieutenant in the tory new levies, and he was 
executed as a spy (For General Putnam's letter to Governor Tryon, 
respecting Palmer, see life of Putnam in the Appendix.)

4th.-By intelligence from camp, it appears that Burgoyne has thrown up a 
line of intrenchments in front of his camp, and is making every possible 
effort to strengthen his position and prepare for another conflict. The 
Canadians and his savage allies being greatly dissatisfied and 
discouraged, have deserted his standard since the last battle. The 
advantages obtained over the enemy on this occasion, excites the greatest 
exultation and rejoicing throughout our army and country. It is indeed a 
remarkable fact which must animate the heart of every friend to the cause 
of America, that our troops, so little accustomed to encounter the prowess 
of European veterans, and the peculiar warfare of the savages, should face 
these enemies with such undaunted courage and intrepidity. Sanguine hopes 
are now entertained that we shall, by the help of Providence, be finally 
enabled to destroy or capture the whole British army. Our troops are 
panting for another opportunity of displaying their valor, and another 
dreadful conflict is daily expected; alternate hopes and fears continually 
agitate our minds, and create the greatest anxiety and solicitude. What 
can excite ideas more noble and sublime, than impending military events, 
on which depend the destiny of a nation?

6th.-An express passed through this city, on his way to General Gates' 
head-quarters, with the information that a detachment of troops from New 
York, supposed to be about four thousand, under-command of Sir Henry 
Clinton and General Vaughan, have undertaken an expedition up the North 
river. Their object undoubtedly is, to possess themselves of Fort 
Montgomery and Fort Clinton, in the highlands, and to make a diversion in 
favor of Burgoyne. General Putnam was stationed at Peekskill with a small 
force, but being totally unable to cope with the enemy, has retired to 
some distance. Should this expedition be crowned with success, it will be 
in the power of Sir Henry Clinton to convey his army to this city, and 
even to our camp, at Stillwater, which will place our army between two 
fires. Should General Gates detach a part of his troops to oppose the 
march of General Clinton, it will liberate Burgoyne, and he would probably 
force his way to this city. In either event, the consequences must be 
exceedingly disastrous to our country. We tremble with apprehensions. 
8th.-The anticipated important intelligence has just reached us, that a 
most severe engagement took place yesterday, between the two armies, at a 
place between Stillwater and Saratoga called Bemis' Heights. It is 
supposed to be the hardest fought battle, and the most honorable to our 
army, of any since the commencement of hostilities. The enemy was 
completely repulsed in every quarter, and his defeat was attended with 
irreparable loss of officers, men, artillery, tents and baggage. Our 
officers and men acquired the highest honor; they fought like heroes, and 
their loss is very inconsiderable. General Arnold has received a wound in 
his leg. I am impatient to receive the particular details of this capital 
event.

9th and 10th.-I am fortunate enough to obtain from our officers, a 
particular account of the glorious event of the 7th instant. The advanced 
parties of the two armies came into contact, about three o'clock on 
Tuesday afternoon, and immediately displayed their hostile attitude. The 
Americans soon approached the royal army, and each party in defiance 
awaited the deadly blow. The gallant Colonel Morgan, at the head of his 
famous rifle corps, and Major Dearborn, leading a detachment of infantry, 
commenced the action, and rushed courageously on the British grenadiers, 
commanded by Major Ackland; and the furious attack was most firmly 
resisted. In all parts of the field, the conflict became extremely arduous 
and obstinate; an unconquerable spirit on each side disdaining to yield 
the palm of victory. Death appeared to have lost his terrors; breaches in 
the ranks were no sooner made than supplied by fresh combatants awaiting a 
similar fate. At length the Americans press forward with renewed strength 
and ardor, and compel the whole British line, commanded by Burgoyne 
himself, to yield to their deadly fire, and they retreat in disorder. The 
German troops remain firmly posted at their lines; these were now boldly 
assaulted by Brigadier-General Learned and Lieutenant-Colonel Brooks, at 
the head of their respective commands, with such intrepidity, that the 
works were carried, and their brave commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Breyman, 
was slain. The Germans were pursued to their encampment, which, with all 
the equipage of the brigade, fell into our hands. Colonel Cilley, of 
General Poor's brigade, having acquitted himself honorably, was seen 
astride on a brass field-piece, exulting in the capture. Major Hull, of 
the Massachusetts line, was among those who so bravely stormed the enemy's 
intrenchment and acted a conspicuous part. General Arnold, in consequence 
of a serious misunderstanding with General Gates, was not vested with any 
command, by which he was exceedingly chagrined and irritated. He entered 
the field, however, and his conduct was marked with intemperate rashness; 
flourishing his sword and animating the troops, he struck an officer on 
the head without cause, and gave him a considerable wound. He exposed 
himself to every danger, and with a small party of riflemen, rushed into 
the rear of the enemy, where he received a ball which fractured his leg, 
and his horse was killed under him. Nightfall put a stop to our brilliant 
career, though the victory was most decisive, and it is with pride and 
exultation that we recount the triumph of American bravery. Besides 
Lieutenant-Colonel Breyman slain, General Frazer, one of the most valuable 
officers in the British service, was mortally wounded, and survived but a 
few hours.

The death of General Frazer, from Professor Silliman's Travels. "In the 
action of 7th October, 1777, Frazer was the soul of the British army, and 
was just changing the disposition of a part of the troops to repel a 
strong impression which the Americans had made, and were still making, on 
the British right, when Morgan called together two or three of his best 
marksmen, and pointing to Frazer, said, 'Do you see that gallant 
officer? - that is General Frazer - I respect and honor him; but it is 
necessary he should die.' This was enough. Frazer immediately received his 
mortal wound, and was carried off the field." See the Appendix.

Sir Francis Clark, aid-de-camp to General Burgoyne, was brought into our 
camp with a mortal wound, and Major Ackland, who commanded the British 
grenadiers, was wounded through both legs, and is our prisoner. Several 
other officers and about two hundred privates are prisoners in our hands, 
with nine pieces of cannon and a considerable supply of ammunition, which 
was much wanted for our troops. The loss on our side is supposed not to 
exceed thirty killed and one hundred wounded, in obtaining this signal 
victory.

11th.-The night after the battle, Burgoyne silently moved from his 
position, and on the 8th there was considerable skirmishing through the 
day, with some loss on both sides. We have to lament the misfortune of 
Major-General Lincoln, who, while reconnoitring the enemy, advanced so 
near, that a whole volley of musketry was discharged at him, and he 
received a dangerous wound in his leg. It is reported, that, the day after 
the battle, upwards of one hundred of the enemy's dead were found unburied 
in the field, General Gates having detached a body of troops, to get into 
the rear of the British army, Burgoyne took the alarm, and resolved to 
retreat, immediately to Saratoga; accordingly in, the night of the 9th 
instant, he silently moved off, leaving in our possession his hospital, 
containing three hundred sick and wounded, with medicinal stores, and two 
hundred barrels of flour, &c. It is a fact, both unaccountable and 
disgraceful, that on their retreat they committed the most wanton 
devastations, burning and destroying almost every house within their 
reach; the elegant and valuable country seat of General Schuyler, near 
Saratoga, did not escape their fury. The situation of the royal army is 
now extremely deplorable, and there is scarcely a possibility of their 
final escape. General Gates has so arranged his forces as to cut off their 
retreat, and is endeavoring to surround them on every quarter. May the 
Almighty Ruler grant that our efforts may be crowned with still more 
glorious success!

12th,-The wounded officers and soldiers of our army, and those of the 
enemy who have fallen into our hands, are crowding into our hospital, and 
require our constant attention. The last night I watched with the 
celebrated General Arnold, whose leg was badly fractured by a musket-ball 
while in the engagement with the enemy on the 7th instant. He is very 
peevish, and impatient under his misfortunes, but I devoted all hour in 
writing a letter to a friend in Boston, detailing the particulars of the 
late battle.

In the severe battle of the 7th, General Burgoyne himself, it is now 
ascertained, had a hair breadth escape, having one bullet pass through his 
hat and another tore his waistcoat.

The following anecdote shows the imminent danger to which a part of 
General Gates' army was at one time exposed. General Gates had received 
what he supposed to be certain intelligence that the main body of 
Burgoyne's army had marched off for Fort Edward, and that a rear guard 
only was left in the camp, who after a while were to push off as fast as 
possible, leaving the heavy baggage behind. On this it was concluded to 
advance and attack the camp in half an hour. General Nixon's being the 
eldest brigade, crossed the Saratoga Creek first: unknown to the 
Americans, Burgoyne had a line formed behind a parcel of brushwood to 
support the post of artillery where the attack was to be made. General 
Glover with his brigade was on the point of following Nixon. Just as he 
entered the water, he saw a British soldier crossing, whom he called and 
examined. This soldier was a deserter, and communicated the very important 
fact, that the whole British army were in their encampment. Nixon was 
immediately stopped, and the intelligence conveyed to Gates, who 
countermanded his orders for the assault, and called back his troops, not 
without sustaining some loss from the British artillery. - Gordon and 
Marshal.

N.B. General Wilkinson, who acted as General Gates' adjutant-general, 
asserts in his memoirs, that he first discovered the British at their 
post, through a thick fog while his horse halted to drink in fording the 
creek, and that he instantly arrested the march of our troops, and thereby 
saved them from destruction. He makes no mention of the deserter. It is 
known that Burgoyne has frequently expressed his extreme disappointment 
that he was baffled in this stratagem; and Americans ought never to forget 
the remarkable Providential escape.

We have the most flattering accounts from camp. Our army is now posted 
within musket-shot of the enemy at Saratoga, and are forming a circle 
round them. Some skirmishing takes place every day, in which we have taken 
one hundred and twenty prisoners, and have received one hundred and sixty 
deserters. A party of our men have taken fifty batteaux loaded with 
provisions, stores, and medicines, among which are one thousand barrels of 
pork and beef. This must be to the enemy an irreparable loss, and a blow 
which must hasten the destruction or surrender of their whole army.

14th,-We have now a confirmation of the intelligence that Sir Henry 
Clinton and General Vaughan have pushed up the North river, and made a 
successful attack on our forts at the highlands. Fort Montgomery and Fort 
Clinton are near to each other, on the western bank of the Hudson. They 
have been considered of great importance as defensive posts, against the 
passage of the enemy up the river. In addition to these forts, a strong 
boom and an iron chain of immense size were stretched across the river, 
and a frigate and two gallies were stationed above them. By these means it 
was always supposed that the position was invulnerable, provided a proper 
number of troops were posted in the forts; but it unfortunately happened 
that most of the continental troops were necessarily called off to join 
General Gates' army. The forts were defended by Governor George Clinton 
and his brother, General James Clinton, of New York, having about six 
hundred militia-men - a force greatly inadequate to the defence of the 
works. The enemy came up the river, landed, and appeared unexpectedly, and 
demanded a surrender of the forts, which being resolutely refused, were 
taken by assault, though not without a firm and brave resistance. General 
James Clinton received a bayonet wound in his thigh, but he and the 
governor with a part of the garrison made their escape, leaving about two 
hundred and fifty men killed, wounded and prisoners. The enemy suffered 
severe loss of three field-officers killed, and their dead and wounded is 
estimated at about three hundred. General Putnam, who commanded at 
Peekskill in the vicinity, having a small force only to guard the deposit 
of stores, was obliged to retire, and the barracks, stores and provisions, 
to a very considerable amount, fell into the hands of the enemy and were 
destroyed. With wanton cruelty they set fire to the houses and buildings 
of every description, and spread ruin and devastation to the extent of 
their power. To consummate their destructive scheme, General Vaughan 
destroyed by conflagration the beautiful town of Esopus, with the church, 
and every other building it contained. Thus we experience the horrid 
effects of malice and revenge; where they cannot conquer, they wantonly 
exterminate and destroy. They are well apprised of the disastrous and 
desperate situation of their boastful General Burgoyne, and if they dare 
not march to his relief, they can cowardly retaliate by conflagration with 
impunity. It is the prevalent opinion here, that by taking advantage of 
wind and tide, it is in the power of Sir Henry Clinton to convey his
forces to this city within the space of five or six hours, and having 
arrived here, a march of about twenty miles will carry him without 
opposition to Stillwater, which must involve General Gates in 
inexpressible embarrassment and difficulty, by placing him between two 
armies, and thereby extricating Burgoyne from his perilous situation. We 
have been tremblingly alive to this menacing prospect, but our tears are 
in a measure allayed by the following singular incident. After the capture 
of Fort Montgomery, Sir Henry Clinton despatched a messenger, by the name 
of Daniel Taylor, to Burgoyne with the intelligence; fortunately he was 
taken on his way as a spy, and finding himself in danger, he was seen to 
turn aside and take something from his pocket and swallow it. General 
George Clinton, into whose hands he had fallen, ordered a severe dose of 
emetic tartar to be administered; this produced the happiest effect as 
respects the prescriber; but it proved fatal to the patient. He discharged 
a small silver bullet, which, being unscrewed, was found to inclose a 
letter from Sir Henry Clinton to Burgoyne. "Out of thine own mouth thou 
shalt be condemned." The spy was tried, convicted and executed. The 
following is an exact copy of the letter inclosed:

Fort Montgomery, October 8th, 1777.
Nous voici - and nothing between us but Gates. I sincerely hope this 
little success of ours may facilitate your operations. In answer to your 
letter of the 28th of September by C. C. I shall only say, I cannot 
presume to order, or even advise, for reasons obvious. I heartily wish you 
success. Faithfully yours,
H. CLINTON.
To General Burgoyne.

14th.-An express from camp. Burgoyne has this day made proposals to 
General Gates to enter into a treaty for the surrrender of his army. He 
desires a cessation of arms till the preliminary terms can be settled, to 
which General Gates has assented. The glorious event is about to be 
consummated.

15th and 16th.-Burgoyne's message to General Gates by the hands of Major 
Kingston is as follows:

"October 14th, 1777.
"After having fought you twice, Lieutenant-General Burgoyne has waited 
some days, in his present position, determined to try a third conflict 
against any force you could bring to attack him.
"He is apprised of the superiority of your numbers, and the disposition of 
your troops to impede his supplies and render his retreat a scene of 
carnage on both sides. In this situation he is impelled by humanity, and 
thinks himself justified by established principles and precedents of state 
and of war, to spare the lives of brave men on honorable terms: should 
Major-General Gates be inclined to treat on this idea, General Burgoyne 
would propose a cessation of arms during the time necessary to communicate 
the preliminary terms, by which, in any extremity, he and his army mean to 
abide."

A convention was in consequence opened, and two days were spent in a 
discussion and interchange of articles between the two commanders. It was 
agreed that the articles should be mutually signed and exchanged to-morrow 
morning the 17th instant, at nine o'clock; and the troops under Lieutenant-
General Burgoyne are to march out of their intrenchments at three o'clock 
in the afternoon.

The substance of the treaty is, that the troops under the command of 
General Burgoyne shall march out of their camp with the honors of war and 
their field-artillery, to the place assigned, where their arms and 
artillery shall be piled at the command of their own officers.

That the troops be allowed to return to England, on condition that they 
shall not serve again in America during the present war. That the officers 
be allowed to wear their side-arms, and be treated according to their 
rank. That the European troops march immediately for Boston, to be in 
readiness to embark when transports shall be sent for them, and that the 
Canadians be permitted to return home immediately, on the sole condition 
of their not arming again against the United States.

18th.-At the appointed hour yesterday morning the Americans marched into 
the lines of the British to the tune of Yankee Doodle, where they 
continued till the royal army had marched to the place appointed and 
deposited their arms according to the treaty.

It is a circumstance characteristic of the amiable and benevolent 
disposition of General Gates, that, unwilling to aggravate the painful 
feelings of the royal troops, he would not permit the American soldiery to 
witness the degrading act of piling their arms. This instance of delicacy 
and politeness, at the moment of triumph, towards an enemy who had 
committed the most unprecedented outrages, is a mark of true magnanimity, 
and deserves the highest praise, though it deprives our army of the 
satisfaction to which they are justly entitled.

The preliminaries having been acceded to by the two commanders, Lieutenant-
Colonel Wilkinson, deputy adjutant-general, and Brigadier-General Whipple, 
of the militia, on our part, and Lieutenant-Colonel Sutherland, Major 
Kingston, and Captain Craig, on the part of the British, were appointed to 
stipulate and arrange the particular articles of capitulation. So very 
tenacious were the British of the trivial points of military honor, that, 
after they had signed the "treaty of capitulation," as it was termed, they 
required that the term should be altered to "treaty of convention," in 
which they were indulged by General Gates, as being of little consequence 
on our part. During the pending negotiation, several hundred of the New 
York militia, whose term of service had expired, marched off the ground 
without permission from General Gates; and the same night Burgoyne 
received intelligence by a spy that Sir H. Clinton, having taken Fort 
Montgomery, would attempt to force his way to Albany. Though the articles 
of convention were fully adjusted, signed and exchanged, by those 
appointed for the purpose, and the hour stipulated by the parties for 
Burgoyne to affix his signature, he addressed a note to General Gates, 
purporting that he should recede from the treaty, on the ground that ,a 
part of the American force bad been detached from the army during the 
negotiation; and with a bold effrontery, required that he might be 
permitted to send two officers to our camp to ascertain the fact. This 
dishonorable conduct, as may be supposed, raised the ire of our spirited 
commander, who sent Lieutenant-Colonel Wilkinson to have a personal 
interview with Burgoyne, and to insist that hostilities should recommence, 
if the treaty was not immediately ratified. This, after much hesitation on 
the part of Burgoyne and his officers, produced the desired effect. His 
contemplated alternative was, to abandon his camp, artillery, heavy 
baggage and sick; and, by a desperate effort in the night, to force his 
way through our army, and make a rapid march to Albany with the hope of 
meeting General Sir H. Clinton. It is considered singular that it was not 
demanded of the captured general to deliver up his military chest, colors, 
and soldiers' accoutrements; but the success of General Clinton in 
reducing Fort Montgomery, and the serious apprehensions of General Gates 
that he would force his way to Albany, and the desire of the latter to 
spare the effusion of blood, are the substantial causes which procured for 
Burgoyne the favorable terms which he enjoys. It is satisfactory to learn 
that the British officers, in general, candidly acknowledged that the 
American troops conducted on all occasions with the greatest bravery, and 
when, after their surrender, they visited and took a view of our camp, 
expressed much surprise at the military order and economy which were 
conspicuous in every, part and said that they never had seen, even in 
Germany, an encampment more systematically and properly disposed. The 
trophies which we have achieved by this great event, are, officers and 
soldiers, five thousand seven hundred and ninety-one. It has been 
estimated that Burgoyne's army, at the commencement of the campaign, was 
full ten thousand strong; the deficiency now, must be accounted for by the 
killed, loss by sickness, prisoners and deserters. Among the officers 
taken, are six members of the British Parliament. The train of brass 
artillery and other ordnance are immensely valuable, consisting of forty-
two pieces of brass ordnance, besides seven thousand muskets, with six 
thousand dozen cartridges and an ample supply of shot, shells, &c. To 
these are added, clothing for seven thousand men, a large number of tents 
and other military stores. Thus we witness the incalculable reverse of 
fortune, and the extraordinary vicissitudes of military events, as 
ordained by Divine Providence. The same haughty commander, who but a few 
weeks since, flushed with victory, was harassing our retreating army in 
every direction; that proud, assuming foe, who so often threatened to lay 
waste our cities and country, and who said in his orders, early in the 
campaign, "this army must not retreat," is now reduced to the mortifying 
alternative of suing for terms of surrender, to those powers whom he 
affected to treat with sovereign contempt. It must be doubly mortifying to 
contrast his present humble condition with that when he published his 
pompous and bombastic proclamation, calling on towns and people to send 
delegates to supplicate his favor and clemency, and threatening vengeance 
against all those who should dare to disobey his commands, or oppose his 
authority. There are perhaps few examples in the annals of warfare, of a 
whole army under a celebrated general, and officers of the first 
character; gentlemen of noble families, and military merit, being reduced 
to the mortifying condition of captives, led through a country which it 
was designed should have been devoted to their all-conquering power. The 
intelligence of these events to the British government, must affect them 
like the shock of a thunderbolt, and demonstrate to them the invincibility 
of a people united in the noble cause of liberty and the rights of man. 
This event will make one of the most brilliant pages of American history. 
General Gates has crowned himself with unfading laurels and immortal 
honor; he has vanquished a commander of established military fame, at the 
head of a veteran army. He has displayed the qualities of a general, the 
magnanimity of a philanthropist, and the amiable and polite civilities of 
a gentleman. No less dignified and brave as a commander, than beneficent 
and generous as a conqueror, he is remarkable for his humanity to 
prisoners, and a desire to mitigate the sufferings of the unfortunate. 
Among the objects in distress, which claimed his attention, was the lady 
of Major Ackland, commander of the British grenadiers, who was dangerously 
wounded and captured during the battle of the 7th of October. This heroic 
lady, from conjugal affection, was induced to follow the fortune of her 
husband during the whole campaign through the wilderness. Having been 
habituated to a mode of life with which those of rank and fortune are 
peculiarly favored, her delicate frame is ill-calculated to sustain the 
indescribable privations and hardships to which she was unavoidably 
exposed during an active campaign. Her vehicle of conveyance was, part of 
the time, a small twowheeled tumbril, drawn by a single horse, over roads 
almost impassable. Soon after she received the affecting intelligence that 
her husband had received a wound, and was a prisoner, she manifested the 
greatest tenderness and affection, and resolved to visit him in our camp 
to console and alleviate his sufferings. With this view she obtained a 
letter from Burgoyne to General Gates, and not permitting the prospect of 
being out in the night, and drenched in rain, to repress her zeal, she 
proceeded in an open boat, with a few attendants, and arrived at our out-
post in the night, in a suffering condition, from extreme wet and cold. 
The sentinel, faithful to his duty, detained them in the boat till Maj\or 
Dearborn, the officer of the guard, could arrive. He permitted them to 
land, and afforded Lady Ackland the best accommodations in his power, and 
treated her with a cup of tea in his guard-house. When General Gates, in 
the morning, was informed of the unhappy situation of Lady Ackland, he 
immediately ordered her a safe escort, and treated her himself with the 
tenderness of a parent, directing that every attention should be bestowed 
which her rank, or sex, character and circumstances required. She was soon 
conveyed to Albany, where she found her wounded husband. For further 
particulars respecting this highly respectable and interesting lady, the 
reader is referred to the Appendix.

In the military transactions in the northern department, the labors and 
efforts of Major-General Schuyler are acknowledged to be eminently 
important and useful. He is undoubtedly entitled to the character of an 
intelligent and meritorious officer. As a private gentleman he is 
dignified, but courteous, his manners are urbane, and his hospitality is 
unbounded. He is justly considered as one of our most distinguished 
champions of liberty, and his noble mind has soared above despair, even at 
a period when he experienced injustice from the public, and when darkness 
and gloom overspread our land. Though he was not invested with any active 
command, he was present at the surrender of the British army, which was 
near the spot where his elegant country-seat had been demolished. Here he 
sought an interview with the Baroness Reidesel, who with her three 
children, for she was entrusted with this charge during the campaign, he 
politely accommodated in his own tent, and invited her to become his guest 
at his residence at Albany. On the day of the surrender, all the captive 
generals dined with General Gates, and received from him the kindest 
civilities and attention.

We have now brought to a glorious termination a military campaign, 
pregnant with remarkable vicissitudes and momentous events; the result of 
which, seemed for a time to poise on a pinnacle of sanguine hopes and 
expectations on the one side, and the most appalling apprehensions on the 
other. All gratitude and praise be ascribed to Him who alone limits the 
extent of human power, and decrees the destiny of nations!

21st.-The captive Generals Burgoyne, Phillips, Reidesel, &c. with a number 
of ladies of high rank, arrived last evening at the hospitable mansion of 
General Schuyler in this city. His seat is about one mile out of town, and 
I have frequently made it a walk for amusement. It is a house of two 
stories, in elegant ancient style, and fancifully ornamented. I am 
informed that it has for several generations been celebrated for the great 
respectability and generous hospitality of its inhabitants, During the 
last French war, it was almost a general resort for British officers, as 
well as strangers and travellers of note.

22d.-The magnanimous General Schuyler, with his lady and daughters, have 
given their unfortunate guests a friendly and polite reception, 
characteristic of this noble spirited family. Notwithstanding General 
Burgoyne destroyed their beautiful villa at Saratoga, they appear disposed 
to console them in their misfortune by all the civilities and attention in 
their power.

23d.-General Burgoyne gratefully acknowledged the generous treatment 
received from General Schuyler, and observed to him, "You show me great 
kindness, sir, though I have done you much injury." To which he 
magnanimously replied, "That was the fate of war! let us say no more about 
it."

24th.-This hospital is now crowded with officers and soldiers from the 
field of battle; those belonging to the British and Hessian troops, are 
accommodated in the same hospital with our own men, and receive equal care 
and attention. The foreigners are under the care and management of their 
own surgeons. I have been present at some of their capital operations, and 
remarked that the English surgeons perform with skill and dexterity, but 
the Germans, with a few exceptions, do no credit to their profession; some 
of them are the most uncouth and clumsy operators I ever witnessed, and 
appear to be destitute of all sympathy and tenderness towards the 
suffering patient. Not less than one thousand wounded and sick are now in 
this city; the Dutch church, and several private houses are occupied as 
hospitals. We have about thirty surgeons, and mates; and all are 
constantly employed. I am obliged to devote the whole of my time, from 
eight o'clock in the morning to a late hour in the evening, to the care of 
our patients. Here is a fine field for professional improvement. 
Amputating limbs, trepanning fractured skulls, and dressing the most 
formidable wounds, have familiarized my mind to scenes of woe. A military 
hospital is peculiarly calculated to afford examples for profitable 
contemplation, and to interest our sympathy and commisseration. If I turn 
from beholding mutilated bodies, mangled limbs and bleeding, incurable 
wounds, a spectacle no less revolting is presented, of miserable objects, 
languishing under afflicting diseases of every description - here, are 
those in a mournful state of despair, exhibiting the awful harbingers of 
approaching dissolution - there, are those with emaciated bodies and 
ghastly visage, who begin to triumph over grim disease and just lift their 
feeble heads from the pillow of sorrow. No parent, wife or sister, to wipe 
the tear of anguish from their eyes, or to soothe the pillow of death, 
they look up to the physician as their only earthly friend and comforter, 
and trust the hands of a stranger to perform the last mournful duties. 
Frequently have I remarked their confidence in my friendship, as though I 
was endeared to them by brotherly ties. Viewing these unfortunate men as 
the faithful defenders of the liberties of our country, far separated from 
their dearest friends, who would be so lost to the duties of humanity, 
patriotism, and benevolence, as not to minister to their comfort, and pour 
into their wounds the healing balm of consolation? It is my lot to have 
twenty wounded men committed to my care, by Dr. Potts, our surgeon-
general; one of whom, a young man, received a musket-ball through his 
cheeks, cutting its way through the teeth on each side, and the substance 
of the tongue; his sufferings have been great, but he now begins to 
articulate tolerably well. Another had the whole side of his face torn off 
by a cannon-ball, laying his mouth and throat open to view. A brave 
soldier received a musket-ball in his forehead, observing that it did not 
penetrate deep, it was imagined that the ball rebounded and fell out; but 
after several days, on examination, I detected the ball laying flat on the 
bone, and spread under the skin, which I removed. No one can doubt but he 
received his wound while facing the enemy, and it is fortunate for the 
brave fellow that his skull proved too thick for the ball to penetrate. 
But in another instance, a soldier's wound was not so honorable; he 
received a ball in the bottom of his foot, which could not have happened 
unless when in the act of running from the enemy. This poor fellow is held 
in derision by his comrades, and is made a subject of their wit for having 
the mark of a coward. Among the most remarkable occurrences which came 
under my observation, the following is deserving of particular notice. 
Captain Greg, of one of the New York regiments, while stationed at Fort 
Stanwix, on the Mohawk river, went with two of his soldiers into the woods 
a short distance to shoot pigeons; a party of Indians started suddenly 
from concealment in the bushes, shot them all down, tomahawked and scalped 
them, and left them for dead. The captain, after some time, revived, and 
perceiving his men were killed, himself robbed of his scalp, and suffering 
extreme agony from his numerous wounds, made an effort to move, and lay 
his bleeding head on one of the dead bodies, expecting soon to expire. A 
faithful dog who accompanied him, manifested great agitation, and in the 
tenderest manner licked his wounds, which afforded him great relief from 
exquisite distress. He then directed the dog, as if a human being, to go 
in search of some person to come to his relief. The animal, with every 
appearance of anxiety, ran about a mile, when he met with two men fishing 
in the river, and endeavored in the most moving manner, by whining and 
piteous cries, to prevail on them to follow him into the woods; struck 
with the singular conduct of the dog, they were induced to follow him part 
of the way, but fearing some decoy or danger, they were about to return, 
when the dog, fixing his eyes on them, renewed his entreaties by his 
cries, and taking bold of their clothes with his teeth, prevailed on them 
to follow him to the fatal spot. Such was the remarkable fidelity and 
sagacity of this animal. Captain Greg was immediately carried to the fort, 
where his wounds were dressed; he was afterwards removed to our hospital, 
and put under my care. He was a most frightful spectacle, the whole of his 
scalp was removed; in two places on the fore part of his head, the 
tomahawk had penetrated through the skull; there was a wound on his back 
with the same instrument, besides a wound in his side and another through 
his arm by a musket-ball. This unfortunate man, after suffering extremely 
for a long time, finally recovered, and appeared to be well satisfied in 
having his scalp restored to him, though uncovered with hair. The Indian 
mode of scalping their victims is this - with a knife they make a circular 
cut from the forehead, quite round, just above the ears, then taking hold 
of the skin with their teeth, they tear off the whole hairy scalp in an 
instant, with wonderful dexterity. This they carefully dry and preserve as 
a trophy, showing the number of their victims, and they have a method of 
painting on the dried scalp, different figures and Colors, to designate 
the sex and age of the victim, and also the manner and circumstances of 
the murder.

November 10th.-I witnessed yesterday the singular ceremony performed at a 
treaty with the Six Nations of Indians. General Schuyler, and two other 
gentlemen, were the commissioners on our part. Of the Indians, about two 
hundred men and women attended. In the morning, I walked into the woods 
near this city, and was amused to see them occupied in dressing and 
ornamenting themselves for the ceremony; painting their faces, adjusting 
their hair, putting jewels into their ears, noses, &c. The face was 
painted of various colors; in general red, spotted with black and white in 
a fanciful manner. The men had their hair cut close to the skin, except a 
lock on the top of the head. The women wore long hair, ornamented with 
beads and other trinkets. The bodies and limbs of both sexes were decently 
covered in the Indian style, and some displayed large silver rings round 
the arm, and a profusion of party-colored beads, fancifully arranged about 
the legs and feet. Several of the young men and girls were furnished with 
little bells about their feet, to make a jingling when dancing. About 
eleven o'clock, the ceremony commenced on the common; the Indians arranged 
themselves, by sitting on the ground in a circle, the men on one side, the 
women on the other, leaving a vacancy for our commissioners, who were 
seated in chairs. In the centre of the circle was a fire, over which a 
large pot containing meat broth, or soup, was placed. The speakers were 
three elderly chiefs; their speeches or talks were short, and at the close 
of each, the speaker delivered to the commissioners a belt or string of 
wampum, curiously worked with porcupine quills, and handsomely painted, as 
a pledge of sincerity. The interpreter explained in English. In the 
intervals between the talks, the whole of the Indians and squaws threw 
their bodies into odd motions, and at the same time a noise came from 
their throats very similar to the grunting of swine, which, I suppose, was 
a token of approbation. They next commenced dancing, by uniting hands two 
or three at a time, and jumping merrily round the pot over the fire, 
animated by the music of a small drum resembling a keg covered with a 
skin, and the jingling of the bells attached to their legs and feet. The 
interpreter, by desire of the chiefs, requested that our commissioners 
would not be offended at the liberty which they were about to take. One of 
the chiefs then took the commissioners , one at a time, by the hand, and 
danced them round the circle; then rubbing his hand about the grease and 
blacking of the pot, he blackened the face, first of General Schuyler, and 
then the other gentlemen, which excited much laughter. Whether this was a 
trick to excite a laugh, or a part of their national ceremony, I was 
unable to ascertain. The Indians continued dancing round the fire, 
drinking the soup from the pot, and regaling themselves with rum all 
night, and many of them were found drunk in the morning.

My professional duties have been so pressing as to preclude the 
possibility of journalizing to the full extent of my wishes. The numerous 
important events which have occurred to our main army under General, 
Washington, in the Jerseys and Pennsylvania, have been from time to time 
announced in the public papers, and in our general orders. A very brief 
retrospect of the most interesting occurrences during the campaign in that 
quarter must suffice me.

General Washington, having ascertained that it was the great object of Sir 
William Howe to possess himself of the city of Philadelphia, put in 
requisition every effort in his power to counteract his measures for this 
purpose. His force during the whole campaign was considerably inferior to 
that of the enemy. Battles and skirmishing of more or less importance were 
frequent, but not decisive, though attended by no inconsiderable loss of 
human lives. On the 11th of September the two armies approached each other 
in the order of battle, and a general action took place at Brandywine, in 
which the officers and soldiers of both armies displayed a spirit of 
intrepidity and heroism, scarcely ever exceeded. The British claim the 
victory; but it was only a partial one, and, besides a prodigious 
sacrifice of lives, they failed in their main object, that of forcing 
their way to Philadelphia. It is stated, that from particular 
circumstances, little more than one-half of General Washington's force was 
opposed to nearly the whole strength of the enemy. Our loss is mentioned 
in round numbers at one thousand. The Marquis de la Fayette and General 
Woodford were slightly wounded. The loss of the royalists, according to 
accounts published, greatly exceeds that of the Americans.

On the 16th of September, Monsieur de Condry, an officer of rank and 
distinction in the French service, and acting as a volunteer in our army, 
having occasion to cross the Schuylkill ferry, rode a high-spirited horse 
into the boat, which, taking fright, leaped into the river, and the rider 
was unfortunately drowned. Congress resolved that the corpse of Monsieur 
de Condry be interred at the expense of the United States, and with the 
honors of war.

Sir William Howe, on the 26th of September, after much manoeuvring and 
skirmishing, accomplished his great enterprise, and made his triumphal 
entry into the city of Philadelphia, where he met with a cordial welcome 
from the Quakers, and a considerable number of the inhabitants, who have 
long been known to be in favor of the royalists.

On the 4th of October, General Washington planned an attack on the main 
body of the enemy stationed at Germantown, near Philadelphia. The 
enterprise was planned with such judgment and skill, as to afford promise 
of a complete victory. The execution of it was conducted by his 
excellency, who attacks like a hero and retreats like a general, and whose 
presence infuses into the ranks the spirit of heroism and enthusiasm. Were 
it not for some unfortunate incidents, and the faulty conduct of a few 
individuals, his most sanguine hopes would have been realized. The enemy 
was actually taken by surprise, and in one point a party was routed, and 
one hundred and ten made prisoners, but were afterwards retaken. Almost 
the whole force of both armies was involved in the tremendous contest, in 
which British and American bravery were equally conspicuous, and sealed 
the fate of many valiant officers and men. "The morning," says General 
Washington's letter to Congress, "was extremely foggy, which prevented our 
improving the advantage we had gained, so well as we otherwise should have 
done. This circumstance, by concealing from us the true situation of the 
enemy, obliged us to act with more caution and less expedition than we 
could have wished, and gave the enemy time to recover from the effects of 
our first impression; and what was still more unfortunate, it served to 
keep our different parties in ignorance of each other's movements, and 
hindered their acting in concert; it also occasioned them to mistake one 
another for the enemy, which I believe more than any thing else, 
contributed to the misfortunes which ensued. In the midst of the most 
promising appearances, when every thing gave the most flattering hopes of 
victory, the troops began suddenly to retreat, and entirely left the 
field, in spite of every effort that could be made to rally them. On the 
whole, it may be said, this day was rather unfortunate than injurious. The 
principal impediment to our success was, that at the moment of victory, 
the enemy threw a party into Mr. Chew's stone house, who were in a 
situation not easily to be forced; and had it in their power, from the 
windows, to give us considerable annoyance, and in a measure to obstruct 
our advance."

A general officer who was engaged in the battle says: "Fortune smiled on 
our arms for hours. The enemy were broken, dispersed and flying on all 
quarters: we were in possession of their whole encampment, together with 
their artillery park, &c. But confusion at last ensued, and we ran away 
from the arms of victory ready to receive us." It is not to be concealed, 
however, that our army suffered a very considerable loss, the whole number 
is not ascertained. General Nash, of North Carolina, received a mortal 
wound, and General Sullivan's two aids were killed. On the side of the 
royalists, General Agnew, General de Heister's son, and several other 
officers were killed. General Kniphausen was wounded, and a great number 
of rank and file were wounded and slain.

The Americans have erected several forts and redoubts on the banks of the 
Delaware river, and on Mud Island, to guard against the passage of the 
British fleet up this river to Philadelphia. In one of these forts at Red 
Bank, Colonel Greene, of Rhode Island, was posted with about four hundred 
men. General Howe, perceiving the great importance of reducing these 
works, detached Count Donop, an officer held in high estimation in the 
royal army, with twelve or fifteen hundred Hessian troops, well supplied 
with artillery, to take possession of it. Having arrived near the 
redoubts, he summoned the commander to surrender, to which he resolutely 
replied, he would defend the place to the last extremity. This fort being 
originally constructed on a large scale, it was found necessary to run a 
line across the middle, and divide it into two, so that the external part 
was left without defence. The Hessian commander ordered his troops to 
advance under cover of the smoke of his cannon and storm the redoubt; they 
soon gained the unoccupied part with loud huzzas on their supposed 
victory; but on approaching the new lines within, where our troops were 
stationed, the brave garrison poured on them such hot and well-directed 
fire for about forty minutes, that they were completely overpowered, and 
fled in every direction. Colonel Donop, their commander, was mortally 
wounded and taken, and more than one hundred were killed on the spot, and 
a greater number wounded and prisoners. The enemy retreated with great 
precipitation, leaving many of their wounded on the road, and returned to 
Philadelphia with the loss of one-half their party. Colonel Greene, and 
his brave troops, acquired great honor for their gallant defence of the 
fort, which is a key to other posts on the river. Congress have rewarded 
the colonel with an elegant sword. The British army found it difficult to 
procure the necessary supplies in Philadelphia, and the continental 
galleys and strong chevaux de frize in the Delaware, rendered a passage of 
their ships up to the city almost impossible. Admiral Lord Howe determined 
to attempt the removal of these formidable obstructions, and he ordered 
six of his ships to engage in this service. They were so unmercifully 
handled by our galleys, and from Fort Mifflin, at Mud Island, that two of 
them, one of sixty-four guns, run aground and were set on fire by the 
crews, who deserted them, and soon after they blew up.

December.-Fort Mifflin, on Mud Island, has been evacuated by the 
continental garrison, after having been bravely defended against the 
prodigious force of the enemy's shipping. Our troops secured all their 
stores, destroyed the block-houses, and demolished the bank, to let in the 
water, by which the island is entirely inundated. The fort at Red Bank is 
also abandoned, and the continental fleet has been burned, to prevent its 
falling into the hands of the enemy. The British are now in full 
possession of the city of Philadelphia, and their fleet has obtained 
access to it by way of the Delaware river. The continental army, since the 
close of the campaign, has retired for winter-quarters to a place called 
Valley Forge, about twenty miles from Philadelphia. Here they are 
subjected to the fatigue and labor of clearing the woods and constructing 
log huts for their accommodation during the winter.

An occurrence of a very singular complexion has lately been published in a 
Pennsylvania newspaper, which occasions much indignant speculation. The 
Reverend Jacob Duche, a popular Episcopal minister in Philadelphia, was 
the first chaplain appointed by Congress. He performed his official duties 
to general acceptance, frequently and fervently imploring Heaven to 
succeed the American cause. Whether from alarm at the success of the 
royalists, or from any change in his sentiments respecting the justice of 
our cause, is uncertain, but after having officiated about three months, 
he gave in his resignation. He left Philadelphia, and "took shelter under 
the arm of that power which from the sacred pulpit he had exhorted his 
hearers to oppose," But it is no less extraordinary, that this apostate 
addressed a letter to his Excellency General Washington, with whom he was 
on terms of friendship, in which, to use the author's own words, "he has 
spoken freely of Congress, and of the army." He enjoins it on his 
excellency to abandon the American cause, and resign his command of the 
army; or at the head of it, to force Congress immediately to desist from 
hostilities and to rescind their declaration of Independence. If this is 
not