The Battle of Harlem Heights, September 16, 1776; With a Review of the Events of the Campaign (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1897. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... AUTHOKITIES No. 1 WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS Cambridge mass.], 13 March, 1776. Sir, In my letter of the 7th and 9th instant, which I had the honor of addressing you, I mentioned the intelligence I had received respecting the embarkation of the British] troops from Boston; and fully expected before this, that the town would have been entirely evacuated. . . . Holding it of the last importance in the present contest that we should secure New York, and prevent the enemy from possessing it, and conjecturing they have views of that sort, and their embarkation be for that purpose, I judged it necessary, under the situation of things here, to call a council of general officers to consult on such measures, as might be expedient to be taken at this interesting conjuncture of affairs. A copy of the proceedings I have the honor to enclose to you. Agreeably to the opinion of the council, I shall detach the rifle regiment to-morrow, under the command of Brigadier-General Sullivan, with orders to repair to New York with all possible expedition; which will be succeeded the day after by the other five in one brigade, they being all that it was thought advisable to send from hence, till the enemy shall have quitted the town. Immediately upon their departure, I shall send forward Major-General Putnam, and follow myself with the remainder of the army, as soon as I have it in my 125 power, leaving here such a number of men as circumstances may seem to require. . . As New York is of such importance, prudence and policy require that every precaution that can be devised should be adopted to frustrate the designs which the enemy have of possessing it. To this end I have ordered vessels to be provided and held ready at Norwich for the embarkation and tran...