i gºſº,，，, *** · * * * s; šº …：… » « » …….…maeſſº ; și sºſºººººººººaeg º.º， , ， ， +， *）> is& º º ·- ***！* s----** | （（（（（（（-- - - …. （…）））..…–.………… . .，… _… . . . * * * * * | ---- … .……………………….…...！ -·-！ 7 |-！***！%， ſ „º rj- ，·'2'： . ，|×·， ， º§ 8 −， ׺ ， ！·ſajeleſsae **** Eu ſº }} […] sº AºA. J. f Bºrºug \ſ|\$[ º • * mm. ** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tril sº sº e = ** *** * * *-s ºr exº~ * * * * Hmmm, I HAVE located permanently in Cincinnati, for the pur- pose of publishing and circulating, by subscription, such books as are calculated to store the mind with useful knowledge. I will therefore publish only books of a high moral tone and tendency—such works as will be wel- comed to every “home” and “fireside” as valuable family treasures. To do this, I have adopted the following º RULES AND REGULATIONS. To sell only through my own Agents. To sell at a regular price-and one price only. Not to place my books in Book Stores for sale, as by so doing, I could mot maintain a uniform Price. To obligate my Agents by a writtem contract, to fulfill, faithfully, the above ** Rules. 22 Not to reduce the price of a book after its first issue. Q4.-º 32-* *ſº." -.: !} ſº*&s § : yº ; § By pursuing an upright and honorable course, I hope to merit a liberal share of public patronage. s: *gSº* § A G E N T S ED E S [IR E. D. § * Energetic and reliable men are ever desired to circulate my publications in all parts of “The Union.” Men who are not lazy in their habits, will find this an agreeable and honorable avocation. . I will forward a list of my publications, with a descrip- tion of each, and terms to Agents upon application. Address, s - *º- -> & 3. & WS MACK R. BARNITZ, PUBLISHER. : * 40 West Fourth STREET, Cincinnati, Ohio. * tº gº sº fe r * º § §§§ºś3 - §§§§§§§§ §§§ § §: * 3. * .# º erºs a ge * > * º: **. {} IIIll(III/III). THE COMMENCEMENT TO THE DISBANDING of THE AMERICAN ARMY. GIVEN IN THE FORM OF A DALLY JOURNAL, WITH THE EXACT DATES OF ALL THE IMPORTANT EVENTs; ALSO, A B I 0 G R A PHICAL SKETC H OF ALL THE MOST PROMINENT GENERALS BY J AM E S T H A Giff, R., M.D., su R gro N IN THE AM E. Rican Revoy, ution ARY ARMY. “As Americans, we hail with delight any attempt to rescue from oblivion the words or actions of those whose names we have been taught to revere.” PUBLISHED BY SUBSCRIPTION ONLY. CINCINNATI, OHIO: PUBLISHED BY MACK R. BARNITZ, 38 AND 40 west Fou RTH STREET. w 1859. E NTERED Accor DING To A GT or con GREss, IN THE YEAR 1856, s BY M A C K R. BARNITZ, IN THE C L E R K'S OF FIC E OF THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE UNITED STATES, For T H E D IS T R ICT OF O HIO . STEAM PRESS WILLIAMS AND WILEY. PREF ACE, “History,” says a late elegant writer, “presents no struggle for liberty which has in it more of the moral sublime than that of the American Revolution. It has been of late years too much forgotten in the sharp conten- tions of party; and he who endeavors to withdraw the public mind from the debasing conflicts, and to fix it on the grandeur of that epoch, which, magnificent in itself, begins now to wear the solemn livery of antiquity, as it is viewed through the deepening twilight of more than half a century, certainly performs a meritorious service, and can scarcely need justification.” The American Revolution, conducted, as it was, by a band of brave and heroic spirits, animated by the highest and noblest motives, should never be forgotten. The peace- ful possession of the rich inheritance they bequeathed to . posterity, obtained at so much sacrifice, should enshrine their memory in the heart of every free citizen; and cause the story of their deeds to be perused with new and ever increasing interest. - What can be better calculated to stir the mighty pulsa- tions of a nation's heart, and fill it with patriotic enthusi- asm, than the recital of those glorious achievements of gallant spirits, upon our own soil, for the priceless legacy of Liberty and Freedom Ž - And who can better bring before us the events and trans- actions of that important period, that memorable struggle, than one who daily witnessed its thrilling scenes, and rade with an impartial hand their daily record? :º, PR E FA C E. The narrations in this “Journal” are invested, with peculiar interest, from the fact that its author himself min- gled in the varied scenes of the Revolution, observed the different phases of military life; was personally acquainted with the characters he presents; and therefore gives us the truthful results of his own observation, greatly height- ened in beauty and interest, by the attractive style which he employs, and the ease and grace with which he presents them. It is richly interspersed with sentiment, enlivened by anecdote, and abounds in rare and valuable information, such as can not fail of being regardèd by every one who has a heart to appreciate the glorious privileges of this our dear-bought heritage. Let one apply himself to the perusal of these deeply interesting pages, and the love of liberty will grow stronger in his heart, and on its altar the fires of patriotism will grow brighter and purer! Let him look at the illustrious characters who played their part so effectually on the broad theatre of the Rev- olution, as they are here portrayed, and learn what mighty results, holy purpose, coupled with invincible energy, can work out. Let him peruse these “Annals” of the ever memorable contest, with devout admiration, and sincere gratitude to those heroic men, who, under providence, wrought the sublime achievement of our “National Independence,” and think, “It is to the virtues of such souls, man owes His portion in the good that Heaven bestows.” 0 0 NTE N T S, PAGE Denication,.................................................................... ? Introduction,.............................................................. . . . . . . 5 Causes which led to the War,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 7 Whig and Tory, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Parliament impose a Duty on Tea—a Cargo destroyed in Boston, ...... • * * * * * * * * * * ... 10 British Troops arrive in Boston—Gen. Gage appointed governor and commander,.... 10 Courts of Justice interrupted by the People,.......... tº g º ºs º 'º gº º 'º e º ºs º ſº ºn * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 11 The Otis Family, ... . . . . . . . tº ſe tº tº ſe e ſº tº e º 'º º 'º º tº e º 'º º tº ſº tº a º e º e º 'º º * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 11 Colonel Nesbit Tars and Feathers a Countryman, ......... tº º is a tº $ tº gº tº ſº e º ſº e º º & º º sº tº sº º º ſº 12 Intelligence received of the Battle at Lexington,..... • * a s e s is a e º e º e º e º s º ºs e º e º 'º e º 'º º e 13 Companies of Minute-men formed,......... * * * is © tº e º tº gº tº e & º ºs º is e º ſº e º tº e º ºs º ºf * e º e º º sº tº * * * 14 Lexington Battle described,......... * - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14 Origin of the term Yankee,.......................................... tº e º s º º is e º 'º $ tº & 15 Provincial Congress address the People,....... dº tº ſº tº º is tº º e º 'º e º º & sº e g º e º e º is e º s º ºs e º ſº tº e º 'º 16 Zeal and Military Ardor pervade New England,.............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Town of Boston invested,........ tº e º e e º 'º e º º ºs e º e º g g g g g e º 'º º e º e º tº e º e º ºs e º 'º e º º ºs e º e º e º e e 17 The British practice the Maxim, “Divide and Conquer”—we enjoin, “Unite and be Invincible,”.......... tº gº tº tº º is © tº $ tº tº ſº & tº e º 'º e º ºn s e º s º is a g º g º ºs e º e ºs e e º ei º e º e º e g º 'º e º º ſº º 17 Liberty-poles erected and Tories disciplined, .................... • * * * * * * * * * w & º º ... ... 18 New England Clergy advocate Whig Principles,.................................... 19 General Gage's Proclamation, declaring the Province of Massachusetts to be in a state of Rebellion,...... tº E tº e º tº e º º e º & tº º * * * * * * tº G & a nº sº e º e º 'º e º 'º - sº e º ſº sº. tº a ge º g º º tº gº tº 9 º' g º e º 19 Attempts to Dissuude the Author from engaging in the Army,...................... 20 The Author repairs to the Provincial Congress—offers himself a Candidate for Office,... 21 | Visits the Forefathers' Rock at Plymouth,...................... tº e º gº tº e º * tº º s ſº tº º ºs º ºs º º 22 Battle on Breed's hill—General Warren slain, ....................... * * * * * * * g º e º 'º e º 'º 22 Result of the Battle, ...... tº is tº sº tº gº tº e g º º ſº. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * g e º ſº e º -e ºs e º ºs tº º is tº e º ſº tº gº tº g º e º e º & wº 27 The Author passes a Medical Examination—is appointed to the Hospital Department, 28 General Washington appointed Commander-in-Chief—arrives at Cambridge, ......... 2 Generals Lee and Gates arrive at Cambridge, .................. tº gº e º 'º e º 'º e º 'º & tº gº tº e º ºs e e 29 A View of General Washington, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tº º ºs e º & º 'º a tº e º ſº e º 'º e º 'º gº gº tº $ tº e º us tº e º 'º & 30 Cannonade from our Works and from the Enemy, ................ tº e º º ſº º sº º e e e e º gº tº gº & 30 Congress issue Paper Money, ...... tº e º gº tº ºi º e º 'º tº ºn gº tº º e º º tº º º te tº e º is tº e e g º e º º * * * * * * * * * * * * * 31 Riflemen arrive at Camp—their Expert Shooting,.................................. 31 Dr. Benjamin Church detected in a Treacherous Correspondence with the Enemy,.... 31 General Gage sails for England, .......... * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * g e e º gº is $ tº ſº º e º ºs º º $ tº dº 32 General Howe prohibits the Inhabitants of Boston leaving the town, ......... we e º 'º º ſº e 32 Their Distressed Situation,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . & º ºs e º 'º dº e º ºs e º sº a ge e º is tº e º 'º e º & gº & 32 State of our Military Hospitals,... . . . . . . . . . . . ....................................... 33 Captain Manley takes a Valuable Prize, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Destitute Condition of the Troops and Inhabitants in Boston, ........................ 34 Connecticut Troops quit Camp, and the Militia arrive,............... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Americans occupy Lechmere's Point—Cannonade on both sides,.................... 35 Critical Situation of our Army,....... tº e º º te & ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * Death of General Montgomery, ...... tº e º ºs º º º ſº e º 'º e º e º e º sº º sº ſº e º ºs e º se e º ºs e º sº e º ºs º º e º º º sº * * * 35 Major Knowlton burns several Houses in Charlestown, ...................... . . . . . . . 36 viii CONTENTS. PAGE Anecdote of British Officers, ............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . *6 British Officers alarmed while at the Theatre, ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 The Author joins Colonel W.'s Regiment, ........................................ 37 Preparations for a Battle,............ ............ - * * * * * * * * * * * e º e e & . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Our Army take possession of Dorchester"Heights, ... ....... 6 - e º & & 6 º' . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 General Howe sends out a Flag, proposing to evacuate the town of Boston,.......... 40 Poston evacuated,................................................................ 41 Our Troops march into Boston,................................................... 41 View of the Old South Church,.................... • * * * * e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4° Dr. Elliot preaches a Thanksgiving Sermon,..... & & © tº e º ºs e º e e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Fuuerul Solemnities of the late General Warren, .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 British Ships driven from Nantasket,........................ • * * * s tº g º e º 'º e . . . . . . . . . . 44 Prizes tuken with Colonel Campbell, &c,................................ . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Deplorable Situation of our Army in Canada,....................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Death of General Thomas—his Character,....................................... ... 45 Independence declared by Congress,.............................................. 45 Anecdote of Mr. H. and Mr. G..................................................... 48 British attack Charleston, South Carolina,............................... . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Purliament hire Foreign Troops,........................ tº e º tº º e º 'º e to e s - © - - e º e º 'º - e - a . . 49 The two Howes appointed Commissioners,.................. • * * * * is e o e º 'º . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Letter from the Commissioners to General Washington not properly directed—refused, 50 Colonel Paiterson has an Interview with Washington,.............................. 50 Colonel Whitcomb's Regiment march to Ticonderoga, .............................. 51 Bite of a Ruttle-snake,.................................................. . . . . . . . . . . 52 Horrid Plot discovered at New York,.............................................. 53 Treachery of Lieutenant-Colonel Zedwitz, .................. • * * * * * * * * * * - e º tº . . . . . . . . 54 Puttle on Long Island,............................................................ 54 Our Retreat from New York,...................................................... 55 Lord Howe desires an Interview with some Members of Congress,................... 56 Result of the Interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................. 57 Destructive Fire in New York,.................................................... 57 General Washington in Danger, . . . . . . . . . . . . ....................................... 58 Remarkable Escape of Part of our Army,.......................................... 58 Formation of our Army,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................. 59 Pay and Rations,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................ 60 Ticonderoga described,........................................................... 61 American Torpedo,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..................................... 62 Naval Action on Lake Champlain, ................................................. 63 The Enemy retire into Canada,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................ 65 The British take possession of Newport,........................................... 66 Forts Washington and Lee taken by the Enemy,................................... 66 General Lee taken–Gloomy Aspect of Affairs, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. 66 Proclamation of Commissioners, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................... 67 *iot in Camp, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................. 68 Capture of Hessians at Trenton,.................................................... 69 Ravages of the British in Jersey, . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................... 71 Washington's Victory at Princeton, ................................................ 71 The Enemy driven from Jersey................................................... 72 Washington's Proclamation,...................................................... 73 Spy executed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........... 73 Rigorous Treatment of General Lee,............................................... 73 Retaliation resorted to,................................ . . . . . . . . . . . . ............... 74 Cruel Treatment of our Prisoners,..........'...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........... 75 Outrageous Conduct of the Enemy,................................................ 77 Stores at Peekskill destroyed,..................................................... 78 Stores at Danbury destroyed,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. 78 British Plan for the Campaign, .................................................... 79 $º- CONTENTS. ix PAGE Romantic View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Burgoyne's Boumbastic Proclamation,............................................. British Army approuches Ticonderoga, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ticonderoga evacuated, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retreat of General St. Clair, and Battle at Hubbertown and at Fort Anne,........... General Prescott taken at Newport, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Washington's Manifesto,................................................. Fort Stanwix invested,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . City of Albany described,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Schuyler retreats from Fort Edward to Stillwater,......................... Brave Conduct of Major Hull, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................ Burgoyne despatches Colonel Baum on an Expedition to Bennington, .............. His Curious Instructions,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . He is attacked and defeated by General Stark,..................................... Affecting Anecdote, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Major-General Gates supersedes General Schuyler, and issues a Proclamation,....... Murder of Miss Jenny McCreil,................................................... General Gates complains to General Burgoyne of Cruel Murders—Burgoyme’s Reply, General Gates advances to offer Battle, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Battle of the 19th of September,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Lincoln detaches Colonel Brown to Fort George,.......................... Nuthan Palmer, a Spy, executed, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Expedition of the Enemy up the North river, ..................................... Battle of the 7th of October, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . British General Frazer slain—General Arnold wounded,........................... General Lincoln wounded,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Remarkable Escape of part of Gates' Army,................................... © º º Forts Montgomery and Clinton taken, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............ Fºsopus Burned,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * e g o e º a e & Burgoyne in a Deplorable Situation and General Gates under Embarrassment,....... Daniel Taylor, a Spy, taken and executed—He swallows a Silver Bullet, and is made to discharge it. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Burgoyne proposes to Capitulate,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Articles of Capitulation agreed on, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . British Army surrender,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Burgoyne attempts to evade the Treaty, ... . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * g e is e s e s e e Trophies of the Victory, and Observations respecting it, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........... Misfortunes of Lady Ackland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............... Meritorious Services of General Schuyler, ................. • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * e s a • * * Captured Officers and Ladies arrive at General Schuyler's,......... • * * * * * * * * e s e º e a e Our Hospital crowded with Wounded Men, .............. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Remarkable Preservation of Captain Gregg, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......................... Indian Mode of Scalping,... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. e Ceremonies at an Indian Treaty, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................ Battle of Brandywine, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............... Royal Army enter Philadelphia,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. Battle of Germantown, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buttle of Red Bunk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. Fort Mifflin evacuated,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................. Singular Conduct of Rev. Mr. Duche—his Prayer, ................................. Master Trotter's Dancing-school, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................ tº e º tº American Torpedo,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. Celebration of our Alliance with France, . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................... - © - Sufferings of our Army at Valley Forge, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * e º 'º - e º e º e º e º e º e º 'º Attempt to supersede General Washington,...................................... e Trial and Execution of Culprits,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ Catastrophe at Schoharie, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 81 S2 82 84 86 87 88 90 91 91 91 91 92 94 94 95 95 96 97 99 99 100 101 102 103 103 104 105 105 106 106 107 107 108 109 110 1 11 112 112 114 115 117 117 117- 119 121 122. 122 12S 127 129 131 131 i X CONTENTs. PAGL. Removal from Albany, ................. * * * * * * * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13% Robinson's house occupied as a Hospital—description of it and its vicinity, ........ 132 Sugar-loaf Mountain and Putnam’s Rock, ..... e s a tº e º e e s e e s tº a tº e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 Royal Commissioners make Proposals for an adjustment of Difficulties, ............. 134 Congress address the People, ..................................................... 135 . Dissatisfaction among our Officers, ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 Congress grant Half-pay for seven years,.......................................... 137 Royal Army evacuate Philadelphia,.............................................. 138 Battle of Monmouth, ........ • * * * * * * * * * * * * • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 Affair of General Lee, ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 An Unlucky Shot, .......... tº e º e - - - - e º e • e - e. e. e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Royal Commissioners' Improper Conduct, ........................................ 140 Shaking Quakers, ........ º $ & ſº e º e tº tº º º ſº º tº º º º º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Tragicul Event and Barbarous Conduct at Wyoming,.............................. 142 A Black-snake,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................... 145 French Fleet arrive at Rhode Island, and an Expedition there,.......... . . . . . . . . . . . 146 General Lee tried and condemned, ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 A Duel,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 General Putnam visits the Hospital,.............................................. 148 Declaration of British Commissioners,............................................ 148 Congress reply to the Commissioners,............................................. 149 Colonel Baylor's Regiment massacred,................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 General Washington visits the Hospital : his person described, ..................... 152 Generals Schuyler and St. Clair tried and acquitted—Character of the latter,....... ... 153 Brigadier-General Muhlenburg gives an Entertainment,............................ 154 The Author appointed Regimental Surgeon,......... tº e º 'º e º 'º e - e - e º º e s - e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. ... 154 A Visit to the Marquis de la Fayette,................ tº º º e º 'º - - - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155 Colonel Alden slain, ........... tº e º º tº a tº e tº e º e º ºr e º 'º a º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156 March through the Jerseys, .............. • - e. e. e. e. e. e. © º e º 4 & e º ºs e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156 A remarkably large Child, ......... tº a s e º e • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 An Entertainment,.... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158 Log Huts, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . & e º 'º s tº e g º e º 'º e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158 A Duel, . . . . . . . . . . . • * * * * * * tº e g º e º 'º we e º e º e e - • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * e e º e s e e e s e e º e = e = . . . . 159 A Celebration, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159 Dinner at Head-Quarters; General Washington and Mrs. W.......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 Public Execution,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .......................... 161 Grand Review by the French Minister and Don Mirrilliars,.......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 General Washington on horseback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................. 162 Indian Chiefs review our Army,.......... ſº tº e º º º º º * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ... 163 Review by Baron Steuben ; Some Account of the Baron, ......................... ... 103 A Duel, . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * tº t e º e s - e º s a m e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 The Author invited to join Colonel H. Jackson's Regiment,...................... ... 166 A remarkably large Ox presented to General Washington,......................... 167 A Journey to Providence, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................................... 167 Incursion of Governor Tryon into Connecticut,......................... . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Capture of Stony Point, ........... tº e º º te e º 'º e º 'º tº gº tº . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Dinner at General Gates’ Head-Quarters, . . . . . . . . ............................... . . . 169 Female Heroism, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 Anecdote of Lieut. T. and General Gates,......................................... 169 Penobscot Expedition,........................ . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169 A Forced March to Boston,..... • * * * * > * * * * * * * * * • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171 Anecdote of a Soldier, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . e is a s tº e º e º s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171 Civilities of the Gentlemen in Boston,. . . . . . . . . . ................................... 171 Embark for Penobscot; Disembark at Kittery; March to Falmouth,................ 172 Defeat of our Army and Navy at Penobscot, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................... 174 Some Account of Falmouth and Civilities received there, ......................... 174 Anecdote of J. Otis, Esq.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , 175 CONTENTS. xi PAGE Stony Point taken, and Officers rewarded for their bravery, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176 Paulus Hook taken by Major Lee,... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178 Return to Providence,.................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178 Mr. Murray's Preachment,.................... & ſº a s - e. e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178 Anecdote of General Prescott and of a Negro,...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 Newport evacuated by the British, ................ * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 March through Connecticut to Head-Quarters, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tº e e º ºs e º & e º e º ºs º is tº dº º e . 180 Sufferings of our Army by Cold and Famine, ................ e º ºs º ºs e - e. * * * * * * * e a s e ºs ... 180 Disadvantage of Short Enlistments, ................ • * e º e g c e º ºs e g º 4 m e º 'º - sº * * * * * * * * * ... 182 General Lineoln and Count D'Estaing make an Unsuccessful Attack on Savannah, ... 183 Extraordinary Exploit of Colonel White,..................... tº e e º e º 'º - - e º e s tº º e s is is e . 183 Anecdote at Head-Quarters,....... * * * * * * * * * * tº e º 'º º - * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * • * * * * * * * * * ... 184 Privations and Sufferings of our Army,.............................. sº e s m e º e º e < * * * 185 Military Punishments,.................... * e g º e º º e º 'º e º e º e º 'º e º 'º º ºs º º º & tº e º e º e º e º e º º º 186 Réenlistment of Soldiers,......... tº e º ºs º e º a tº º e & 4 - © tº tº º º * * * * * * As e e º e s tº e s - e. e. e. e. º e a s tº e s a 188 Expedition to Staten Island,........................ e e s is © g g g g º e e º e º ºr e e s m e º e s tº e º e e 188 A Party of Massachusetts Soldiers attempt to return Home, ........... • * * * * * * * * * *-s s 189 Winter-Quarters; Sufferings of our Soldiers; Severe Winter,.................. .... 190 Major Boyles and Party surprised, ........... • * * * * * * * e º 'º a s tº s = º e & © & © - - * ~ * * * & e g º e s tº e 191 A Grand Review by the French Minister,......... • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 192 Pompous Funeral at Head-Quarters,............... • * ~ * e º & tº e º e º & © tº * * * © tº º º ºs º º & © tº * * * 192 Dissatisfaction in Camp,............................................ - e º e º ſº º e º & tº * is 193 Great Depreciation of Continental Money, .............. • * * * g º ºs e º 'º - e. e. e. • * * * * e e s ºr e º e 194 Congress grants Half-pay to the Officers for Life, ......... tº tº gº tº º e º e º - - - - - - - - e. e. e e s s s is 194 Committee of Congress visit Camp, ..................... e tº º e º e º e º e º ºs e - e. e. e. e. © e is a e is e e 195 Public Execution,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . & e º 'º g º e º 'º e º 'º e º 'º e º 'o e º a e e g º e º e º 'º e º e º e º s e º e s s e s as a s 195 Difficulties in Camp, ...... tº e - tº 6 º' º e e º sº e º sº e º e < * * * * º e º º & E → * * * & º e º ºs e º e º e º e º is & º º 'º e º ºs & 197 Mutiny of two Regiments, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • * * * * * * * * tº º is º e º e º 'º e º º a º a a tº e s is tº e s tº 197 Skirmish at Connecticut Farms, ................. * - © tº tº t t e i e º & e º ſº º e º 'º e º & © tº e º ſº tº tº e º 'º 198 Murder of the Lady of the Rev. Mr. Caldwell,................ tº gº tº e - - - - © e ºs tº e º 'º s e º ſº e - 199 General Lincoln surrenders Charleston, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • * * * * * * * 199 Three Spies executed,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - e º 'º º e º is e º º e o a 200 Battle at Springfield, New Jersey, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . & © e º 'º - e º e s tº ºn . . . . . . . 201 Description of Pussuic Falls,... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tº t e º ſº e º e 203 Remarkably Big-headed Boy at Tatawa.......... • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ... . . 203 French Fleet and Army arrive, . . . . . . . . . . . tº º º ºr e º 'º - º e º 'º e º 'º º ºs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 A Dinner at Lord Stirling's,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • * g e is e e - e. e. e º e º s e º sº . . . . . 205 Corps of Light-Infantry formed under the Marquis de la Fayette,................. . 207 Our Ariny prepared for Active Service,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 A Committee from Congress, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 A Sermon by Rev. Mr. E. Hitchcock, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209 A Famine apprehended; our Army march in quest of Provisions,.................. 209 Two Fatal Duels, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * e º & © tº º * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * . . . . . . . . 21% Defeat of our Southern Army under General Gates; Baren de Kalb slain, . . . . . . . . . . . 210 Funeral of General Poor, . . . . . e e - e. e. e. e. e. e. • • - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - • * * * * * * • * * * * * * * . . . . . . 212 Review of our Army by Indian Chiefs, . . . . . . . . . . . • - e º ºs e a gº e º ºs e a * * * * * * * * * * * * * * . . . . . 213 General Washington journeys to Hartford, . . . . . . . • * - - e. e. e. e e º ſº º e s e º 'º - - • a e e e s m e a . . . . . 214 Major-General Greene succeeds to the command,.................................. 214 Treason of General Arnold; Capture of Major Andre; West Point described, ....... 215 Character of General Arnold; Circumstances o Major Andre’s Capture, ............ 216 The Captors of Major Andre rewarded. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....................... 219 Trial and Condemnation of Major Andre, ......................................... 224 Letter from Major Andre to General Washington, ................................. 225 Flag from New York respecting Major Andre,..................................... 825 Execution of Major Andre; his Character,..................................... . . . 228 Tragical Death of Captain Hale, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 Trial of Joshua Smith, Esq., Arnold's Confederate,........................ . . . . . . . . 233 xii CONTENTS. PAGE Incursion of the Enemy on Northern Frontiers,..................... ............... 235 Successful Engagement at the Southward,........................................ 235 . A Foraging Expedition ; the Neutral Ground,..................................... 237 Ladies contribute to the relief of our Army; Address from an American Lady,...... 240 Scarcity of Provisions in Camp ; Enterprise of Major Talmage,.......... . . . . . . . . . . . 242 Great Dissatisfaction among the Officers,.......................................... 243 General Washington recommends to Congress an Half-pay Establishment,.......... 244 New Arrangement of the Army,.................................................. 245 Mutiny of the Pennsylvania Line,......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 846 Lieutenant-Colonel Hull's Successful Expedition,.................................. 250 Mutiny of the Jersey Line,....................................................... 251 Brilliant Action of General Sumpter,............................................. 253 Battle of the Cowpens,........................................................... 254 Devastation on the Neutral Ground,.............................................. 255 A Visit to the British Lines by a Flag, ............................................ 255 Confederation ratified,.................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 357 Inoculation of the Troops with Small-pox,......................................... 257 Virtues of Butternut,............................................................ 258 Cupture of General Wadsworth, ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258 Character of Dr. Cochran, ....................................................... 259 Battle of Guilford; Distress of our Southern Army,................................ 260 Arnold's Expedition to Virginia,................................................. 260 Success of General Greene's Army in Carolina; Desertions from the Enemy,........ 261 Colonel Greene and his Party slain, ............ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203 Singular Project contemplated, and Important Despatches taken by the Enemy,..... 263 Charins of Martial Music,...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 Our Army advance towards the Enemy,.......................................... 264 French Army unite with ours, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tº tº e º 'º e • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 865 Corps of Light-Infantry formed by Colonel Scammel; the Author joins it,.......... 266 Disaster of a British Ship; Expedition to the Enemy's Lines,...................... 267 Our Army in motion; Conjecture respecting the Object of the Campaign, .......... 268 The Secret explained; we march for the South—a masterly piece of generalship,.... 270 Lord Cornwallis the Object of our Expedition,.................................... 270 March through the city of Philadelphia, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. 271 French Fleet arrive at the Chesapeake,............ • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274 Embark at the head of Elk: Voyage down the Chesapeake,....................... 274 Put in at the Harbor of Anapolis, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................. 275 Arnold's Expedition to Connecticut,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................... 276 Naval Engagement; the British defeated; Voyage down the Chesapeake,.......... 277 Reach the Harbor of Jamestown.................................................. 278 Arrive at Yorktown, and begin the Siege,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................. 279 Colonel Scammel wounded and taken, ........................................... 280 Anecdote of General Washington and Mr. Evans,................................. 280 The British obliged to kill their Horses,.... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................. 280 Colonel Tarleton wounded in a Skirmish ; Death of Colonel Scammel,.............. 281 A Detachment from the Allied Army open Entrenchments against the Enemy,..... 281 Tremendous Cannonade from our Lines,......................................... 283 A Splendid Conflagration of British Vessels,............................... . . . . . . . 283 Second Parallel Line thrown up,.............................. s.................. 283 Two Redoubts taken by the Allied Army,........................................ 284 Anecdote of General Washington and Colonel Cobb, .............................. 285 Anecdote of the Marquis de la Fayette and Baron Viomenil (note),................. 285 Cornwallis proposes to Capitulate; Bold Attempt to effect his Escape,.............. 287 Articles of Capitulation ratified,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................ 287 Surrender of the British Army, ... ... • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288 Siligular Circumstance respecting Cornwallis and Mr. Laurens (note),............... 283 Commander-in-Chief expresses his Thanks to the Army, &c........................ 291 CONTENTS. xiii FAGE Enormities practised by the Enemy in Virginia,................................... 292 Colonel Turleton's Horse taken from him,................ tº gº ºn tº e º 'º e tº tº e º ſº º ºſ e º º w tº e º e º 'º 292 View of Yorktown after the Siege; Loss on both sides,........ tº e º 'º º & © a sº º ºs º $ tº e º 'º º tº $ 292 Lord Cornwallis and his Enormities,...... tº a p * * * * * * * * * * * i.e is & ºn tº gº tº gº tº gº tº º is e º is s & e º ºs º ºs º º 293 Ferocious Añimosity between the two Parties,............ y • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 293 £ruel Death of Colonel Hayne,...... e s e º 'º e º a g º s is e is a e s & e º ºr e º e º is e e s e £ º 'º º gº tº g tº e º s e º 'º º 297 Sanguinary Character of Lord Rawdon,....................... * tº ſº tº e º e º is sº tº e tº e º is a s tº se 298 Anecdote of the Marquis de la Fayette and Lord Cornwallis,........... * * * * * * * * * * * * 300 Battle at Eutaw Springs,........... ºf s e s tº dº º e º e º is a tº dº e º º is ſº dº s º tº e º 'º & © tº is º º ºs e º sº sº e º ºr ºn e º a s 301 Anecdote of Lord Cornwallis; Voyage up the Chesapeake, &c..................... 302 Exploit of Major Trescott,................... .................................... 303 Incursion of the Enemy on our Frontiers,......................................... 304 Proceedings of Congress on our Victory,............. • * * * * * * * * * g º e º 'º e º 'º e º e s ∈ º e s e s is 3(15 Abbé Bandole's Address,.............._* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * tº e º 'º gº ſº e º e º g º e º ſº º s 306 Fatal Duel,........... * - a g º ſº e º e < e º g º e º 'º s ºf g º is a # * * * * * * * * * * * > * > t e º 'º & © tº s º dº ſº º te tº ºr tº e º e 308 Splendid Celebration of the Birth of the Dauphin, . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309 Mutiny in the Connecticut Line, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310 Cruel Murder of Captain Huddy,............. © e º ſº ſº tº dº tº º tº c is tº gº º º e º e º ºs º 'º e º e º e is e s e s = º º 312 General Washington resolves on Retaliation: the lot falls on Captain Asgill,........ 314 Lady Asgill receives intelligence of the situation of her son, implores the compassion of the English king and queen, and solicits the interposition of the king and queen of France,.... . . . . . . . . tº º is ſº º is a tº e º sº tº ſº tº sº º º tº $ tº $ a e º e º ºs º º * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * & & © tº $ sº tº € 317 Count de Vergennes addresses General Washington in favor of Asgill, who is finally liberated,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317 Baron Grimm's Erroneous Statement respecting Captain Asgill,.................... 3.18 Lady Asgill's two Letters to the Count de Vergennes,............ tº e º ºs ºf e º e g º g º 'º e º º ſº 3.19 Dr. Jones and Robert Morris,...... tº tº e º ºs & º & tº e s e º we e º 'º e º 'º º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321 Review of our Army by Count Rochambeau, ..... $ tº e º & tº º e º tº e tº sº º ſº e º 'º e º 'º e. e. e. e º 'º e º ºs º º 322 Lamented Death of Colonel Laurens,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................... © & © tº * * *: 323 Loss of the Royal George, . . . . . . . . . . * * * > * > e * * * > * > … tº º tº º is tº tº º sº e º e º e º º ſº º e º 'º e s is e º e a s a º 324 Prospect of Peace; General McDougall,....... & a tº e º e < * * * * g e º ſº * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * > * 324 Reduction of our Army,....... e e e º gº e º g º e s & e º ſº º is e e tº º e º 'º e º e º 'º e º dº e º e º e º sº º ºs e º sº s e º a s . 325 A Final Adieu to Military Life, ........ & tº º ſº º tº gº tº º gº º gº º ve tº e º 'º º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326 R E W 0 L U T I 0 M A R Y A M N A I, S, SocIETY OF Cincinnati,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327 Officers of the Army memorialize Congress, ............... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329 Proceedings of that body,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 330 Anonymous Letters to the Army,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 330 Wise Measures of Washington to counteract the effects of the Anonymous Letters, .. 333 Author of the Anonymous Letters (note),..................... tº º 'º e º e º gº º e º 'º we e º ſº e º 'º e 333 Washington’s admirable Address to the Officers, ............. to e º º 'º ºr tº º ºs º gº tº tº º 'º g tº e º a tº 334 The Officers present their Thanks to his Excellency, with affectionate expressions,... 336 General Washington addresses Congress in favor of the Army,..................... 337 Congress grant a sum in gross as a Commutation for Half-pay,. . . . . . . . tº ſº tº tº º tº ſº tº $ tº e º º 338 The Commander-in-Chief orders a Truce, and congratulates the Army,.............. 339 Officers still dissatisfied, and address the Commander-in-Chief, .................... . 341 His Reply, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * > * * * * * * * ~ * c e º e º ºs e is e s a º ... . . .342 Proclamation of Congress for a cessation of Hostilities, ........ tº e º 'º e º 'º tº $ tº º tº º g º ºs º ºs º º 343 Mutiny of a Party of Pennsylvania Soldiers, ...... tº e º 'º º e º º º tº e º 'º ºn tº º º tº º Aº º ſº tº * * * * g e º sº gº tº 343 General Washington issues his Farewell Orders,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345 Disbandment of the Army,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346 Congress give their Thanks to the Army: Painful Parting Scene, ................... 346 Royal Army evacuate New York, and American Troops take possession,............ 346 General Washington's Parting Scene, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 347 xiv. CONTENTS. YPAGY: General Washington resigns his Commission; addresses President of Congress,..... 348 Reply of the President of Congress, ....... ........... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349 Number of Men lost during the American War,................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 Loss to Great Britain; Gain to the United States,........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 Extract of a Circular Letter from General Washington,............................ 350 Colonel John Crane and many other Boston Mechanics, ........ ................... • 351 Colonel Paul Revere, ................. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * e e º sº º º ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354 Anecdotes of Dr. Thomas and Captain Houdin,...... e e º e º s tº we e º sº G & º ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 334 A P P R N D I X , General Burgoyne's Observations respecting the Battles at Saratoga and Death of General Frazer, ................ tº e º w e º 'º e º e º e º e º 'º e º e º e º e º 'º e º a & º e g º e :............ 357 Affecting Story of Lady Ackland,........................ ............ . . . . . . . . . . . . 359 Extract from the Baroness Reidesel's Narrative,....... • * * * * * * * * * tº e º e º 'º ....... ... .. 361 Her interesting Account of General Frazer and other Wounded Officers,............ 363 Of the Ladies of the Army,.............................. • tº e º e º 'º tº e º e tº e º ºs e º º ... ... 367 Her Kind Reception by General Schuyler,............................ ... . . . . . . . . . 370 Anecdote of General Burgoyne and General Schuyler, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 371 Battle of the Kegs, ...... e - © e º º tº g g º e º ºr e º e g º ºs e º 'º - w is e º 'º e º & • - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - . . 372 Capture and Remarkable Adventures of General Wadsworth....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 374 Singular Adventures of Sergeant Champe, . . . . . . . . . . . . tº s e º e º e a tº e º ſº tº . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .380 B I 0 G R A P H I C A L S K E T C H E S , Of General Putnam, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * e º 'º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 400 66 “ Heath,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • e s e e s e s w a e s e s e e s e e o e e a e . . . . . . . . . . 411 Ç * Lincoln, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * - e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e º 'º e º e tº e º 'º - - - - © e e º 'º e - e. e. e. e. e. e. e. e. ... . . 414 6% Ç Steuben, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . e - e o 'º e º sº e º 'º e º e e º º $ tº • * 0 e o 'º e º º e º ſº tº & & 4 tº e º e . . . . . . 425 66 ** La Fayette,..............?......................... * º 'º - G - e tº e º e º 'º e º º . 437 {{ €4. Gates,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - * * * * * e e • * * * * * * * * tº e º 'º º sº e º 'º e º ºs º º . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 443 * “ Stark,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 451 6% & Sullivan, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tº e º º º ºs e º 'º e º e & is e º ſº º . . 453 $é * Conway,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... 456 66 * Lee, ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 458 & , $6 Arnold,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 465 Knox,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * tº e º e º e º 'º e º e º e º tº e o e e º & © 477 •=*'）,· ; =S·l ĒŠS*=♠ L'， , ， ，© 2，2% \\\!\，, *=~ Zºº ſºſ Nș Ø@ ºz.ŹŹź- ZZZZZZZºzº） șYZ：22 ſºº，，，，Z2 ŹŹ§§ **** <<. 2，2，…，∞2^2 © N \\ Ņ È 2]], 9. Myy MAJOR GENERAL ISRAEL PUTNAM. MILITARY J 0 U R N A L,~1775, January—AT the precise period when my medical studies and education are completed, under the patronage of Dr. Abner Hersey of Barnstable, and I am contem: plating the commencement of a new career in life, I find our country about to be involved in all the horrors of a civil war. A series of arbitrary and oppressive measures, on the part of the mother-country, has long been advancing to that awful crisis, when an appeal to the power of the sword becomes inevitable. The event of this mighty struggle is to decide an affair of infinite magnitude, not merely as it respects the present generation, but as it will ..affect the welfare and happiness of unborn millions. The great fundamental principle, in the present controversy, is the right which is claimed by the Parliament of Great Britain, to exercise dominion, as the only supreme and uncontrollable legislative power over all the American Colonies. “Can they make laws to bind the colonies in all cases whatever; levy taxes on them without their con- sent; dispose of the revenues, thus raised, without their control; multiply officers at pleasure, and assign them fees, to be paid without, nay, contrary to and in direct Violation of acts of our provincial assemblies, and approved by the crown? Can they enlarge the power of admiralty courts; divert the usual channels of justice; deprive the colonists of trial by a jury of their countrymen; in short, break down the barriers which their forefathers have erected against arbitrary power, and enforce their edicts by fleets and armies?” . Then indeed are we reduced to a state of abject slavery; and all resistance to acts of Par- liament may justly be called by the name of treason and rebellion. “The people of these colonies consider them- Selves as British subjects, entitled to all the rights and privileges of Freemen. It is inseparably essential to the 2 8 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. : freedom of a people, and the undoubted right of English- men, that no taxes be imposed on them but with their own consent, given personally or by their representatives. From their local circumstances, the colonies cannot be represented in the house of commons of Great Britain; the only representatives of the people of the colonies are the persons chosen therein by themselves; and no taxes ever can be constitutionally imposed on them, but by their respective legislatures.” All acts of Parliament therefore, for raising a revenue in America, are considered as de- priving us of our property, without our consent, and con- sequently as a palpable infringement of our ancient rights and privileges. They are unconstitutional and arbitrary laws, subversive of the liberties and privileges secured to us by our royal charters. It is not consistent with the principles which actuate the American people, ever tamely to submit to such a degrading system of government; not, however, from a want of loyalty to our king, nor from an undue impatience of subordination or legal restraint; for in a quiet submission and demeanor to constitutional au- thority, and in zeal and attachment to our king, we dare to vie with any of our fellow-subjects of Great Britain; but it is an innate love of liberty, and our just rights, that impels us to the arduous struggle. In no country, it is asserted, is the love of liberty more deeply rooted, or the knowledge of the rights inherent to freemen more gener- ally diffused, or better understood, than among the British American Colonies. Our religious and political privileges are derived from our virtuous fathers; they were inhaled with our earliest breath; and are, and will I trust ever be, implanted and cherished in the bosom of the present and future generations. These are the prevalent senti- ments in New England at this eventful crisis, and all the other provinces, Georgia excepted, are known to be in unison with us in the resolution, to oppose with all our power every violation of our just rights and privileges. We are not, however, authorized, even in the most glorious of causes, to expect a perfect unanimity among a people. Numerous are the springs of men's actions; and diversity of sentiment and views are characteristic of human nature. Accordingly we find a small minority in our country who are inimical to the common cause, and who are continually MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 9 opposing every proceeding of the majority. These people are doubtless actuated by various motives; a few, com- paratively, influenced by principle; some by a spirit of timidity, or the absurd doctrine of passive obedience and non-resistance; others, from the strength of their passions, and weakness of judgment, are biassed and led astray by designing demagogues. There are, however, those who are vile enough to prostrate all honor and principle with the sordid view of office and preferment: “For ’tis their duty, all the learned think, Tº espouse that cause by which they eat and drink.” Those disaffected individuals, who still adhere to the royal cause, have received the epithet of Tories; the very name is extremely abhorrent to the people in general, and they are subjected to such rigorous discipline as to prevent them from doing injury to the great cause of our country. The great majority of the people are happily united in the resolution to oppose, to the uttermost, the wicked attempts of the English cabinet. This class of people have assumed the appellation of Whigs; but by our enemies are stigmatized by the name of Rebels. If, as we affirm, the British government have ceased to rule agreeably to the principles of our constitution, and our royal charter, and have assumed to themselves the high prerogative of despotic sway, then are we absolved from our allegiance and duties as British subjects. A contract abrogated by one party, can no longer be binding on the other. If we are menaced with royal power and authority, we justify ourselves in defending our indefeasible rights against des- potism and tyrannical oppression. Cowards alone will bend to unjust power, and slaves and sycophants only will yield both soul and body to the disposal of tyrannical masters. Should our efforts, under God, be crowned with the desired success, we shall obtain the honor of rescuing ourselves and posterity from vassalage; but if compelled to succumb under royal power, them will ours be the rebel's fate, the scaffold and the gibbet will be glutted with their devoted victims. We cannot justly be accused of a rash precipitance of proceeding; for petitions and memo- rials, couched in the most loyal and humble language, have been at various periods presented to our royal sovereign, 10 MILITARY JOURNAL, ITT5. and his parliament, praying for a redress of grievances; but they are deaf to all our complaints and supplications, and the coercive arm of power is suspended over us, threatening implacable vengeance. Among the odious acts of the British Parliament they passed one which imposed a duty on the article of tea, and several cargoes of this commodity were shipped to America to obtain the duty and a market. On the arrival of the tea ships at Boston great indignation was excited among the people; town meetings were called to devise some legal measures to prohibit the landing of the odious article. It was universally understood that if the tea was once landed, and stored, it would by some means come to a market, and the duty to the government be secured. In order to defeat this object a number of persons in disguise entered the ships at the wharves, broke open three hun- dred and forty-two chests of tea, and discharged their con- tents into the water at the dock. This was on the 16th December, 1773. When intelligence of this summary proceeding reached England, it was condemned by the government as enormously criminal. They menaced our province with the most exemplary vengeance, and Parlia- ment soon passed the Boston Windictive Port Bill as a part of their coercive system, so that merely the name of tea is now associated with ministerial grievances, and tea drinking is almost tantamount to an open avowal of tory- ism. Those who are anxious to avoid the odious epithet of enemies to their country, strictly prohibit the use of tea in their families, and the most squeamish ladies are com- pelled to have recourse to substitutes, or secretly steal indulgence in their favorite East India beverage. March-For the purpose of enforcing submission to the cruel mandates of the royal government, a réinforcement of the British army has arrived at Boston; and General Gage is appointed Governor and Commander in Chief. An armed fleet also occupies the harbor; and the whole port is closed against all but British vessels. In short, the horrors of civil war seem stalking, with rapid strides, towards our devoted country. The people have resorted to the expedient of abolishing all the courts of justice under the new regulations. . In our shire towns the popu- lace have collected in sufficient numbers to bar the doors MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 11 of the court houses, and prohibit the entrance of judges and officers; the jurors are so intimidated, or zealous in the good cause, that in general they refuse to take the oath, or to act in any manner under the new modification of government; and the clerks of courts, who have issued warrants by which the jurors are summoned, have in many instances been compelled to acknowledge their contrition, and to publish in the newspapers, a full recantation. At the regular term of the Court of Common Pleas at Barn- stable in September last, I witnessed the following prompt procedure. A body of about twelve hundred men assem- bled and obstructed the passage to the court-house door. The leader of this assemblage was Dr. Nathaniel Freeman, a bold son of liberty, of Sandwich. Colonel James Otis, the chief justice of the court, preceded by the sheriff, approached; and the venerable chief justice demanded admission. Dr. Freeman replied that it was the intention of the people to prevent the court's being opened to exer- cise those unconstitutional powers with which they are invested by Parliament. The chief justice, in his majes- ty's name, commanded them to disperse, and permit the court to enter and proceed to business. But his majesty's name had lost its power; it can have no charms with the sons of liberty. The venerable judge then said he had acquitted himself of his duty, and retired. This proceed- ing had been discussed and concerted prior to the court term; and Colonel Otis himself, a stanch whig, was, it is believed, not only apprized of, but actually acquiesced in, this bold measure. This excellent man is now advanced to about seventy-four years in life; he is considered as possessing sound sense and good judgment; and as being of the purest integrity. He has been, for many years, the leading law character in the Old Colony, and a member of his majesty's council of the province; but his patriotism and zeal in the cause of our country have rendered him and his family exceedingly odious to Governor Hutchinson and other adherents of the crown. Colonel Otis is the parent of that great champion, and able advocate for liberty and the rights of man, James Otis, jun. Esq. This gen- tleman is now in a melancholy state of mental derange- ment; and all New England is deploring the irreparable loss of the talents, eloquence, and patriotic services of this 12 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. justly celebrated character. Colonel Otis has two other sons, Joseph and Samuel Allen Otis, who are active whigs; and a daughter, married to James Warren, Esq. of Ply- mouth, who is now President of our provincial Congress. Though no judicial courts are in existence, few crimes are committed; all is peace, order and regularity. The peo- ple are their own rulers, and never was there less need of penal laws. Trivial disputes are mutually adjusted or decided by reference; pecuniary demands are suspended, and the simple recommendations of Congress, and of our committees of safety, receive that cheerful acquiescence which is scornfully denied to the coercive edicts emanating from despotic power. For “Freedom has a thousand charms, to show That slaves, howe'er contented, never know.” We have a provincial Congress in session at Concord, consisting of delegates elected by the people, and also a grand Continental Congress at Philadelphia, composed of characters highly distinguished for political wisdom, rigid patriotism and public virtue. The public indignation is now greatly excited by the following shameful transaction. The people from the country, whose business called them into Boston, were suspected by the officers of purchasing guns from their Soldiers. In order to furnish an opportunity to inflict punishment and to raise occasion for a serious quarrel, Lieutenant Colonel Nesbit of the forty-seventh regiment ordered a soldier to offer a countryman an old rusty mus- ket. A man from Billerica was caught by this bait, and purchased the gun for three dollars. The unfortunate man was immediately seized by Nesbit, and confined in the guard-house, all night. Early next morning they stripped him entirely naked, covered him over with warm tar, and then with feathers, placed him on a cart, and con- ducted him through the streets as far as liberty-tree, where the people began to collect in vast numbers; and the mil- itary, fearing for their own Safety, dismissed the man, and retreated to their barracks. The party consisted of about thirty grenadiers with fixed bayonets, twenty drums and fifes playing the Rogues' March, headed by the redoubta- ble Nesbit with a drawn sword! What an honorable deed MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 13 for a British field officer and grenadiers! The selectmen of Billerica remonstrated with General Gage respecting this outrage, but obtained no satisfaction. April 21st.—Intelligence is now received that the British regulars have marched out of Boston, and actually com- menced hostilities against our people at Lexington. For the purpose of ascertaining the particular facts, I have been desired to wait on Colonel Otis, at his mansion in this town. It was in the evening, when I found this dig- nified patriot in his easy-chair, with several of his neigh- bors listening with agitated spirits to some account of this first most awful tragedy. The good old gentleman had received a letter containing a statement of Some particu- lars, and with manifest trepidation he said to this effect: “The British troops marched to Lexington and Concord last Wednesday, the 19th instant, for the purpose of de- stroying some of our military stores; our militia collected and met them at Lexington; the regulars soon commenced firing on them; our people returned the fire; a smart skirmish ensued, and several men were killed on both sides. The British were compelled to retreat, in some confusion, to Boston; and our people pursued and harassed them. The fearful day has arrived! a civil war has act- ually commenced in our land. We must be prepared for the worst, and may God preserve and protect our country.” This tragical event seems to have electrified all classes of people; the brave are fired with manly resentment, the timid overwhelmed in despair; the patriotic whigs sor- rowing over public calamities, while the tories indulge the secret hope, that the friends of liberty are about to receive their chastisement. The sword is now unsheathed, and our friends are slaughtered by our cruel enemies; expresses are hastening from town to town, in all directions through the country, spreading the melancholy tidings and inspiriting and rousing the people To Arms / To Arms/ The people of New England have taken the alarm, and their hearts are animated even to enthusiasm. There is an enthusiasm in religion, in politics, in military achieve- ments, and in gallantry and love, and why not an enthu- siasm in the love of country? No species of enthusiasm Surely can be more laudable, or more honorable. Never was a cause more just, more sacred than ours; we are 14 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. commanded to defend the rich inheritance bequeathed to us by our virtuous ancestors; and it is our bounden duty to transmit it uncontaminated to posterity; we must fight valiantly therefore, for our lives and property, for our holy religion, for our honor, and for our dearest friends, We are not born to be slaves, and are resolved to live and die free; appealing to the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe for the justice of our cause, and relying on his Almighty arm for protection and support. A certain number of active men, in every town, have formed themselves into military companies, under the name of minute-men; they are daily practising the manual exercise, and are held in constant readiness to march against the enemy at a moment's warn- ing. We await with trembling expectation the issue of every hour. Authenticated accounts are now received of the battle at Lexington. On Tuesday evening, 18th instant, Gen- eral Gage despatched, with as much secrecy as possible, a detachment consisting of eight or nine hundred regulars, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, for the purpose of destroying some military stores which our people had deposited at Concord, about eighteen miles from Boston. Having arrived at Lexington, six miles short of Concord, they were met by a company of militia, of about one hundred men, who, having taken the alarm, began to assemble from different towns before daylight. They were assembled near the church, about sunrise; when the British advanced in quick march to within a few rods, Major Pitcairn called out, “Disperse, you Rebels / throw down your arms and disperse.” Their small number would not admit of opposition, and while they were dispersing, the regulars huzzāed, and immediately one or two pistols were fired by the officers, and four or five muskets by the soldiers; when a pretty general discharge from the whole party followed, by which eight of our people were killed and seven wounded. The British now renewed their march to Concord, where they destroyed a few articles of stores and sixty barrels of flour. Here they were met by about one hundred and fifty militia-men, on whom they fired, and killed two and wounded others. Our militia and minute-men were now collecting in considerable num- bers, and being justly enraged they made a bold and furi- THOMAS JRFFERSON, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 15 ous attack on the enemy, and drove them in quick march to Lexington. General Gage having received intelligence of the critical situation of his troops, immediately ordered out Lord Percy, with a large réinforcement, with two field pieces. He marched over the neck through Roxbury, his music playing by way of contempt and derision the tune of “Yankee doodle.” This timely réinforcement joined the party under command of Colonel Smith at Lexington, which formed a force of about eighteen hundred men. They soon deemed it prudent to commence their march to Boston, the provincial militia and minute-men, contin- ually increasing in numbers, pursued and flanked them with the hope of cutting off their retreat. A constant "skirmishing ensued; the provincials concealed themselves behind stone walls, and with a sure aim thinned their enemies' ranks, and occasioned among them great confu- sion. On their side, they could only keep up a scattering fire, without effect, frequently firing over the stone walls, when there was not a man to be seen behind them. The great object of the British, was to effect a safe retreat to Boston; but, to avenge themselves, they burnt and plun- dered houses, destroyed property, and actually murdered several innocent º persons. The situation of the king's forces was, during the day, extremely hazardous; and it is considered wonderful that any of them escaped. Worn down and almost exhausted with fatigue, and their ammunition nearly expended, they had become nearly defenceless when they reached Charlestown, in the even- ing, after a loss of two hundred and seventy-three men, killed, wounded and prisoners. The loss on the side of the Provincials is eighty-eight in the whole. The British officers have received a specimen of Yankee courage, which they have hitherto affected to hold in the most sovereign contempt; they have ascertained, by fatal experience, that the people of New England will bid defiance to their vet- eran regulars, and fight courageously in defence of their rights. It is truly said to be matter of astonishment and chagrin, that after all their glorying, their veteran troops have been compelled to flee before a comparatively small number of undisciplined Yankees. The origin of this term, so frequently employed by way of reproach to the New England people, is said to be as follows: A farmer, by 16 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775 name Jonathan Hastings, of Cambridge, about the year 1713, used it as a cant, favorite word, to express excellency when applied to any thing; as a Yankee good horse, Yankee cider, &c., meaning an excellent horse and excel- lent cider. The students at college, having frequent inter- course with Mr. Hastings, and hearing him employ the term on all occasions, adopted it themselves, and gave him the name of Yankee Jonathan; this soon became a cant word among the collegians to express a weak, simple, awkward person, and from college it was carried and cir- culated through the country, till, from its currency in New England, it was at length taken up and unjustly applied to the New Englanders in common, as a term of reproach. It was in consequence of this that a particular song, called “Yankee doodle,” was composed in derision of those scornfully called Yankees.” May.—Since the catastrophe at Lexington, our Provin- cial Congress have addressed the several towns of the colony in a circular letter, in the following impressive language: “We conjure you by all that is dear, by all that is Sacred, that you give all assistance possible in forming the army. Our all is at stake. Death and de- vastation are the certain consequences of delay. Every moment is infinitely precious. An hour lost may deluge your country in blood, and entail perpetual slavery on the few of your posterity who may survive the carnage. We beg and entreat, as you will answer it to your country, to your consciences, and, above all, as you will answer it to God himself, that you will hasten and encourage, by all possible means, the enlistment of men to form the army, and send them forward to head-quarters at Cambridge, with that expedition which the vast importance and instant urgency of the affair demands.” It is scarcely possible to describe the zeal and military ardor which pervades New England since the battle at Lexington. It is supposed that nearly forty thousand men have been in arms with the design of investing the town of Boston, and avenging themselves on the enemy * There appears some incongruity in the above definition of the word Yankee. The following is supposed by some to be the origin from which it is derived: “Yankee is the Indian corruption of English. Yenglees, Yangles, Yankles, and finally Yankee.” MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775 17 for their late slaughter of our brethren. The universal voice is “starve them out.” Drive them from the town, and let his majesty's ships be their only place of refuge. Our Provincial Congress have resolved that an army of thirty thousand men be immediately raised and established. A considerable number have already enlisted, and being formed into regiments, have taken their station at Cam- bridge and Roxbury. The country militia, in great num- bers, have arrived from various parts of New England; and the town of Boston is now invested on all sides, and thus is the whole royal army reduced to the humble con- dition of a besieged garrison. The situation of the inhab- itants is deplorable; a considerable proportion of the most affluent have removed into the country; but others, from various circumstances, are compelled to remain and suffer all the calamities of a besieged town and precarious sub- sistence. Instances indeed are not wanting of members of families being torn from each other, women and chil- dren flying from their husbands and parents, under the most afflictive and destitute circumstances. We are now experiencing a singular kind of interreg- num in our province; more than a year has elapsed with- out any legal government, or any regular administration of law and justice.—No crimes, however, of an atrocious nature have, we believe, been perpetrated; all classes of people appear to be submissive, under the influence of the principles of moral rectitude and common justice; and the resolutions and recommendations of Congress have all the weight and efficacy of laws. Our domestic tranquillity is in some measure interrupted by a restless spirit among the tories; but the great body of the community are actu- ated by the glorious cause of our country's freedom. The maxim adopted by our enemies is, “Divide and conquer.” We enjoin the command, “Unite and be invincible.” It is considered infinitely important to encourage and promote a more perfect union among the colonies, and harmony and unanimity among the people. “Liberty or death,” “Unite or die,” are the mottoes which blazon the chronicles of the day, and embellish the military standards of almost every militia company. The man who does not acquiesce in the theme of liberty is marked by the vigilant eye of suspicion, or stigmatized as an enemy to his country. Liberty-poles 18 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. are erected in almost every town and village; and when a disaffected tory renders himself odious, by any active conduct, with the view of counteracting the public meas- ures, he is seized by a company of armed men, and con- ducted to the liberty-pole, under which he is compelled to sign a recantation, and give bonds for his future good conduct. In some instances, of particular stubbornness and obstinacy, individuals have been imprisoned or their names have been published in the newspapers as enemies to their country. It has indeed unfortunately happened, that a few individuals, in consequence of their own indis- cretion, have been the subjects of a more rigorous proce- dure. Having fallen into the hands of those whose zeal has transported them beyond the bounds of moderation, they have received from the rabble a coat of tar and feathers, and in this predicament have been exposed to the scoffs and ridicule of the populace. Such examples have the effect of striking terror into the hearts of all the disaffected, and of restraining the whole party from acting against the general sense of the people. The tories make bitter complaints against the discipline which they receive from the hands of the whigs; their language is, “You make the air resound with the cry of liberty, but subject those who differ from you to the humble condition of slaves, not permitting us to act, or even think, according to the dictates of conscience.” The reply is, “It is one of the first princi- ples of a free government, that the majority shall bear rule; our majority is immensely large; we have undertaken the hazardous task of defending the liberties of our country against the mighty power of Great Britian; and hold our- selves responsible for our conduct. If you possess not pa- triotism and courage enough to unife your efforts with ours, it is our duty to put it out of your power to injure the com- mon cause. If we are successful, your party and posterity will participate in the important advantages to be derived from our efforts. If our party should be crushed, then will yours in turn become triumphant.” A small number of our tories have abandoned their homes, their families and property, and resorted to the standard of their royal master in Boston; consoling themselves in the confident expecta- tion of an ample reward, and a triumphant restoration. The clergymen of New England are, almost without excep- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 19 tion, advocates of whig principles; there are a few instances only of the separation of a minister from his people, in consequence of a disagreement in political sentiment. The tories censure, in a very illiberal manner, the preacher who speaks boldly for the liberties of the people, while they lavish their praises on him who dares to teach the absurd doctrine, that magistrates have a divine right to do wrong, and are to be implicitly obeyed. It is recom- mended by our Provincial Congress, that on other occa- sions than the Sabbath, ministers of parishes adapt their discourses to the times, and explain the nature of civil and religious liberty, and the duties of magistrates and rulers. Accordingly, we have from our pulpits the most fervent and pious effusions to the throne of Divine Grace in behalf of our bleeding, afflicted country. A zealous divine, who has been compelled to abandon the people of his charge in Boston, on one occasion used, in the pulpit at P***, the following emphatical language: “Oh! Lord, if our enemies will fight us, let them have fighting enough. If more sol diers are on their way hither, sink them, O Lord, to the bottom of the sea.” Every heart seemed ready to respond, “Amen, yea, let them have fighting enough.” June 14th.-General Gage has issued a proclamation declaring the province of Massachusetts Bay to be in a state of rebellion, offering a pardon to all who will resort to his standard, and denouncing the penalty of martial law on all those who refuse to submit to his authority, or who shall be found aiding or corresponding with such as he has designated as unpardonable rebels and traitors. He has been pleased to proscribe by name, Mr. John Hancock and Mr. Samuel Adams, as objects of his exemplary ven- geance. Yet, singular at it may appear, this same author- ized governor, and general-in-chief of the royal army, is now cooped up in the town of Boston, panting for a º airing, of which he is debarred by his denounced rebels. We are again shocked by intelligence that a terrible battle has been fought between the British regulars and the American soldiers, on Bunker, or rather Breed's hill, in Charlestown, near Boston, on the 17th instant. The report states that the whole town of Charlestown is burnt to ashes by the enemy, and that Dr. Joseph Warren, lately 20 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. appointed major-general in our army, is killed; and that Several hundreds of our soldiers are killed and wounded. The battle, it is said, was extremely severe and destructive; but the provincial troops displayed the greatest courage and bravery, in the face of the regulars, and have obtained immortal honor. The British were several times defeated before they took possession of our works, and have suf. fered a loss of more than a thousand of their best troops; among whom are a large proportion of their most valua- ble officers. They are now taught that Americans can bid defiance to royal regulars, when called to defend their freedom. The situation of our country is truly deplora- ble, a civil war at our doors; our neighbors, our fathers and brothers, called from their families to encounter an inexorable enemy, consisting indeed of brethren and kin- dred; our domestic peace and welfare cruelly interrupted, and the aspect of our public affairs gloomy in the extreme. All New England has become a theatre of military array; and every member of the community manifests the deepest concern for the great calamities with which the country is afflicted, by the tyrannical measures of a corrupt admin- istration. In the favor of Heaven and the wisdom of our Congress we repose all our hope and confidence. Par- ticipating, I trust, in the glorious spirit of the times, and contemplating improvement in my professional pursuits, motives of patriotism and private interest prompt me to hazard my fortune in this noble conflict with my brethren in the provincial army. From the critical and embarrassed situation of our country, numerous and almost insurmount- able difficulties are opposed to my view; and I am too young to possess a maturity of judgment, but yet unable to resist the impulse of enthusiasm which characterizes the times. My friends afford me no encouragement, alleg- ing that, as this is a civil war, if I should fall into the hands of the British, the gallows will be my fate. The terrors of the gallows are not to be conquered, but I must indulge the hope that I may escape it. Hundreds of my superiors may take their turn before mine shall come. The tories assail me with the following powerful arguments: “Young man, are you sensible you are about to violate your duty to the best of kings, and run headlong into de- Struction? Be assured that this rebellion will be of short MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. * 21 duration. The royal army is all-powerful, and will, in a few months, march through the country and bring all to subjection; for they are experienced in war and expert in discipline. Their fleet is able to destroy every seaport town and beat down all our cities. There remains no rational alternative but a reconciliation and renewed obe- dience to our lawful government; or we shall soon expe- rience their just vengeance. What is your army but an undisciplined rabble? Can they stand against an army of regulars? Where are your cannon, your fire-arms, your bayonets, and all your implements of war? Above all, where is your treasure, and where can you look for a bar- rel of gunpowder? The whole country can scarcely afford a sufficiency for a battle of an hour.” Not a small portion of their reasoning I feel to be just and true. I am not certain, however, but much of it may prove erroneous. The result of the late battle at Charlestown should con- vince the most incredulous tory that our soldiers will face the regular troops, and we are blessed with the smiles of Heaven on our exertions. It would be presumption in me to determine as to possibilities and prospects; but the voice of liberty cannot be stifled, while the welfare and happiness of more than three millions of people now in America, and of unborn millions, are involved in the issue. Our rulers are the most competent judges, and under their banners I shall venture, I hope not rashly, to enlist, and trust my destiny in the hands of a kind and overruling Providence. My contemplated enterprise, it is true, re- quires the experience and resolution of riper years than twenty-one, and qualifications, which I do not possess, to ingratiate myself with strangers and those in authority. Having consulted Joseph Otis, Esq. of Barnstable, on this occasion, he immediately applauded my enterprise, and politely furnished me with a letter to his brother-in-law, James Warren, Esq. of Plymouth, who is President of our Provincial Congress at Watertown. Imagination could not fail to paint my prospects in bright colors, and I proceeded, July the 3d, with alacrity to the seat of Con- gress. I was not disappointed in my interview with Mr. Warren; my letter procured for me a favorable and polite reception. He honored me with his friendship and kind assistance, and introduced me to his lady, whose father's 22 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. family and my own, have for many years been on terms of friendly intercourse. The office which I solicit is one in the medical department, in the provincial hospital at Cambridge. A medical board, consisting of Drs. Holton and Taylor, are appointed to examine the candidates; and they added my name to the list for examination, on the 10th instant. This state of suspense continuing several days, excites in my mind much anxiety and solicitude, apprehending that my stock of medical knowledge, when Scanned by a learned committee, may be deemed inade- quate, and all my hopes be blasted. While on my journey, a visit of a few days to my friends at Plymouth gave me an opportunity to pay my respects to the rock which re- ceived the first footsteps of our venerated forefathers. The inhabitants of this ancient town, from a reverence for the memory of the virtuous band of brothers from whom we derive our origin, have lately, with commend- able zeal and much labor, split off the upper portion of the rock, and removed it to a public square near the church and court-house. This rock, with its associations, would seem almost capable of imparting that love of country, and that moral virtue, which our times so much require. We seem holding converse with the celestial spirits, and receiving monition from those who are at rest in their graves. Have these ancient sages bequeathed their mantle to posterity? Can we set our feet on their rock without swearing, by the spirit of our fathers, to defend it and our country? If we reflect on their matchless enterprise, their fortitude, and their sufferings, we must be inspired with the spirit of patriotism, and the most invincible hero- ism. Unappalled by the dangers of unknown seas, and the perils and the hardships of a savage wilderness, they left their native country, and undertook a settlement which promises, through ages, to remain the rich abode of knowl- edge, religion, virtue and freedom. Let us, then, cherish a becoming sense of the exalted privileges inherited from our ancestors, and resolve to defend them against all at- tempts of a corrupt administration. July.—I improve the interim of my suspense to record an authentic narrative of the battle on Breed's hill, on the 17th of June. Intelligence had been received that it was he intention of General Gage to post a part of his troops, aeſ） – º »№， º * * % |× % ºrz， 7zź// Ź ） % ///////// § → + 2 JOHN IIANCOCK. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 23 within a few days, on a promontory just at the entrance of the peninsula at Charlestown, called Bunker's hill. It was deemed important that our troops should possess them- selves of this eminence, before the enemy could occupy it. Accordingly orders were given to Colonel Prescott, a vet- eran of the last war, with one thousand men, to march silently in the evening of 16th of June, and throw up some intrenchments on the height of Bunker's hill. By some mistake they took possession of Breed's hill, which, being about one-fourth of a mile nearer Boston, was less capable of being defended. From some cause, the detach- ment was always delayed in their labor, till twelve o'clock; but such was their alacrity, that before day-light they had formed a small redoubt and some imperfect line of defence. About four o'clock in the morning the British were aston- ished to behold the works which had been thrown up in a single night, within a short distance of their vessels, without giving the least alarm. They immediately com- menced a tremendous cannonade from their shipping, their floating batteries, and from all their fortifications, which could have a bearing on the American works. Bombs and shot were incessantly rolling among the provincials during the forenoon, till the royal grenadiers and light in- fantry could be prepared to make their formidable attack; yet one man only was killed; and the Americans cour- ageously persevered in strengthening their works. They received in the course of the forenoon a small réinforce- ment, which augmented their number.to about fifteen hun- dred, and this was not much exceeded during the day of battle. It was by an unaccountable error that those people, who had been laboring all the night, were not relieved by others, nor even furnished with provisions before the battle. Generals Putnam, Warren and Pomeroy, animated and encouraged the troops with their presence. At about one o'clock, 17th of June, the royal forces were observed to cross the river from Boston, and land on the shore at Charlestown; at the head of these veterans were Major- General Howe and Brigadier-General Pigot; their force consisted of about three thousand men, well provided with field-artillery. They formed in two lines, their officers ha- ranguing them probably in such language as this: “Those cowardly rebels must and shall be put to flight. See the 3 24 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. dastardly Yankees with rusty guns and scarcely a bayonet among them. March on, my lads, march on! show them that you are Britons; show them these dazzling arms and bayonets bright and sharp, and you shall soon see them take to their heels and run.” Hear the voice of Putnam, of Prescott and Warren: “See, my brave soldiers, that phalanx approaching; these lines must and shall be de- fênded; these are the cruel enemies to your freedom; they have come to enslave you; remember their barbarous mur- ders of our friends at Lexington; fight manfully, and they shall be vanquished; reserve your fire till their near approach; then with a sure aim cut them down, and the victory shall be ours.” The regulars deliberately advance to the attack, the grenadiers in front. The Americans reserve their fire till the enemy are within eight or ten rods, that they may do effectual execution; when, by a general discharge of musketry and field-artillery, several officers and men are seen to fall, “their ranks are thinned; See the ground covered with the slain; see those wounded officers borne off the field.” The conflict becomes close, and such are the fatal effects of the incessant and furious discharge of our musketry, that the regulars retreat in disorder, and many of them flee even to their boats. The officers, greatly agitated, pursue their men, and threaten them with their swords; with great difficulty they are rallied, and commanded to advance again to the attack. The provincials are prepared, and when sufficiently near, a deadly fire from their ranks puts the enemy a second time to flight, leaving such numbers of dead and wounded that several of their officers exclaim, “It is downright butchery to lead the men on afresh against the lines.” At this critical moment Major-General Clinton, who till now had been a spectator with General Burgoyne on Copp's hill in Boston, passed over and entered the field, just in time to unite his efforts with those of the other officers for the purpose of forcing the regulars to renew the attack. The Americans still remain firm and courageous at their posts; but unfortunately it was now discovered that their powder was nearly expended, and another supply could not be procured. The enemy now change the position of their cannon, and place them in a situation to rake the inside of our breastwork in its whole course, which at length MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 25 obliges the provincials to retire within their little redoubt. The firing from the British ships, and other armed vessels and batteries, is now pushed to the utmost extremity; the regulars are iº forward by their officers, and our redoubt is attacked on three sides at the same time. Our brave men continue their resistance, and actually confront the enemy with the butt-end of their muskets after they had entered the fort. A party of our men under command of Captain Knowlton had taken up a post and rail fence, and placing it against another, filled the vacancy with newly mowed hay, which served as a slight defence. The British light infantry attempted to force this little party from their stand, and by this means to cut off the retreat of our troops. In this they displayed the greatest bravery, but their opposers poured forth their reserved and formi- dable fire in such a manner as to produce astonishing execution, and to arrest their progress, till the whole of the Americans could effect a retreat. The narrow neck of land over which alone the provincials could retire, was so securely guarded by a man of war and two floating batteries, as to render it extremely hazardous to pass over; but notwithstanding their incessant firing, our loss there was quite inconsiderable. The provincials were obliged to leave five pieces of field-artillery in the hands of the enemy, finding it impossible to remove them. But a loss infinitely to be lamented, and which occasions universal grief and sorrow, is that of Major-General Joseph War- ren. This distinguished patriot and hero was, but a few days before, appointed by Congress to the rank of major- general in our army. Such was his zeal and ardor, that he rushed into the battle foremost in danger with his musket, and encouraged the soldiers by his example, till near the close of the battle, when he received a fatal shot, and immediately expired. The loss at this crisis of a man possessing so much public virtue and military ardor is almost irreparable. But the valor with which he is signalized reflects glory on his memory. It yet remains to mention that on this ever-memorable day, just at the Commencement of the battle, General Howe ordered the handsome town of Charlestown to be set on fire, that the smoke might conceal their manoeuvres. The town con- Sisted of upwards of three hundred dwelling-houses, some 26 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. of them elegant, and about two hundred buildings of other descriptions, which contained property and goods to a large amount, belonging to the distressed inhabitants of Boston. Fire was communicated to a number of houses, which, being wafted by the wind, soon reached the sacred temple, when the flames issued from its lofty spire; while from the conflagration and the embattled field, smoke mingled with smoke in majestic columns, and ascended to the clouds. This, with the roaring of cannon, sheets of fire from the musketry, and the awful slaughter, formed a spectacle which for sublimity and grandeur has never perhaps been exceeded. This most dreadful scene, with all its concomitant horrors, was within view of a vast con- course of agonized spectators, posted on the tops of houses and steeples in Boston, and on numerous surrounding hills, hundreds of whom were trembling for the fate of a parent, a husband or a brother. Well might a devout person exclaim, “Good Heavens! what a scene do I behold! what carnage of the human race! what sacrifice of precious life. My God! stay thy hand, restrain a further effusion of human blood, spare the innocent, let punishment fall on the heads of the guilty. Is there not some hidden curse in reserve for our country's foes!” At the head of the British army General Howe advanced with undaunted bravery, continually pressing into the most exposed situa- tion. It is truly wonderful that he escaped with only a wound in his foot. The valiant Major Pitcairn, who was so conspicuously active at Lexington, was among the first who mounted our breastworks, and at the moment when he was heard to exclaim, “the day is ours,” the fatal ball pierced his body and he fell. His son, a captain, received him in his arms, with all the ardor of filial love and tender sympathy, and bore him to the boat, where he expired. On the American side, Generals Putnam, Warren, Pom- eroy, and Colonel Prescott were emphatically the heroes of the day, and their unexampled efforts were crowned with glory. The incomparable Colonel Prescott marched at the head of the detachment, and though several general officers were present, he retained the command during the action. He displayed a native daring bravery altogether unrivalled, and infused the conquering spirit of a soldier into the hearts of all who were under his command, and MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 27 crowned himself with immortal honor. Colonel John Stark commanded a regiment from New Hampshire, and signalized himself by his active bravery. His very valiant Major McClary was killed by a cannon-ball while récross- ing Charlestown neck, which is lamented as a public loss. On this never-tó-be-forgotten occasion a fair opportunity was presented for the trial of the courage and prowess of the people of New England, when contending for their constitutional freedom. They marched to the field as an undisciplined, inexperienced body of yeomanry, rather than as professed warriors; a large majority of them carry- ing ordinary fire-arms, unprovided with bayonets, and habited in the style of country laborers. It was their lot to contend with an army of disciplined veterans, profess- edly experienced in the art of warfare, uniformly clothed and armed, and commanded by generals whose names, even in Europe, are little less than a host. The comparative force of the two armies was about two to one against the provincials, besides the royal artillery, ships, and other armed vessels. What in fact is the result of this most unequal combat? Certain it is, that on the first and the second onset, the veterans were fairly repulsed, and whatever advantage was ultimately obtained, was at the expense of some of their most valuable officers and the flower of the British grenadiers and light infantry. These two corps, at the moment of their first onset, lost three-fourths of their number; of one company five, and of another, fourteen only escaped. The remarkable dis- parity of loss is a clear demonstration of the superior advantage on our side. It is an ascertained fact, that of the enemy nineteen commissioned officers were killed and Seventy wounded; and their total loss, according to Gen- eral Gage, was one thousand and fifty-four. Of the pro- Vincials, the killed and dead of their wounds, are one hundred and thirty-nine. Other wounded, two hundred and seventy-eight. Prisoners by the enemy, thirty-six. Total, four hundred and fifty-three. The provincials have much reason to triumph on the successful issue of this first general conflict with veteran troops; it must tend greatly to increase their confidence in their own powers, and give them a serious impression that we are favored with the smiles of Heaven. Had our troops been furnished 28 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. with a sufficient quantity of ammunition, the enemy must have suffered a total defeat. After our troops retreated, the regulars took possession of their dear-bought Bunker's hill, and immediately fortified themselves there. It is said that some of the veteran British officers, who have been in some hard-fought battles in Europe, observed, that they had never witnessed any one equal in severity to that on Breed's hill. It is presumed they will no longer apply the term poltroons to American soldiers. A considerable number of tories, whose zeal for the royal cause led them into battle, were killed or wounded. Our army has taken post at Cambridge and Roxbury, in such a manner as to invest the town of Boston. Our general officers are Gen- erals Ward, Pomeroy, Thomas and Heath, of Massachu- setts colony, and General Putnam from Connecticut. On the day appointed, the medical candidates, sixteen in number, were summoned before the board for examin- ation. This business occupied about four hours; the sub- jects were anatomy, physiology, surgery and medicine. It was not long after, that I was happily relieved from suspense, by receiving the sanction and acceptance of the board, with some acceptable instructions relative to the faithful discharge of duty, and the humane treatment of those soldiers who may have the misfortune to require my assistance. . Six of our number were privately rejected as being found unqualified. The examination was in a considerable degree close and severe, which occasioned not a little agitation in our ranks. But it was on another g wº, G te e occasion, as I am told, that a Gandidate under examination was agitated into a state of perspiration, and being required to describe the mode of treatment in rheumatism, among other remedies he would promote a sweat, and being asked how he would effect this with his patient, after some hes- itation he replied, “I would have him examined by a medical committee.” I was so fortunate as to obtain the office of surgeon's mate in the provincial hospital at Cam- bridge, Dr. John Warren being the senior surgeon. He was the brother and pupil of the gallant General Joseph Warren, who was slain in the memorable battle on Breed's hill. This gentleman has acquired great reputation in his profession, and is distinguished for his humanity and at- tention to the sick and wounded Soldiers, and for his \\ & \\ è '.Ņ , '.','\ ， \ " ，\\\\\\ ·^^^^^^ !- \, +, ·）*· * ·y•（）\ « …’‘.（Y- ·\, , ,·* - -* º ',**‘ , , \\ \\ \, D – （） sº a - ;- - º Z 2 ºa e 22 ZIZ % ZA ſf/Z, Z ſi 4 º , i × × × × × ^ <~:：~~ ' .-×;* -';';！ - ） -\!!ºſſ &. （* ~ ~ · 24 ×}*…*- * » º « ~ ~ ~ ~ : ~ .§§-« * * … *）*）*-- T ~ .§ 3， …• • • • • • • • • • •, * · * · · * , ， .*）^*® ：§§38）, N （S.）（' '_' ） ） *（'<' . . ~ -.* §§§````````，``S`， è §§§）±（√¶√≠≤≥ §§：（$ğ) ·\}%% Þ // ºgy, ~~~~）;... --~. ~~~~ ~~~~ N`````§`& *.•`s,~N §· ，*.*¿¿.* §§§ .§§ №.§§§ššºs- s ºs````````№ ¿№s’ （``:， … （ SÌS（№N, ••`~~ º ¿№v -SSSºś \ \\ As MW Sº ‘. %2, \º . N. - W gº §§ Sº gº º § . . sº \ % غ § § * * § w % "w. . º-º: - º § s- -* º s § S S. § N § §§ s s § 'S s CAPTAIN BENJAMIN CHURCli. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 31 The Continental Congress having voted, “That a sum not exceeding two millions of Spanish milled dollars be emitted by them in bills of credit for the defence of Amer- ica,” gold and silver soon disappeared, and paper bills now circulate instead of specie. Several companies of riflemen, amounting, it is said, to more than fourteen hundred men, have arrived here from Pennsylvania and Maryland; a distance of from five hun- dred to seven hundred miles. They are remarkably stout and hardy men; many of them exceeding six feet in height. They are dressed in white frocks, or rifle-shirts, and round hats. These men are remarkable for the accu- racy of their aim; striking a mark with great certainty at two hundred yards distance. At a review, a company of them, while on a quick advance, fired their balls into objects of seven inches diameter, at the distance of two hundred and fifty yards. They are now stationed on our lines, and their shot have frequently proved fatal to British officers and soldiers who expose themselves to view, even at more than double the distance of common musket-shot. October.—An event of considerable importance has oc- curred, which occasions much surprise and speculation. Dr. Benjamin Church has long sustained high reputation as a patriot and son of liberty. He has, for some time, been a member of our House of Representatives; and has been appointed surgeon-general and director of our hos- pitals. This gentleman has just been detected in a trait- orous correspondence with the enemy in Boston. A letter in cipher, written by him, was intrusted to the care of a female, with whom he was well acquainted, to be conveyed to Boston. On examination, the woman absolutely refused to reveal the name of the writer, till she was terrified by the threats of severe punishment; when she named Dr. Church, he was greatly agitated and confounded, manifested marks of guilt, and made no attempt to vindicate himself. But after the letter was deciphered, and he had taken time to reflect, he used all his powers of persuasion to make it appear that the letter contained no information that would injure the American cause; and made a solemn appeal to Heaven that it was written for the purpose of procuring Some important intelligence from the enemy. He was tried, convicted, and expelled from the House of Repre- 32 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. sentatives; and Congress afterwards resolved, “that he be closely confined in some secure jail in Connecticut, without the use of pen, ink, or paper; and that no person be allowed to converse with him, except in the presence and hearing of a magistrate, or the sheriff of the county.” I have just returned from a ramble to Roxbury, with a view of examining the camp and works in that quarter. Not meeting with any person with whom I am acquainted, I returned after a slight view of the lines and the church in that town, which is pierced through in many places by cannon-shot from the enemy. 10th.-General Gage has sailed for England; and the command of the army, has devolved on General William Howe. He has issued a proclamation, prohibiting all persons attempting to quit the town, without a written license, on penalty of military execution, if taken, and if they escape they are to be proceeded against as traitors, and their effects to be forfeited; and also declaring, that if any, who are licensed to depart, attempt carrying away more than five pounds in specie, they shall forfeit the whole sum discovered, beside suffering fine and imprison- ment. Such is the wretched condition of the Bostonians since their native town has been converted into a royal garrison. It is recollected that in April last, it was agreed between General Gage and a committee of the town, that On the inhabitants in general surrendering up their fire- arms to the care of the selectmen, all such inhabitants as were desirous of removing out of town, should have this liberty, with their families and effects. The town voted to comply with this proposal, and General Gage on his part confirmed the same. It was also stipulated, that those persons in the country who should incline to remove into Boston should be permitted to change their residence with- out molestation. The fire-arms were accordingly surren- dered, and some of the inhabitants were allowed to depart; but it was not long before General Gage found various pretences to violate his stipulation, and prohibited any further removals; in consequence of which, many families were compelled to a cruel separation; husbands and wives, * Dr. Church was finally permitted to depart from the country. He and his family embarked for the West Indies; the vessel foundered at sea, and all were lost. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. 33 parents and children, were separated, and the aged and infirm left without protection. The term for which the continental soldiers enlisted will expire in a few weeks, and it is understood that the re- cruits for a future army will be enlisted to serve to the 1st of December next, unless sooner discharged, as hopes are yet entertained that a settlement of our difficulties with Great Britain may be effected. Reports are in circulation that an attack on the town of Boston is contemplated; or, that the plan has been agitated and is relinquished, till our people can pass over on the ice. The public appear to be impatient to have our inveterate enemies expelled from our territories. November—Our hospitals are considerably crowded with sick soldiers from camp; the prevailing diseases are au- tumnal fevers and dysenteric complaints, which have i. fatal in a considerable number of instances. It is ighly gratifying to observe, that these brave men, while in the service of their country, receive in sickness all the kind attention from physicians and nurses, which their circumstances require; they have the prayers and conso- lations of pious clergymen, and are destitute of nothing but the presence of their dearest friends to alleviate their sufferings. I am sorry to have occasion to notice in my journal the following occurrence. The body of a soldier has been taken from the grave, for the purpose, probably of dis- section, and the empty coffin left exposed. This affair occasions considerable excitement among our people; both resentment and grief are manifested; as it seems to impress the idea that a soldier's body is held in no estimation after death. Such a practice, if countenanced, might be attended with serious consequences as it respects our soldiers. Much inquiry has been made, but without success, for the discovery of the persons concerned; and the practice in future is strictly prohibited by the commander-in-chief. The joyful intelligence is now announced in the public papers, that Captain Manly, of Marblehead, commander of one of our privateers, has captured an English ship, bound to Boston, loaded with ordnance stores, of immense Value at the present time. Among the ordnance is a large brass mortar on a new construction, and a number 34 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1775. of pieces of fine brass cannon. There are small arms, ammunition, utensils, &c. &c. in great abundance. An invoice, it is said, could scarcely be formed of articles better suited to our wants and circumstances. Several other store vessels have been taken by our privateers, with car- goes of provision and various kinds of stores, to a very considerable amount, which greatly augments the dis- tresses of the troops and people in Boston, and affords us a very opportune and essential supply. It is now repre- sented that the distresses of the inhabitants and troops in Boston exceed the possibility of description. They are almost in a state of starvation, for the want of food and fuel. The inhabitants, totally destitute of vegetables, flour and fresh provisions, have actually been obliged to feed on horse flesh; and the troops confined to salt pro- visions; by means of which they have become very sickly. They have taken down a number of houses, removed the pews from the church, and are digging up the timber at the wharves for fuel. December 26.-I visited the park of artillery, and was much gratified to find a collection of ordnance far exceed- ing my expectations, and such as is supposed by some to be adequate to our present exigence. I had a view of the large brass mortar taken by Captain Manly; it is now called the Congress, and will soon be prepared to speak in strong terms to its former masters. 4th.-A considerable number of Connecticut troops have left our service and returned home; no persuasion could induce them to continue in service after their time of en- listment had expired. Enlisting officers are distributed in various parts of New England; but it is reported that voluntary enlistments go on slowly. The people seem to be unwilling to engage in the public service, and require higher wages. The spirit of patriotism appears in some degree to have subsided, and the militia are to be employed. 11th.-A party of militia, said to be about two thousand, have arrived in camp; and information is received that three thousand more are on their march. A few enlisted soldiers have arrived; but so destitute are they of fire- arms, that it has been found necessary to take the arms by force from the soldiers who retire, paying for them, in order to supply the recruits. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 35 18th.-The Americans have advanced and broken ground at Lechmere's Point, within half a mile of Boston; which occasioned a severe cannonade from the enemy; but they persevered in their work, and suffered but an inconsidera- ble loss. It is stated, from the minutes of some person, that from Breed's hill battle to the 25th instant, the British have thrown upwards of two thousand shot and shells. By the whole firing, on Cambridge side, they killed only seven, and on Roxbury side five, just a dozen in the whole. At this rate, how many shot and bombs will it require to subdue the whole of his majesty's rebellious subjects? January, 1776.-At the close of the last year, as is now reported, our army was reduced to a very critical situation, being obliged to substitute new-raised troops and militia in the place of those who had been in service five or six months; and this exchange was made within musket-shot of the enemy's lines. During part of this period, our numbers were not sufficient to man the lines, nor was there powder enough in camp to furnish four rounds a man. Before our privateers had fortunately captured Some prizes with cannon and other ordnance, our army before Boston had, I believe, only four small brass cannon and a few old honey-comb iron pieces with their trunnions broken off; and these were ingeniously bedded in timbers in the same manner as that of stocking a musket. These machines were extremely unwieldy and inconvenient, requiring much skill and labor to elevate and depress them. Had the enemy been made acquainted with our situation, the consequences might have been exceedingly distressing. 25th.-The newspapers announce the most painful in- telligence from our army in Canada. General Montgom- ery, the commander, made a desperate, but unsuccessful, assault on the city of Quebec, on the 31st ultimo. The event has proved most fatal and disastrous. General Montgomery and his aid-de-camp, with several other officers, were slain. Colonel Arnold, the second in com- mand, heroically passed the first barrier with his small party, and received a wound in his leg. About three hundred of the continental troops were made prisoners, and about sixty killed and wounded. We remain unac- quainted with further particulars. The death of General 36 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. Montgomery is universally deplored. In the public papers we have the following account of this brave officer. “He was a captain of grenadiers in the 17th regiment of British troops, of which General Monckton was colonel. He served the last war in the expeditions in the West Indies and America, and returned with his regiment to England. In 1772 he quitted his regiment, though in a fair way of preferment. Whilst in America he imbibed an affection for this country—he had, while in the king's service, de- clared his disapprobation of the sentiments of the ministry, and viewed America as the rising seat of arts and freedom.” February 9th.-A very considerable firing was heard last evening from Boston; it was occasioned by a detach. ment of one hundred men, under the command of Major Knowlton, who made an incursion into Charlestown, for the purpose of burning a number of houses, to deprive the enemy of their use. He effected the object of his expedition by burning about ten houses in the possession of the enemy, and returned in less than two hours, bringing off Some muskets, without the loss of a single man either killed or wounded. º 14th-The following anecdote is worth notice; it ap- pears by extracts from letters written by the officers who are the subjects of it. Some British officers, soon after General Gage arrived at Boston, while walking on Beacon hill in the evening, were frightened by noises in the air, which they took to be the whizzing of bullets. They left the hill with great precipitation, and reported that they were shot at with air-guns, and wrote frightful accounts of the affair to their friends in England. The whizzing noise which so alarmed these valiant officers, could be no other than the buzzing of bugs and beetles while flying in the air. 16th.-It might be supposed that the melancholy aspect of the times, and the dreadful disappointments and priva- tions of the British officers and tories in Boston, would afford matter for the most serious consideration, and effect- ually check every emotion bordering on levity and amuse- ment. We find, however, that they do not deny them- selves balls and theatrical amusements, for they say in the language of the poet, “What need of piping for the songs and sherry, When our own mis’ries can make us merry.” MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 37 It is asserted from Boston, that on the evening when Major Knowlton set fire to the houses in Charlestown, 8th instant, the farce of “The Blockade of Boston,” of which General Burgoyne is the reputed author, was to be per- formed. The figure designed to burlesque General Wash- ington was dressed in an uncouth style, with a large wig and long rusty sword, attended by his orderly-sergeant in his country dress, having on his shoulder an old rusty gun, seven or eight feet long. At the moment this figure appeared on the stage, one of the regular Sergeants came running on the stage, threw down his bayonet, and exclaimed, “The Yankees are attacking our works on Bunker's hill.” Those of the audience who were unac- quainted with the different parts, supposed that this be- longed to the farce; but when General Howe called out, Officers to your alarm posts, they were undeceived; all was confusion and dismay; and among the ladies, shrieking and fainting ensued. How pure the satisfaction to a great mind employed in burlesquing those Yankees by whom they are besieged! 18th.--Dr. John Morgan of Philadelphia is appointed by Congress director-general of our hospitals, instead of Dr. Church, removed. Since his arrival here, a new and systematic arrangement in the medical department has taken place; the number of surgeon's mates in the hospital is to be reduced, and vacancies in regiments are to be sup- plied. I have been subjected to another examination by Dr. Morgan, and received from him the appointment of surgeon's mate to Dr. David Townsend, in the regiment commanded by Colonel Asa Whitcomb, stationed in the barracks on Prospect hill. 22d−Our regiment, according to orders, marched to Roxbury, and took quarters in the large and elegant house formerly belonging to Governor Shirley. Great preparations are making in our army for some important event. Several regiments of militia have arrived from the Country; and orders have been received for surgeons and mates to prepare lint and bandages, to the amount of two thousand, for fractured limbs and other gun-shot wounds. It is, however, to be hoped that not one-quarter of the number will be required, whatever may be the nature of the occasion. Great activity and animation are observed 38 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. among our officers and soldiers, who manifest an anxious desire to have a conflict with the enemy. Either a gen- eral assault on the town of Boston, or the erection of . works on the heights of Dorchester, or both, is generally supposed to be in contemplation. March 2d.-A very heavy discharge of cannon and mortars commenced from all our works at Cambridge and Roxbury. 3d-The firing from our works continues, but the great brass mortar, the Congress, and two others, have unfortu- nately burst; which is exceedingly regretted. 4th.-The object in view is now generally understood to be the occupying and fortifying of the advantageous heights of Dorchester. A detachment of our troops is ordered to march for this purpose this evening; and our regiment, with several others, has received orders to march at four o'clock in the morning, to relieve them. We are favored with a full bright moon, and the night is remark- ably mild and pleasant; the preparations are immense; more than three hundred loaded carts are in motion. By the great exertions of General Mifflin, our quarter-master- general, the requisite number of teams has been procured. The covering party of eight hundred men advance in front. Then follow the carts with the intrenching tools; after which, the working party of twelve hundred, commanded by General Thomas, of Kingston. Next in the martial procession are a train of carts, loaded with fascines and hay, screwed into large bundles of seven or eight hundred weight. The whole procession moved on in solemn silence, and with perfect order and regularity; while the continued roar of cannon serves to engage the attention and divert the enemy from the main object. 5th.-At about four o'clock our regiment followed to the heights of Dorchester, as a relief party. On passing Dorchester neck I observed a vast number of large bun- dles of screwed hay, arranged in a line next the enemy, to protect our troops from a raking fire, to which we should have been greatly exposed, while passing and répassing. The carts were still in motion with materials; some of them have made three or four trips. On the heights we found two forts in considerable forwardness, and sufficient for a defence against Small arms and grape-shot. The MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 39 amount of labor performed during the night, considering the earth is frozen eighteen inches deep, is almost incred- ible. The enemy having discovered our works in the morning, commenced a tremendous cannonade from the forts in Boston, and from their shipping in the harbor. Cannon-shot are continually rolling and rebounding over the hill; and it is astonishing to observe how little our soldiers are terrified by them. During the forenoon we were in momentary expectation of witnessing an awful scene; nothing less than the carnage of Breed's hill battle was expected. The royal troops are perceived to be in motion, as if embarking to pass the harbor, and land on Dorchester shore, to attack our works. The hills and elevations in this vicinity are covered with spectators to witness deeds of horror in the expected conflict. His Excellency General Washington is present, animating and encouraging the soldiers, and they in return manifest their joy, and express a warm desire for the approach of the enemy; each man knows his place, and is resolute to ex- ecute his duty. Our breastworks are strengthened, and among the means of defence are a great number of bar- rels, filled with stones and sand, arranged in front of our works; which are to be put in motion and made to roll down the hill, to break the ranks and legs of the assailants as they advance. These are the preparations for blood and slaughter. Gracious God! if it be determined in thy Provi- dence that thousands of our fellow-creatures shall this day be slain, let thy wrath be appeased, and in mercy grant that victory be on the side of our suffering, bleeding country! The anxious day has closed, and the enemy has failed to molest us. From appearances, however, there are strong reasons to suppose that they have only postponed their meditated work till another day. It is presumed that the martial fire, which has been enkindled in the breasts of our soldiery, will not be extinguished during the night, and that they will not rest quietly under their disappoint- ment. Early in the morning of the 6th, our regiment was relieved from its tour of duty, and I bade adieu to Dor- chester heights, without being called to dress a single wound. Not more than two or three men were killed or wounded during the twenty-four hours. Some of the British tºps were seen to embark, and pass down towards - 40 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. * the castle last evening, to be in readiness, it was supposed, in conjunction with others, to attack our works this morn- ing; but a most violent storm came on in the night, and still continuing, obliges General Howe to abandon his enterprise, and thus has a kind Providence seen fit to frustrate a design, which must have been attended with immense slaughter and bloodshed. General Howe must now be sensible of his exposed situation, and be convinced of the immediate necessity of evacuating the town of Bos- ton, if he would prevent the sacrifice of his fleet and army. 7th.-There are strong indications in Boston that the king's troops are preparing to evacuate the town; and that no attempt will be made to dispossess our people of the works which we have constructed on Dorchester heights. 8th.-A flag of truce has come out of Boston with a message from the selectmen; acquainting General Wash- ington that General Howe has come to the determination to evacuate the town; and that he would leave it standing, provided his army should be permitted to retire without being molested. At the same time intimating, as is re- ported, that in case he should be attacked by our army, the town should be set on fire in different places, in order to secure his retreat. We are unacquainted with the de- termination of his excellency respecting this proposition; * but it is well known that he has been in favor of making an attack on the town; and that the necessary preparations were made, and the plan arranged, to be put in execution in the event of the enemy's meditated attack on our works at Dorchester heights. Four thousand troops, the first division commanded by General Sullivan, the second by . General Greene, were ordered to be in readiness, and in case the enemy had advanced and been defeated on the heights of Dorchester, this force, at a given signal, was to have rushed into the town and taken possession. It is credibly reported from Boston, that on the morning when the British officers discovered our newly-erected works, which, on account of a fog, loomed to great advan- tage, and appeared larger than the reality, General Howe, on viewing them, was heard to say in astonishment, “I know not what I shall do: the rebels have done more in one night than my whole army would have done in weeks.” His admiral soon assured him that if the rebels were per- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 41 mitted to hold possession, he should not be able to keep a single ship in the harbor in safety. - Nothing of consequence occurred to observation till Sunday morning, March 17th, when at an early hour it was perceived that the royal army commenced their em- barkation on board of transports. In the course of the forenoon we enjoyed the unspeakable satisfaction of be- holding their whole fleet under sail, wafting from our shores the dreadful scourge of war. It was in the power of the provincials by a cannonade to have annoyed the enemy's shipping and transports as they passed Dorchester heights, and to have occasioned great embarrassment and destruction among them; but no orders were given for this purpose, and they were suffered to pass unmolested. By this event we are happily relieved of a force consisting of seven thousand five hundred and seventy-five regulars, exclusive of the staff, which, with the marines and sailors, may be estimated at about ten thousand in the whole. This force greatly exceeds the five regiments with which General Grant vauntingly boasted in England that he could march successfully from one end of the American conti- nent to the other. A considerable number of tories, who had joined the royal standard, took passage with their families on board of the transports with the army, and bade adieu to their native country, without knowing what part of the world is to be their destiny. Immediately after the enemy sailed from Boston harbor, General Washington ordered the major part of his army to march to New York, to secure that city against the apprehended invasion of General Howe. It was not till Wednesday, the 20th, that our troops were permitted to enter the town, when our regiment, with two or three others, were ordered to march in, and take up our quarters, which were provided for us in comfortable houses. While marching through the streets, the inhabitants appeared at their doors and windows; though they manifested a lively joy on being liberated from a long imprisonment, they were not altogether free from a melancholy gloom which ten tedious months' siege has spread over their countenances. The streets and buildings present a scene which reflects disgrace on their late occupants, exhibiting a deplorable desolation and wretchedness. 42 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 22d−A concourse of people from the country are crowding into town, full of friendly solicitude, and it is truly interesting to witness the tender interviews and fond embraces of those who have been long separated, under circumstances so peculiarly distressing. But it is particu- larly unfortunate on this occasion, that the small-pox is lurking in various parts of the town; which deters many from enjoying an interview with their friends. The pa- rents and sister of my friend Dr. Townsend have continued in town during the siege; being introduced to the family by the Doctor, I received a kind and polite invitation to take up my abode with them, where I am enjoying the kindest attentions and civilities. I accompanied several gentlemen to view the British fortifications on Roxbury neck, where I observed a prodigious number of little mil- itary engines called caltrops, or crow-feet, scattered over the ground in the vicinity of the works to impede the march of our troops in case of an attack: The implement consists of an iron ball armed with four sharp points about one inch in length, so formed that which way soever it may fall one point still lies upwards to pierce the feet of horses or men, and are admirably well calculated to obstruct the march of an enemy. 23d.—I went to view the Old South Church, a spacious brick building near the centre of the town. It has been for more than a century consecrated to the Service of religion, and many eminent divines have in its pulpit labored in teaching the ways of righteousness and truth. But during the late siege the inside of it was entirely destroyed by the British, and the sacred building occupied as a riding-school for Burgoyne's regiment of dragoons. The pulpit and pews were removed, the floor covered with earth, and used for the purpose of training and exercising their horses. A beautiful pew, ornamented with carved work and silk furniture, was demolished; and by Order of an officer, the carved work, it is said, was used as a fence for a hog-sty. . The North Church, a very valuable building, was entirely demolished, and consumed for fuel. Thus are our houses, devoted to religious worship, pro- faned and destroyed by the subjects of his royal majesty. His excellency the commander-in-chief has been received by the inhabitants with every mark of respect and grati- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 43 tude; and a public dinner has been provided for him. He requested the Rev. Dr. Eliot, at the renewal of his custom- ary Thursday Lecture, to preach a thanksgiving sermon, adapted to the joyful occasion. Accordingly on the 28th, this pious divine preached an appropriate discourse from Isaiah xxxiii. 20, in presence of his excellency and a re- spectable audience. 29th.-The Massachusetts House of Representatives and Council presented his excellency a respectful and affec- tionate address; and received from him a reply no less respectful and satisfactory. One of our soldiers found a human skeleton in complete preparation, left by a British surgeon, which I have re- ceived as an acceptable present. April 8th.-I attended at the Stone Chapel, where were performed the funeral solemnities over the remains of that patriot and hero Major-General Joseph Warren. The re- mains were taken from the earth at Breed's hill, placed in an elegant coffin, and brought into the chapel, where, in the presence of a numerous assembly, a eulogy was pronounced by Perez Morton, Esq., a young lawyer of abilities. The ceremony was conducted by the society of Free Masons, of which the deceased was grand master. A grand procession was formed, and the remains having received the customary masonic honors, were deposited in the vault under the chapel. This proceeding was to me a pleasing novelty, and in the view of the public, a grateful tribute to the memory of a beloved fellow-citizen. “Let laurels, drench'd in pure Parnassian dews, Reward his mem'ry, dear to every muse, Who, with a courage of unshaken root, In honor's field advancing his firm foot, Plants it upon the line that justice draws, And will prevail or perish in her cause. 'Tis to the virtues of such men man owes His portion in the good that Heaven bestows. ...And when recording History displays Feats of renown, though wrought in ancient days; Tells of a few stout hearts, that fought and die Where duty placed them, at their country's side; The man that is not moved with what he reads, That takes not fire at their heroic deeds, Unworthy of the blessings of the brave, Is base in kind, and born to be a slave.”—CowPEP. * 44 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. | *†: May.—As the small-pox is in many parts of the town among both the inhabitants and soldiers, I was advised by my friends to have recourse to inoculation for my own safety, though contrary to general orders. I was accord- ingly inoculated by my friend Dr. John Homans, and have passed through the disease in the most favorable manner, not suffering one day's confinement. June 13th-The harbor of Boston has not been entirely cleared of British shipping since the town was evacuated. A fifty-gun ship and several other vessels still occupy the the lower harbor, near Nantasket. A number of provin- cial troops and volunteers are now ordered on an expedi- tion, . command of General Benjamin Lincoln, with heavy cannon, for the purpose of driving them from the harbor. A part of our regiment being ordered on the expedition, we embarked at the Long Wharf, and landed on Long Island, and immediately made arrangements for a cannonade. A few shot soon convinced the commodore of his danger; he returned the fire with some spirit; but having received a shot through his upper works, he soon got under sail and hastily departed. Thus is the port of Boston again opened by our own authority, after being closed during two years by virtue of an act of the British Parliament. 20th.-The removal of the British armed vessels from Nantasket has been productive of very favorable conse- quences. Three days after their departure two transports from Scotland bound to Boston, unapprised of the event, entered Nantasket road, and were accosted by a discharge of cannon from an American battery before they were undeceived. In this situation it was impossible for them to escape, and several of our privateers made their appear- ance, and commanded them to strike their flag. This be- ing refused, a smart action ensued, and continued about an hour and a half, when they were obliged to yield and strike to the privateers. On board the transports Major Menzies and eight others were killed, and seventeen wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel Archibald Campbell, two hundred and sixty-seven Highlanders, and forty-eight others, were made risoners. Major Menzies has been buried here with the onors of war. July 3d.—Orders are given to inoculate for the small- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 45 ox, all the soldiers and inhabitants in town, as a general infection of this terrible disease is apprehended. Dr. Townsend and myself are now constantly engaged in this business. 12th.-Melancholy accounts have been received respect- ing the situation of our army in Canada; they are sub- jected to jº, great hardships, sufferings, and privations. Destitute of the necessary supplies of provisions and stores, exhausted by fatigue, and reduced by sickness, with the small-pox attended by unexampled mortality, they are in a state but little short of desperation. In addition to all their sufferings, they now have to deplore the loss of their valuable commander, Major-General John Thomas. This gentleman was a native of Kingston, Massachusetts. He was in military service in former wars against the French and Indians, where he acquired a high degree of reputa- tion. He was among the first to espouse the cause of his country in a military character in 1775, and during the siege of Boston, and on the heights of Dorchester, he was distinguished as an active, vigilant and brave officer. In March, 1776, he was promoted by Congress from a brig- adier to the rank of major-general, and by them appointed to command our forces in Canada. On his arrival there he found innumerable difficulties to encounter; the small- pox frequently breaking out among the troops, and the soldiers being in the practice of inoculating themselves, to the great injury of the public service. The general deemed it necessary, for the safety of the army, to prohibit the practice of inoculating, and not excepting himself from the injunction, he unfortunately received the infection, which proved fatal to him, and deprived the public of a valuable general officer. He was held in universal respect and confidence as a military character, and his death is deeply deplored throughout the army. The very important intelligence from Philadelphia is now proclaimed, that on the 4th instant, the American Congress declared the thirteen United Colonies, “Free, Sovereign, Independent States.” The subject has for some time agitated the public mind, and various opinions have been entertained relative to this momentous transaction. Opinions of much weight and authority have been and still are in collision, and it has been considered very 46 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. doubtful whether the grand object would be accomplished at the present time. Objections, however, have yielded to imperious necessity, and a new epoch for United America has now commenced. We are now, in the 16th year of the reign of his Majesty King George the Third, absolved from all allegiance to the British crown; and all political connexion between us, as subjects, and his gov- ernment is totally and for ever dissolved, unless indeed Providence shall so order, that we shall be again reduced to a state of dependence and vassalage. 18th-This day the declaration of American Independ- ence has been proclaimed in form from the balcony of the state-house in this town. On this most joyful occasion Colonels Whitcomb and Sargeant's regiments were pa- raded under arms in King street; and also a detachment from the Massachusetts regiment of artillery with two field- pieces. A number of the members of our council and house of representatives, the magistrates, clergymen, Se- lectmen, and a large number of other gentlemen of Boston, and of the neighboring towns, assembled in the council- chamber. At one o'clock the declaration was proclaimed by Colonel Thomas Crafts, and was received with great joy. Three huzzas from the concourse of people were given, after which thirteen pieces of cannon were fired from Fort hill and from Dorchester neck, the Castle, Nan- tasket, &c. The detachment of artillery in King street, discharged their cannon thirteen times; which was fol- lowed by the two regiments in thirteen separate divisions; all corresponding to the number of the American United States; after which, the gentlemen in the council chamber partook of a collation, and a number of appropriate toasts were proclaimed by the president of the council. This highly important transaction of our Congress is the theme of every circle and topic of universal discussion, and it receives the sanction and approbation of a large majority of the community. When we reflect on the de- ranged condition of our army, the great deficiency of our resources, and the little prospect of foreign assistance, and at the same time contemplate the prodigious powers and resources of our enemy, we may view this measure of Congress as a prodigy. The history of the world cannot furnish an instance of fortitude and heroic magnanimity MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 47 parallel to that displayed by the members, whose signa- tures are affixed to the declaration of American Independ- ence. Their venerated names will ornament the brightest pages of American history, and be transmitted to the latest generations. The instrument was signed by John Han- cock, Esq. as President, and by fifty-four others, delegates from the thirteen United States. The Congress have in their declaration recited the grievances and oppressions, for which we could not obtain redress; and proclaimed to the world the causes which impelled them to a separa- tion from the crown of Great Britain. A sensible and popular writer, in a production entitled “Common Sense,” argues the necessity of the measure from the following considerations. “We had no credit abroad because of our rebellious dependency. Our ships could obtain no pro- tection in foreign ports, because we afforded them no just- ifiable reason for granting it to us. The calling of ourselves subjects, and at the same time fighting against the prince we acknowledge, was a dangerous precedent to all Europe. If the grievances justified our taking up arms, they justi- fied our separation; if they did not justify our separation, neither could they justify our taking arms. All Europe was interested in reducing us as rebels, and all Europe, or the greater part at least, is interested in supporting us in our independent state. At home our condition was still worse; our currency had no foundation; and the state of it would have ruined whig and tory alike. We had no other laws than a kind of moderated passion; no other civil power than an honest mob; and no other protection than the temporary attachment of one man to another. Had independency been delayed a few months longer, this continent would have been plunged into irretrieva- ble confusion; some violent for it, some against it—all in the greatest cabal; the rich would have been ruined, and the poor destroyed. The necessity of being independent would have brought it on in a little time, had there been no rupture between Britain and America. The increasing importance of commerce—the weight and perplexity of legislation—and the enlarged state of European politics, would clearly have shown to the continent the impropri- ety of continuing subordinate; for after the coolest reflec- tion on the matter, this must be allowed, ‘that Britain 48 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. was too jealous of America to govern it justly; too igno rant of it to govern it well; and too distant from it to govern it at all.” The author of Common Sense is Mr. Thomas Paine, lately from England. I am credibly in- formed that the following anecdote occurred on the day of signing the declaration. Mr. Harrison, a delegate from Virginia, is a large portly man—Mr. Gerry of Massachu- setts is slender and spare. A little time after the solemn transaction of signing the instrument, Mr. Harrison said smilingly to Mr. Gerry, “When the hanging scene comes to be exhibited, I shall have the advantage over you, on account of my size. All will be over with me in a mo- ment, but you will be kicking in the air half an hour after I am gone.” 20th.--It appears, by the public papers, that a detach- ment from the British army of two thousand eight hun- dred men, under the command of Major-General Clinton, Lord Cornwallis, and a fleet consisting of two line of battle ships, frigates, and other armed vessels, amounting to forty or fifty, have lately made a furious attack on the town of Charleston, South Carolina. Major-General Lee, who commands our army in that quarter, has written to Con- gress a particular statement of the engagement, which, he says, continued for twelve hours without intermission. The enemy was twice repulsed with great loss; and the Carolina troops and militia have gained the highest honor by their brave and intrepid conduct. Colonel Moultrie, in a particular manner, is deserving of the highest praise. But the British fleet has suffered a loss almost beyond example. Their ships shattered almost to total ruin, and one frigate of twenty-eight guns was blown up by her own crew. A number of officers were killed and wounded, and the number of men is said to be one hundred and seventy-nine killed, and two hundred and sixty wounded. Not one man, who was quartered at the beginning of the action on the Bristol's quarter-deck, escaped being killed or wounded. Lord Campbell, the late governor of that colony, being a volunteer on board, received a mortal wound; and the Commodore, Sir Peter Parker, had a material part of his breeches torn away, and was otherwise wounded. The whole of the British forces displayed the greatest courage and bravery. In a southern newspaper are inserted the following lines on Sir Peter's disaster: MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 49 “If honor in the breech is lodged, As Hudibras hath shown, It may from hence be fairly judged Sir Peter's honor's gone.” The English Parliament, doubting the competency of their own powers to subjugate the United Colonies, have resorted to the assistance of foreign troops to prosecute their sanguinary purposes. They have actually entered into treaty with several German princes to furnish seven- teen thousand men, to aid in the great work of reducing the Americans to the same degraded state of vassalage with these hirelings themselves. The terms stipulated in the treaties are, that besides the wages to be paid these foreigners, Parliament engages to pay for every soldier who shall not return, thirty pounds sterling; and for every disabled soldier fifteen pounds sterling! These mercenary troops, it is said in England, are to “assist in forcing the rebels to ask mercy.” It has been asserted in the House of Lords, that the expense to England for these foreign troops cannot be less than one million five hundred thou- sand pounds for one year! There is now the clearest evidence, that the British ministry are wofully disappointed in their expectations respecting the spirit and temper of the American people. They had entertained no idea that the colonists would proceed to such daring enormity as to spurn their mighty power and authority. They appear now determined by their augmented forces to crush at a blow all opposition to their mandates, and to coerce the rebels into a sense of duty to their king. It is estimated that a force exceeding forty thousand men is to be em- ployed in America the present year. His majesty has appointed the two brothers, Lord Howe and General Howe, commissioners for restoring peace to the colonies, and for granting pardon to such of his majesty's subjects, now in rebellion, as shall deserve the royal clemency. Besides the two commissioners, they are about to send on the same service a combination of Hessians, Brunswickers, Waldeckers, English, Scotch, and Irish. The Scots may perhaps come prepared with the following advice: “O learn from our example and our fate, Learn wisdom and repentance ere too late.” The following transaction is now a subject of newspaper 50 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. discussion and of general conversation. Admiral Lord Howe arrived off the city of New York, not long since, to take the command of the British fleet; on his arrival he proclaimed to the public that he and his brother Gen- eral Hówe were appointed his majesty's commissioners, with full powers to grant pardons to all or to any town, county, or district, who may have departed from their allegiance and duty to his majesty, &c., and who are willing by a speedy return to reap the benefit of the royal favor. These royal commissioners despatched Colonel Patterson, adjutant-general of the British army, to General Wash- ington, at New York, with letters respecting their mission; but as the letters were not directed in a manner expressive of his official station, his excellency refused to receive them; but treated Colonel Patterson with much politeness, and dismissed him. The conduct of General Washington in this interview received the approbation of Congress, and they resolved, “that he had acted with a dignity be- coming his character.” They further resolved, “that no letters or messages be received on any occasion whatever from the enemy, by the commander-in-chief or others, the commanders of the American army, but such as shall be directed to them in the characters they respectively sus- tain.” It was not many days after this that Colonel Pat- terson again waited on General Washington, and on this occasion he addressed him by the title of excellency; and in the name of the commissioners apologized for any de- ficiency in point of respect or punctilio, and assured him that they had the highest personal respect for General Washington, and did not mean to derogate from his rank; that the letter, of which he was now the bearer from the commissioners, was directed to George Washington, Esq., &c. &c. &c., which they hoped would remove all difficulties; as the three et ceteras might be understood to imply every thing that ought to follow. To this the general replied, that though it was true the three et ceteras might mean every thing, it was also true they might mean any thing, and as Congress had approved of his conduct in the first interview, he could not enter into any new treaty without fresh authority, and declined receiving the letter; adding that he should absolutely decline any letter directed to him as a private person, when it related to his public sta- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 5]. * tion. Colonel Patterson said, Lord and General Howe were invested with exceedingly great powers, and were very desirous of being the medium of an accommodation of difficulties. The general replied, he had read the act of Parliament, and found they were merely empowered to grant pardons. The Americans had committed no wrong, and therefore wanted no pardons; we were only defending what we deemed our indisputable rights. Colo: nel Patterson seemed confused, and replied that this would open a wide field for argument. The adjutant-general conducted with the greatest attention and politeness; and manifested great solicitude that the letter might be re- ceived, and that the interview might be productive of favorable results. He expressed strong acknowledgments for the favor done him, in omitting the usual ceremony of blinding his eyes, when passing our works. General Washington invited him to partake of a collation provided for him, and he was introduced to our general Officers. After many compliments and polite expressions, he de- parted with saying, “Has your excellency no commands to my Lord or General Howe?” “None, sir,” replied the general, “but my particular compliments to both of them.” This event furnishes an irrefragable testimony of the manly firmness of mind and dignity of conduct of our commander-in-chief; and is calculated to impress the Eng- lish commanders with a just sense of his exalted merit and character. August 1st.—The continental army, under the immediate command of General Washington, is stationed at New York; and it is expected that the British army, under command of General Howe, will endeavor to take posses- sion of that city the present season. 5th.-Colonel Whitcomb's regiment, consisting of five hundred men, has now gone through the small-pox in this town by inoculation, and all, except one negro, have recovered. 7th.--This regiment, with Colonel Sargeant's, are pre- paring to march to Ticonderoga. A number of teams are procured to transport the baggage and stores, and this morning, at seven o'clock, they marched out of town with colors displayed and drums beating. Being myself indis- posed, I am permitted to tarry in town till my health is 52 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. restored, and in the mean time I am directed to take charge of the sick soldiers that remain here. 20th-Having recovered my health, and being prepared to follow our regiment, I am this day to bid adieu to the town of Boston, where I have resided very pleasantly for the last five months. I am destined to a distant part of our country, and know not what suffering and hazards I shall be called to encounter, while in the discharge of my military duty. I shall commence my journey in company with Lieutenant Whiting and fourteen men who were left here as invalids. - September.—We took our route through Worcester, Springfield, Charlestown, in New Hampshire, and over the Green Mountains to Skeensboro'; which is the place of rendezvous for the continental troops and militia des- tined to Ticonderoga. Here boats are provided at the entrance of Lake Champlain, which are continually passing to and from this place. We embarked on the 6th instant, and with good oarsmen and sails we arrived the same day, and joined our regiment here, a distance of thirty miles. While on our march, we received alarming reports re- specting some military operations between our army, commanded by General Washington, and the British, under command of General Howe, on Long Island, near New York. The report states that our army has suffered a complete defeat with great loss, and that two of our general officers are taken prisoners. The inhabitants through the country are in great alarm; but have not ob- tained the particulars; as the account at present is vague, and somewhat contradictory, we hope and trust that a particular detail will prove the event to be more favorable to Our Cause. Soon after my arrival here, a soldier had the impru- " dence to seize a rattlesnake by its tail; the reptile threw its head back and struck its fangs into the man's hand. In a few moments a swelling commenced, attended with severe pain. It was not more than half an hour, when his whole arm to his shoulder was swollen to twice its natural size, and the skin became of a deep orange color. His body, on one side, soon became affected in a similar manner, and a nausea at his stomach ensued. The poor raan was greatly and justly alarmed; his situation was very ATTEMPT TO ASSASSINATE WASHINGTON. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 53 critical. Two medical men, beside myself, were in close attendance for several hours. Having procured a quantity of olive oil, we directed the patient to swallow it in large and repeated doses, till he had taken one quart; and at the same time we rubbed into the affected limb a very large quantity of mercurial ointment. In about two hours we had the satisfaction to perceive the favorable effects of the remedies. The alarming symptoms abated, the swelling and pain gradually subsided, and in about forty-eight hours he was happily restored to health. 10th.-I have omitted to record the following incidents, till I could ascertain the particulars of the reports. We learn by accounts from New York that, some time since, a plot of a most atrocious nature was detected in that city. A gang of tories had associated for the purpose of joining the British army; and had concerted a plan, it is said, to assassinate his Excellency General Washington and some other officers; and while our army were engaged with the enemy, to blow up our magazines, &c. The mayor of the city, and an armorer who was employed in making rifles for the tories, and several others, were taken into custody, and committed to close prison. The mayor, on examination, confessed that he received money from Governor Tryon to pay the armorer for the rifles. Two of his excellency's guards were confederate; and a third, to whom the secret was confided, honestly disclosed the information. Several of these miscreants were tried and convicted, and two or three were executed. Another vile plot has been discovered in the city of Albany. By the confession of two tories, the plan was to set the city on fire, and to blow up the magazine. Some of the incendia- ries were apprehended, and the meditated plot frustrated. We have now ample evidence, that the tories are the most virulent and implacable of our enemies; and it is to be considered as a remarkable interposition of Providence, that their vile machinations are so frequently defeated. Internal Secret enemies are always more dangerous than avowed foes in the field; and so numerous and active are the tories in the vicinity of our main army, that it has been found necessary to adopt coercive measures, and to compel them to take the oath of allegiance, as prescribed by our Congress, or to depart from our territories. 54 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 12th.-I must not omit to notice another instance of villany in a German by the name of Ledwitz. By his solicitation he was appointed lieutenant-colonel in our army, and he has been detected in a traitorous correspondence with Governor Tryon of New York. He entrusted his letter to one Steen, an honest German, to be conveyed to New York; but he considered it his duty to expose the perfidy, and delivered it to General Washington. In his letter he first presents his compliments in a formal manner to Lord Howe, and then proceeds to profess a conscious- ness that the world will censure him for his treachery, in corresponding with the enemy of those in whose service he is employed, but apologizes by asserting that he had been forced to accept his commission, for fear of ruin to himself and family; and as he had engaged, through com- pulsion, by a rebellious mob, he can be under no obligation to be faithful in their service. Besides this, he adds, he had previously taken Governor Tryon's advice, and had promised to do all he could in his new capacity for his majesty's service. He then asserts that a person who is a friend to the king, though an interested one, had offered to furnish him with weekly returns of the strength and detail of the continental army, for the sum of four thou- sand pounds sterling, to be paid in advance in gold; but that he had agreed with him to render that service for two thousand pounds, which sum, he requested, might be im- mediately conveyed to him. By this criminal act the per- fidious wretch had forfeited his life, according to the articles of war; but on his trial by a court martial, his life was saved by the casting vote of a militia officer, who pretended some scruples of conscience; he was, however, cashiered, and declared incapable of holding any military office in the service of the United States. 15th.-I have now ascertained, by accounts published, that the battle on Long Island took place on the 27th of August. The British and Hessian army, supposed to amount to twenty-four thousand, landed on the island under cover of their shipping. The continental army con- sisted of ten thousand five hundred and fourteen effectives only; and these were so situated, that but a small part could be brought into action; the conflict therefore was extremely unequal. In point of numbers, of discipline, º t | . WNY&F # CornwALLIS, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 55 experience in war, and of artillery, the enemy possessed the most decided advantage; besides the important assist- ance afforded by a powerful fleet. The very judicious plan of attack by the British generals was carried into execution with irresistible ardor and impetuosity. The Americans defended themselves with great bravery, till a considerable number of them were completely surrounded and the remainder dispersed. The palm of victory was on the side of the enemy; and our loss is very considerable. Major-General Sullivan and Lord Stirling were obliged to surrender as prisoners; and our total loss is supposed to be not less than one thousand or twelve hundred in killed, wounded, and missing. The enemy suffered very severely. After this unfortunate skirmishing, our army retreated within their lines at Brooklyn, and were exposed to the greatest hazard; our troops, fatigued and discouraged by defeat, a superior enemy in their front, and a powerful fleet about to enter the East River with a view of effectu- ally cutting off their retreat; but an interposition of Providence, and the wisdom and vigilance of the com- mander-in-chief, preserved our army from destruction. Having resolved to withdraw his army from its hazardous position, General Washington crossed over to the island in the night of the 29th of August, and personally con- ducted the retreat in so successful a manner, under the most embarrassing circumstances, that it is considered as a remarkable example of good generalship. A circum- stance which is remarked as manifestly providential, is, that a thick fog enveloped the whole of Long Island in obscurity about two o'clock in the morning, while on the side of the enemy at New York, the atmosphere was per- fectly clear. Thus by a providential interposition of an unusual fog, our army, consisting of nine thousand men, in one night embarked under great disadvantages, and with their baggage, provisions, stores, horses, and the mu- nitions of war, crossed a river, a mile or more wide, and landed at New York undiscovered and without material loss. The enemy were so near, that they were heard at Work with their pick-axes, and in about half an hour after, the fog cleared off and the enemy were seen taking pos- session of the American lines, 20th.-General Washington, finding the city of New 5 * 56 . MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. York untenable, has removed his whole army about nine miles up the country; which he effected in safety, though uuder a heavy cannonade from the British shipping.— General Howe with his army took immediate possession of the city. Major-General Sullivan, who was captured on Long Island, has been permitted to return on his parole; and is charged with a message to Congress from Lord Howe. The purport of the message is, that his lordship, as commissioner, could not treat with Congress, as such; but is desirous of a conference with some of the members, as private gentlemen. Congress could not consider them- Selves justified in sending any of their members in their private character; but ever desirous of establishing peace on reasonable terms, offered to send a committee to in- quire whether his lordship had any authority to treat with persons authorized by Congress for this purpose, and what that authority was, and to hear such propositions as he should think proper to make respecting the same. They accordingly made choice of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Esq. and Edward Rutledge, Esq., who had an inter- view with Lord Howe on Staten Island. The first propo- sition from his lordship was, that the colonies should return to their allegiance and obedience to the government of Great Britain. The committee expressed their opinion, that a return to the domination of Great Britian was not to be expected. They mentioned the repeated humble petitions of the colonies to the king and parliament, which had been treated with contempt, and answered with addi- tional injuries; the unexampled patience we had shown un- der their tyrannical government, and that it was not till the last act of Parliament, which denounced war against us, and put us out of the king's protection, that we declared our independence; and that it is not now in the power of Con- gress to agree that the people should return to their former de- pendent state. The committee reported to Congress that it did not appear that his lordship's commission contained any other authority of importance than what is expressed in the act of Parliament, namely, that of granting par- dons, with such exceptions as the commissoners shall think proper to make, and of declaring America, or any part of it, to be in the king's peace on submission. The commit- tee conducted the business with great judgment, and in a MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 57 manner becoming the dignity of their character. The Congress adopted no other measures on this occasion; and the British commissioners, finding that the United States could not relinquish their independency, published their declaration to the people at large, recommending to them “to reflect seriously on their present conduct and expect- ations, and to judge for themselves, whether it is more consistent with their honor and happiness to offer up their lives as a sacrifice to the unjust and precarious cause in which they are engaged, or to return to their allegiance, accept the blessings of peace, and be secured in the free enjoyment of their liberties and property.” Had the de- claration of independence been deferred but a few weeks longer, this proceeding of the commissioners might have been productive of consequences exceedingly disastrous to our country. It would probably have increased the number of opposers to the measure, and occasioned the greatest confusion and embarrassment. It was undoubted- ly their object, by a specious prospect of reconciliation, to create a division among the colonies and people, and there- by paralyze their exertions and preparations for war. But at the present time, the declaration of the king's commis- sioners is not calculated to effect the great purpose which they have in view; the people at large have become too wise to be duped and cajoled out of their freedom. They repose unbounded confidence in the wisdom of the Con- gress of their choice; and have no disposition to counter- act their views or embarrass their counsels. The number of individuals, who have accepted of the proffered condi- tions, is supposed to be very inconsiderable; and by far the largest portion of them are in the city of New York and its immediate vicinity. By a flag from New York we learn that, about five days after the British army took possession of that city, a destructive fire broke out, and raged with such violence, that about one thousand houses, Some of the most superb buildings, being about one-quar- ter of the whole city, were consumed. Some suspicions were entertained that this disaster was occasioned by American emissaries, and several persons had been treated with great cruelty, though no proof was produced against them. There is on the contrary much reason to conclude that the conflagration was merely accidental. 58 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. We have the information that, before our army evacu- ated the city of New York, General Howe's army landed, under cover of five ships of war, the British and Hessians In two separate divisions. So soon as this was announced to our commander-in-chief, by a heavy cannonade from the men of war, he instantly rode toward our lines; but he was astonished and mortified to find that the troops which had been posted there, and also two brigades which had been ordered to support them, were retreating in great confusion and disorder. He made every effort to rally them, but without success; they were so panic-struck that even the shadow of an enemy seemed to increase their precipitate flight. His excellency, distressed and enraged, drew his sword and snapped his pistols, to check them; but they continued their flight without firing a gun; and the general, regardless of his own safety, was in so much hazard, that one of his attendants seized the reins, and gave his horse a different direction. The following fact is of considerable interest: When retreating from New York, Major-General Put- nam, at the head of three thousand five hundred conti- mental troops, was in the rear, and the last that left the city. In order to avoid any of the enemy that might be advan- cing in the direct road to the city, he made choice of a road parallel with and contiguous to the North River, till he could arrive at a certain angle, whence another road would conduct him in such a direction as that he might form a junction with our army. It so happened that a body of about eight thousand British and Hessians were at the same moment advancing on the road, which would have brought them in immediate contact with General Putnam, before he could have reached the turn into the other road. Most fortunately, the British generals, seeing no prospect of engaging our troops, halted their own, and repaired to the house of a Mr. Robert Murray, a Quaker and friend of our cause; Mrs. Murray treated them with cake and wine, and they were induced to tarry two hours or more, Governor Tryon frequently joking her about her American friends. By this happy incident General Put. nam, by continuing his march, escaped a rencounter with a greatly superior force, which must have proved fatal to his whole party. One half-hour, it is said, would have MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 59 been sufficient for the enemy to have secured the road at the turn, and entirely cut off General Putnam's retreat. It has since become almost a common saying among our officers, that Mrs. Murray saved this part of the Ameri- can army. --- I have collected from the preceding pages of my Journal Some observations relative to the formation and character of our army. After the battle at Lexington, such was the enthusiasm for the cause of liberty, and so general and extensive the alarm, that thousands of our citizens, who were engaged in the cultivation of their farms, spontane- ously rushed to the scene of action; and an army was assembled almost without the efforts of public authority. At this most eventful period, it was the fond hope of a large proportion of our patriotic leaders, that the contro- versy with our parent-country would yet be compromised on honorable and equitable terms. Though the haughty Britons had unsheathed the sword, and shed the blood of their brethren, it was impossible to endure the idea that our loyal and humble supplications to the king could any longer be contemptuously rejected; more especially after a complete union of all the colonies in a determined oppo- sition to their tyrannical measures was clearly demon- strated. Calculating therefore that the services of an army would be required for a short period only, and the troops in the field consisting chiefly of minute-men, volunteers and militia, it was a considerable time before they were regularly organized into regiments and brigades. In many instances the soldiers were indulged the privilege of choos- ing their own officers; the consequence was, as might be expected, that the choice did not fall on the most respect. able and meritorious, but on those who were the most popular among the lower class; and these too frequently proved unqualified to discharge their military duties in a manner creditable to themselves or advantageous to the public service. Nor was it to be expected that this de- Scription of people could appreciate the importance of the great desideratain all armies, discipline and subordination. It has been found, by sad experience, that but little depend. ence can be placed on an army of militia, and those whose term of service is so short that they are almost continually fluctuating from camp to their farms, and in whom the 60 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. noble spirit of patriotism is in a considerable degree ex- tinguished. There is another evil of a very serious com- plexion which has manifested itself in our camp. Since the troops from the Southern states have been incorporated and associated in military duty with those from New Eng- land, a strong prejudice has assumed its unhappy influence, and drawn a line of distinction between them. Many of the officers from the South are gentlemen of education, and unaccustomed to that equality which prevails in New England; and, however desirable, it could scarcely be expected that people from distant colonies, differing in manners and prejudices, could at once harmonize infriendly intercourse. Hence we too frequently hear the burlesque epithet of Yankee from one party, and that of Buck-skin, by way of retort, from the other. The troops which com- pose the continental army being enlisted for a few months only, their time of service will soon expire. Congress, being apprised of the absolute necessity of a permanent army, have lately resolved, “to raise a standing army to consist of about seventy-five thousand men, to serve for the term of three years, or during the war.” These troops, when raised, are to be systematically arranged on the con- tinental establishment, and according to their apportion- ment, the quota of Massachusetts is fifteen battalions, or about twelve thousand men. To encourage enlistments, each soldier is to receive a bounty of twenty dollars, besides his wages and allowance of rations, and one hundred acres of land, if he serve during the war. The officers are to receive land in proportion to their respective ranks, from two hundred to five hundred acres. Their monthly pay is to be as follows: Colonel, a month, . . . . . . . . . . . . $75 00 Lieutenant,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2700 Lieutenant-Colonel, . . . . . . . . . . 60 00 Ensign, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 00 Major. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 00 Sergeant-Major, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 00 Chaplain, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 33 Quarter-Master Sergeant,..... 9 00 Surgeon, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 33 Drum-Major, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 00 Surgeon’s-Mate,........ . . . . . . 1800 Fife-Major, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 33 Adjutant, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 00 Sergeant, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 00 Quarter-Master, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 50 Corporal, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 733 Regimental Pay-Master, ...... 26 67 Drummer and Fifer, .......... 733 Captain, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 00 Privates,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 67 Each commissioned officer is allowed the privilege of taking a soldier from the ranks for a waiter, and he is ex- empted from camp and other duty, exceptin time of action. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 61 The officers are also allowed a number of rations in pro- portion to their rank. A surgeon draws three, and a mate two rations. One pound of beef or pork; one pound of bread or flour a day; a small quantity of vegetables, when to be had; one gill of rum or whiskey, a day; a small quantity of vinegar, salt, soap and candles, a week, con- stitute a ration. Ticonderoga is situated on an angle of land forming the western shore of Lake Champlain; or rather what is called South Bay; being the inlet into the lake. It is about twelve miles south of the old fortress at Crown Point; and about one hundred and ten miles north of Albany. This point of land is surrounded on three sides by water, and on the north-west side it is well defended by the old French lines and several block-houses. The works at this place were originally erected by the French, in 1756, and the post was considered of high importance by both the French and English, as commanding the pass direct from Canada to the provinces of New York and New England. In the war between the English and French, in the year 1759, it was surrendered to General Amherst, which was a prelude to the conquest of Canada by the English and Provincial army. In 1775, after the commencement of hostilities at Lexington, this post was taken from the English, by a Small party of militia volunteers under command of Colo- nel Allen and Colonel Arnold, which put the Provincials in possession of a large number of cannon, mortars and other ordnance; a part of which was transported to Cam: bridge during the siege of Boston. On the east side of South Bay, directly opposite to Ticonderoga, is a high circular hill, on the summit of which our army has erected a strong fort, within which is a square of barracks. This is called Mount Independence. A communication is main- tained between the two places by a floating bridge thrown across the lake, which is about four hundred yards wide. The army stationed at this post at present is supposed to consist of about eight or ten thousand men, and Major- General Gates is commander-in-chief. We have a naval armament on Lake Champlain, below this garrison, which is commanded by the intrepid General Arnold; General Waterbury is second in command. The British have also a naval armament, of superior force, at the head of which 62 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. is the celebrated Sir Guy Carleton. º 3.Te making on both sides for a vigorous combat to decide which power shall have dominion on the lake Should Sir Guy Carleton be able to defeat our fleet, it is supposed that he will pursue his victorious career by an attempt to possess himself of this garrison; and our troops are making the utmost exertion to put our works in the best possible state of defence. Each regiment has its alarm-post assign- ed, and they are ordered to repair to it, and to man the lines at day-light every morning. Among 9ur defensive weapons are poles, about twelve feet long, armed with sharp iron points, which each soldier is to employ against the assailants when mounting the breastworks. We are happy to learn from head-quarters that the two continental generals, taken in the action on Long Island, Lord Stirling and Major-General Sullivan, have returned to our camp; being exchanged for General Prescott, captured in Canada, and Governor Brown, who was brought off from New Providence by one of our armed vessels. October.—By some gentlemen from head-quarters, near New York, we are amused with an account of a singular machine, invented by a Mr. D. Bushnell of Connecticut, for the purpose of destroying the British shipping by explosion. This novel machine was so ingeniously con- structed, that, on examination, Major-General Putnam was decidedly of opinion that its operations might be attended with the desired success; accordingly he encour- aged the inventor, and resolved to be himself a spectator of the experiment on the British shipping in New York harbor. Mr. Bushnell gave to his machine the name of American Turtle or Torpedo...If was constructed on the principles of submarine navigation, and on trial it has been ascertained that it might be rowed horizontally, at any given depth under water, and the adventurer, concealed within, might rise or sink, as occasion requires. A mag- azine of powder was attached to it in such a manner as to be screwed into the bottom of the ship; and being now disengaged from the machine, the operator retires in safety, leaving the internal clock-work in motion; and at the distance of half an hour, or an hour, the striking of a gun lock communicates fire to the powder, and the explosion takes place. It was determined to make the experiment ? % % ± ！■ºſº № • • • § ¶ ſº ’,//// // ∞ %% · · · ~· ////// % BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 63 with this machine in the night, on the ship Eagle, of sixty- four guns, on board of which admiral Lord Howe com- manded. General Putnam placed himself on the wharf to witness the result. Mr. Bushnell had instructed his brother in the management of the Torpedo with perfect dexterity; but being taken sick, a sergeant of a Connecticut regiment was selected for the business, who, for want of time, could not be properly instructed. He, however, succeeded so far as to arrive in safety with his apparatus under the bottom of the ship, when the screw, designed to perforate the copper sheathing, unfortunately struck against an iron plate, near the rudder, which, with the strong current and want of skill in the operator, frustrated the enterprise; and, as day-light had begun to appear, the sergeant aban- doned his magazine, and returned in the Torpedo to the shore. In less than half an hour a terrible explosion from the magazine took place, and threw into the air a prodi- gious column of water, resembling a great water-spout, attended with a report like thunder. General Putnam and others, who waited with great anxiety for the result, were exceedingly amused with the astonishment and alarm which this secret explosion occasioned on board of the ship. This failure, it is confidently asserted, is not to be attributed to any defect in the principles of this won- derful machine; as it is allowed to be admirably calculated to execute destruction among the shipping. 10th.-By intelligence from our fleet, on the lake, we are in daily expectation of a decisive naval action, as the British are known to have a superior force; our officers, here, I understand, are full of anxiety respecting the im- portant event. Great confidence is reposed in the judg- ment and bravery of General Arnold, whom General Gates has appointed to command our fleet. 15th.-I have now to record an account of a naval en- gagement between the two fleets on Lake Champlain. The British, under command of Sir Guy Carleton, advanced on the 11th instant, and found our fleet in a line of battle Fº for the attack. A warm action soon ensued, and ecame extremely close and severe, with round and grape shot, which continued about four hours. Brigadier-Gen- eral Waterbury, in the Washington galley, fought with undaunted bravery, till nearly all his officers were killed 64 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. and wounded, and his vessel greatly injured; when Gen- eral Arnold ordered the remaining shattered vessels to retire up the lake, towards Crown Point, in order to réfit. On the 13th, they were overtaken by the enemy, and the action was renewed, in which was displayed the greatest intrepidity on both sides. The Washington galley, being crippled in the first action, was soon obliged to strike and surrender. General Arnold conducted during the action with great judgment, firmness and gallantry, obstinately defending himself against a superior force, both in num- bers and weight of metal. At length, however, he was so closely pressed that his situation became desperate, and he run his own vessel, the Congress galley, on shore, which with five gondolas were abandoned and blown up. Out of sixteen of our vessels, eleven were taken or destroyed, five only arrived safe at this place. Two of the enemy's gondolas were sunk by our fleet, and one blown up with sixty men. Their loss in men is supposed to be equal to our own, which is estimated at about one hundred. A large number of troops were on board the British fleet, consisting of regulars, Canadians and savages, which have been landed on each side of the lake, and it is now expected that Sir Guy Carleton, at the head of his army, reported to be about ten thousand strong, will soon invest this post. By order of General Gates, our commander, the greatest exertions are constantly making, by strengthening our works, to enable us to give them a warm reception; and our soldiery express a strong desire to have an opportunity of displaying their courage and prowess; both officers and men are full of activity and vigilance. 18th.-It is now ascertained that the British army and fleet have established themselves at Crown Point, and are strengthening the old fortifications at that place. Some of their vessels have approached within a few miles of our garrison, and one boat came within cannon-shot distance of our lower battery, in order to reconnoitre and sound the channel; but a few shot having killed two men, and wounded another, soon obliged her to retire. All our troops are ordered to repair to their alarm posts, and man the lines and works; every morning, our continental colors are advantageously displayed on the ramparts, and our cannon and spears are in readiness for action. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 65 20th-Ever since the defeat of our fleet we have been F. favored with a strong southerly wind, which as prevented the enemy's advancing to attack our lines, and afforded us time to receive some réinforcements of militia, and to prepare for a more vigorous defence. It seems now to be the opinion of many of our mostjudicious officers, that had Sir Guy Carleton approached with his army, immediately after his victory on the lake, the strug- gle must have been most desperate, and the result precari- ous; but we now feel more confidence in our strength. Several letters, lately received from Canada, acknowl- edge that no man ever manoeuvred with more dexterity, fought with more bravery, or retreated with more firmness, than did General Arnold on the 11th and 12th instant. After making every effort to compensate, by the advantage of situation, for the inferiority of force, and seeing his own vessel, and the rest, torn to pieces by the superior weight of metal, and the execution of the enemy's howitzers, he set fire to his vessel, and would not quit her till she was so completely in flames that it was impossible for the enemy to strike her colors on their arrival, and they were left flying among the flames to the last. This, says one of the letters, was supporting a point of honor in a manner al- most romantic; yet so it was. November 1st.—The enemy remain at Crown Point, and evince no disposition to molest our garrison, having prob- ably discovered that our means of defence are too formi- dable for them to encounter. General Gates has now ordered a detachment of troops to march towards Crown Point, to reconnoitre their position, or to attack them. A report was soon returned that the whole fleet and army have abandoned Crown Point, and retired into Canada, where they will probably occupy their winter-quarters in peace, and it is not probable that Sir Guy Carleton intends to invest our garrison, at this advanced season, unless, however, he should attempt it by marching his army over the ice, when the lake is frozen, which will probably be Very practicable. 15th-Ticonderoga is situated in about latitude forty- four degrees. I have no means in possession of ascertain- ing the precise degree of cold; but we all agree that it is colder here than in Massachusetts at the same season. The 66 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776, earth has not yet been covered with snow, but the frost is so considerable that the water of the lake is congealed, and the earth is frozen. We are comfortably situated in our barracks; our provisions are now good, and having no enemy near enough to alarm or disturb us, we have nothing of importance to engage our attention. Our troops are quite healthy, a few cases of rheumatism and pleurisy comprise our sick-list, and it is seldom that any fatal cases occur. wº December 10th.-Intelligence has lately arrived at head- quarters here, that a British fleet, and a detachment of five or six thousand of the royal army have taken posses- sion of Newport, in Rhode Island, without any opposition; many of the inhabitants being friendly to the royal cause, they were received as friends. By letters from officers, and by other information from our main army, we learn with sorrow that our affairs in that quarter are in a most deplorable and almost desperate situation. Since the evacuation of New York, several battles and skirmishes have taken place between the two armies, with consider- able loss on both sides; but his excellency the commander- in-chief has constantly avoided a general action. Fort Washington and Fort Lee have fallen into the hands of the enemy, with a considerable number of prisoners; and our army being reduced to the lowest ebb, discouraged and dispirited, are retreating through the Jerseys, and the enemy in close pursuit. The continental army has even crossed the Delaware, and left the whole state of Jersey in the possession of the royal army. 20th-Another disaster of much importance is the cap- ture of Major-General Lee; on the 13th instant, marching at the head of his division to join the main army, he very incautiously took up his lodgings at a house three or four miles from his troops. Information of this was, by some tories, communicated to Colonel Harcourt of the British light-horse, who resolved to attempt his capture. Accord- ingly, with a detachment of dragoons, he speedily sur- rounded the house; made General Lee his prisoner, and not permitting him time to take his cloak and hat, mounted him on a horse, and in triumph conveyed him to New York. The loss of this favorite general officer, it is feared, will be attended with very serious consequences, as respects MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. 67 the American cause. He was from his youth an officer in the British service, where he sustained a reputation of the highest grade, as a brave and skilful warrior. Having adopted our country, and become a zealous advocate for its liberties, he had acquired the confidence and highest regard of the public, and was exalted to the rank of second in command in our army. Such is now the gloomy aspect of our affairs that the whole country has taken the alarm; strong apprehensions are entertained that the British will soon have it in their power to vanquish the whole of the remains of the con- timental army. The term of service of a considerable part of our troops has nearly expired, and new recruits do not arrive in sufficient numbers to supply their places. His Excellency General Washington is continually making every possible effort to produce a change of circumstan- ces more auspicious to our country. The critical and dis- tressing situation in which he is placed is sufficient to overwhelm the powers of any man of less wisdom and magnanimity than our commander-in-chief. He has the confidence and the affection of the officers and soldiers of the whole army; and there is not perhaps another man to be found so well calculated to discharge the duties of his important and responsible station. It is generally agreed by our officers that, in his retreat through the Jerseys and over the Delaware, under the most pressing difficulties, he displayed the talents and wisdom characteristic of a great military commander, possessing unfailing resources of mind. While retreating through the Jerseys with an army not exceeding three thousand five hundred men, and deeming our cause as almost desperate, he said to Colonel Reed, passing his hand over his throat, “My neck does not feel as though it was made for a halter: we must retire to Augusta county in Virginia, and if overpowerd we must pass the Alleghany mountains.” General Wash- ington at this time was suffering the most agonizing dis- tress for the fate of his army and his country. The king's commissioners, flushed with the success of the royal army, have availed themselves of the occasión, and put forth another proclamation, granting pardons to all those who shall within sixty days subscribe a declaration to re- main peaceable, not to take up arms, nor encourage others 68 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1776. to act against the king's authority; and at the same time, they charge and command all who are assembled in arms against his majesty to disband, and all under the names of general and Provincial Congress committees, &c. to de- sist from their treasonable practices, and relinquish their usurped power within sixty days from the date of the proclamation. This production, couched in the haughty style of royal authority, demands submission of those who have long since been compelled to abjure all allegiance to the British crown. How far the people of this continent may be disposed to retrace their steps, to abandon the government of their choice, relinquish their independence and succumb to arbitrary power, is a point to be decided within sixty days. However apparently forlorn is our situation, we presume to hope that his majesty's commissioners will not realize their sanguine expectations, though British clem- ency on the one hand, and the gallows on the other, may be the alternative. The Congress resolved, on the 12th instant, that it be recommended to all the United States as Soon as possible to appoint a day of fasting and humiliation. This is according to the custom of our pious ancestors in times of imminent dangers and difficulties. Considering the rapid movements of the enemy, and knowing it to be their intention to possess themselves of the city of Phila- delphia, the Congress have resolved to retire to Baltimore in Maryland. They have also ordered, that hand-bills be circulated through the states with the view of rousing the whole people to a sense of the impending danger, and the calamities that will ensue should the enemy succeeded in the attempt to get possession of the capital. 26th.-A singular kind of riot took place in our barracks last evening, attended by some unpleasant consequences. Colonel A. W. of Massachusetts, made choice of his two sons, who were soldiers in his regiment, to discharge the menial duties of waiters, and one of them having been brought up a shoe-maker, the colonel was so inconsiderate as to allow him to work on his bench in the same room with himself. The ridiculous conduct has for some time drawn on the good old man the contemptuous sneers of the gentlemen officers, especially those from Pennsylvania. Lieutenant-Colonel C. of Wayne's regiment, being warmed MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 69 with wine, took on himself the task of reprehending the “Yankee” colonel for thus degrading his rank. With this view he rushed into the room in the evening, and soon despatched the shoe-maker's bench; after which, he made an assault on the colonel's person, and bruised him severely. The noise and confusion soon collected a number of offi- cers and soldiers, and it was a considerable time before the rioters could be quelled. Some of the soldiers of Colonel Wayne's regiment actually took to their arms and dared the Yankees, and then proceeded to the extremity of firing their guns. About thirty or forty rounds were aimed at the soldiers of our regiment, who were driven from their huts and barracks, and several of them were severely wounded. Colonel C., in making an assault on a superior officer, and encouraging a riot, is guilty of one of the highest crimes in our articles of war. It was in the power of Colonel W., and in fact it was his duty, to bring the audacious offenders to exemplary punishment; but, as if to complete the disgrace of the transaction, Colo- nel C. sent some soldiers into the woods to shoot a fat bear, with which he made an entertainment, and invited Colonel W. and his officers to partake of it; this effected a recon- ciliation; and Colonel W. was induced to overlook the high-handed assault on his own person and on the lives of his soldiers. Our colonel is a serious, good man, but is more conversant with the economy of domestic life than the etiquette practised in camp. º 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 re- versed, 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 ad- vanced 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 70 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 thou- sand men. At the head of about two thousand four hun- dred 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 De- cember, during a severe storm of snow and rain. The i. of the boats was rendered extremely difficult and azardous 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 récrossed 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.” LLIV.A.N. I.L. 1). * | ( ; ENERAL JOHN SU MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 71 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 what they term the rebellion, is effectually crushed. In their march through the Jerseys they have committed such licentious ravages and desolation, as must be deemed dis- graceful 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 descrip- tion. 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 advan- tage which General Washington has gained over the royal army by means of a well-concerted stratagem. After his success at Trenton, General Washington received consid- erable reinforcements of troops from Virginia and Mary- land, 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 6 * 72 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. at Princeton, routed them, and drove them from their re- doubts. 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 mil- itia. The fact is published, that after General Mercer sur- rendered 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 con- founded 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 Prince- ton, 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. Strat- agems in war, when wisely concerted, and judiciously ex- ecuted, 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 recolle&tion 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 General- issimo 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 III. --- nºn | | | "|| | | lili ||||||||||| ||||||||||| - | liiiniii. ||||||||||| | - III. iiii. ||||||| ||||||||| | | | | | | | | | | | - |||||||||||| |||||| ||||||||| | | III. | | | | || | | | | | | - | ||Nº|| | | ||||||| | | | | - I ſº | |||| - - | | III ||||| | | - | | | | | ºf |I|| | | | | º ||| | | º - |||||| - |ºſ" | | |ſ|| | - | ||||| | | |||||||| - º º º \!\!\!\! ||||| |\º "I'll I | | | ||| lº | -- º - - º ||||||||llº º I | "Sºm" m n | º/ º - -- |º -ºº - MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 73 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, com- manding 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 en- listing 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 ene- my, 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 Gen- eral Washington and General Howe has taken place rela- tive 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 com- mission long before he 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 Gen- eral Lee, that being considered as the usual proportion for 74. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 pre- scribed for prisoners of war. If this should be refused, General Howe was assured, that the unpleasant expedient of retaliation should be immediately adopted. This un- happy 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 Hes- sian 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 rigor- ous treatment which it has been ascertained is inflicted on the person of General Lee. Lieutenant-Colonel Camp- bell, being on parole near Boston, is confined in the jail at Concord. In a letter to Géneral 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 privi- leges which his rank demands, by first relaxing his sever- ity, and complying with the rules of war, as respects General Lee; it being the determination of our govern- ment to place the British prisoners in precisely the same circumstances with our prisoners in their custody. M leisure hours permit me to advert to another subject wº 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 75 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 tor- tured 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 sum- mary 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 instan- ces, 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 pos- sible 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 tan- talized by the British officers and malicious tories, cursing 76 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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.” But, it may be inquired, if I mean to describe the British com- manders 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 de- rive our origin, and who are inviting the Americans to a reconciliation? A more dreadful curse can scarcely be de- nounced! It is worthy of observation, that the British and Hessian prisoners in our hands 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 * 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 particu- larly know was treated in this manner. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 77 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 wan- tonly 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 re- cords 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; disfigured private dwellings of taste and elegance, and, in the rage of impiety and barbarism, profaned edifices dedi- cated 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 pris. oners, 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 over- took part of them, and killed several, but the prisoners were carried off beyond his reach. - 78 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 de- posited 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 in- vitation 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 under- taken 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, con- sisting 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 *\ MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 79 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-Colo- nel 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 con- siderable. 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 prac- tices, they having induced a number of others to enlist in 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 appoint- ed 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 Ticon- deroga, 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 junc- tion at Albany. Here, probably, the three commanders 80 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. are to congratulate each other on their mighty achieve- ments, and the flattering prospect of crushing the rebellion. This being accomplished, the communication between the southern and eastërn 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 Inde- pendence, 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 com- munication 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, widen- ing 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, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 81 rear their lofty heads; there the diminutive shrub forms a thicket for the retreat of wild beasts. Looking south- west 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 for- tress 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, enu- merating 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 satisfied 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 mili- tia of New England are daily coming in to increase our strength; the number of our troops, and our ability to de- fend the works against the approaching enemy, are con- siderations 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 82 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 26.-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 gain- ing 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 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 in- tends 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 prox. imity, 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 suf. ficient 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 extraordinary 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. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 83 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 morn- ing of the 6th, we commenced our voyage up the South bay to Skeensboro’, about thirty miles. Our fleet con: sisted 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 gal- lies. 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 gal- lies 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 una- Vailing, and in the utmost panic they were seen to fly in 84 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 instantl followed in the train of our retreating party. We .. 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 réinforcement 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, sin- gular 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 Mas- sachusetts, and which were now returned to me. Fort Anne 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 85 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, com- manded 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 distin- guished 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 re- mains 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 Independ- ence 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, 86 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. apparently so calamitous, will ultimately prove advantage- ous, 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 Al- bany, 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 mili- tia, 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 sen- tinels, 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 répassing the water guards, General Prescott said to Colonel Barton, “Sir, I did not think it possible you could escape the vigil- ance 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 №ſ: º ， ！ * ·-* … • T • · · · · ~º:º.rº， ºſº，zºº, * · · ~~~~22222; • ? º. … ****） ）,...， •••••• × *… „ // % 'ſ/ // / . º . （ ººº ！！！ ... - * * · · - MAJOR GENERAL Philip schuyler. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 87 ample retaliation for the capture of General Lee by Colo- nel Harcourt. The event occasions great joy and exulta- tion, 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 par- agraphs. 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 act- uated 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 pros- titution 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 ag- gressor; we appeal to the hearts of all mankind for the justice of our cause; its event we submit to Him who speaks *: fate of nations, in humble confidence that, as 88 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. his omniscient eye taketh note even of the sparrow that falleth to the ground, so He will not withdraw his counte- nance 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 conse- quences 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 formida- ble 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 unfor- tunately he fell into an ambuscade and suffered a consid- erable 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 re- mainder, 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 89 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 pro- portion 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 pos- session of the fort; for this purpose he sent in a flag de- manding 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 Gen- eral 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 réinforcement of one thousand light troops. An object which cannot be accomplished by force is often obtained by means of stratagem. Lieutenant-Colo- nel 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 mes- senger 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 In- dians 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 90 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 fol- lowed, 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 de- serted by his Indians, to the number of seven or eight hundred, deemed his situation so hazardous that he de- Camped 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 91 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 unim- portant 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 réinforcements 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 com- pelled 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, how- ever, surmounted numerous difficulties, and reached the vicinity of Saratoga. Finding himself in want of provi- sions, horses to mount his cavalry, and teams to transport his stores and baggage, he resorted to one of the most chi- merical and romantic projects that could enter the imagi- nation 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 pro- duced 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 Rock- ingham to Otter creek, to get horses, carriages, and cattle, and mount 92 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 Gen- eral 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 taa: 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 betler. 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 calcu- lations, 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 Grean Mountain Boys. He advanced towards the enemy to reconnoitre their posi- tion, 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 réinforcement. 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 Colo- nel 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, en- deavored to make their escape in a single file between the MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 93 two parties, with their horrid yells and jingling of cow- bells. 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 réinforce 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 . displayed the most daring bravery, till night approached, when the enemy yielded a second time in one day to their Yankee conquerors. The Ger- man troops being totally routed, availed themselves of the darkness of night to effect their retreat. The whole num- ber 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 thous- and 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 94 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. disciplined troops completely accoutred, while they wielded their ordinary firelocks with scarce a bayonet, and at first without cannon. The consequences must be most auspi- cious 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 mame has not been ascertained. A venerable old man had five sons in the field of battle near Benning- , ton, and being told that he 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 hands 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 depart- ment, 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 26.-General Gates has issued a proclamation to counteract any influence which Burgoyne's sanguinary manifesto might have produced, interdicting all communi- cation with the royal army, and endeavoring to calm the fears of the inhabitants, by promising them all the pro- tection in his power. Burgoyne's manifesto, however, denouncing fire and sword, instead of alarming into sub. mission, excites universal indignation and contempt; in- stead 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 SN 2:sº º SNN wº * .** * - * John ADAMs. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 95 indeed before some innocent persons were made victims of savage barbarity, by means of the tomahawk and scalping-knife, in the hands 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 indis- cretion 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 imme- diately 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 char- acter and amiable disposition, engaged to be married to an officer in your army, was, with other women and chil- dren, 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 receiye.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, he 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 96 . MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. that he obliged the Indians to give up the murderer into his hands, and he certainly should have suffered an igno- minious 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 contem- plated with horror and detestation by all ranks of people, except their friends and adherents. It is impossible not to detest that cause and that army which accepts the aid of sav- age 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 In- dians 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 them- selves 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 ascer- tained that Burgoyne has crossed the Hudson, and en- camped 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 deter- mined 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 ap MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 97 pointed to face the enemy's main army at the northward. If the murder of aged parents, with their innocent chil- dren; 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, yester- day, 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 sub- jected 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 98 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 réinforced, the Americans are baffled; these, being supported and re- newing their efforts, régain their advantages; the same ground is occupied alternately, the dead and wounded of both parties are mingled together. The British resort re- peatedly to their bayonets without effect—the Americans resist and foil their attempts. Captain Jones, of the Brit- ish 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 rétaken, 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 op- portunity 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 marks- man to be the British commander. In the dusk of even- ing 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 thou- sand 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 99 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 ad- vantages 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 with- out 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 gun- boats, 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 oc- casion 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 circum- stances, 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. 100 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 4th.-By intelligence from camp, it appears that Bur- goyne 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 Cana- dians 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 en- counter the prowess of European veterans, and the pecu- liar 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 Provi- dence, be finally enabled to destroy or capture the whole British army. Our troops are panting for another oppor- tunity of displaying their valor, and another dreadful conflict is daily expected; alternate hopes and fears con- tinually 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 lib- erate Burgoyne, and he would probably force his way to this city. In either event, the consequences must be ex- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 101 ceedingly 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 irrepara- ble 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 after- noon, 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, com- menced the action, and rushed courageously on the British grenadiers, commanded by Major Ackland; and the furi- ous 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 ter- rors; 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 assault- ed 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, 102 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 Ar- nold, 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.” Sir Francis Clark, aid-de-camp to Gen- eral 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 * 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 officerſ—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. 。 £ £ £ž ، ، ، ، •， →*、、。 ±，±，±）, · Taeae: MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 103 moved from his position, and on the 8th there was con- siderable 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, up- wards 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 imme- diately 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 devasta- tions, 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 deplora- ble, 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 mus- ket-ball while in the engagement with the enemy on the 7th instant. He is very peevish, and impatient under his misfortunes, and required all my attention during the night, but I devoted an hour in writing a letter to a friend in Boston, detailing the particulars of the late battle. In the severe battle .# the 7th, General Burgoyne him- Self, it is now ascertained, had a hair breadth escape, hav- ing one bullet pass through his hat and another tore his waistcoat.* * The following anecdote shows the imminent danger to which a part General gues army was at one time exposed. General Gates had 104 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 surren- der 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 Clin- ton 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 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: un- known 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 com- municated 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-gen- eral, 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 disap- pointment that he was {i. in this stratagem; and Americans ought never to forget the remarkable Providential escape. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 105 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 hap- pened that most of the continenial 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 sur- render of the forts, which being resolutely refused, were taken by assault, though not without a firm and brave re- sistance. 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 a 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 wan- ton 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 hor- rid effects of malice and revenge; where they cannot con- quer, 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 confla- gration 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 diffi- culty, by placing him between two armies, and thereby 106 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. extricating Burgoyne from his perilous situation. We have been tremblingly alive to this menacing prospect, but our fears 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; for- tunately 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 Fº the happiest effect as respects the prescriber; ut 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 con- flict against any force you could bring to attack him. “He is apprised of the superiority of your numbers, and the disposi- tion 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 107 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-mor- row 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 arm- ing 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 de- posited 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 del- icacy 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 satis- faction to which they are justly entitled.* The preliminaries having been acceded to by the two * For the first interview between the royal general officers and their conqueror, see Life of General Gates, in the Appendix. 108 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. commanders, Lieutenant-Colonel Wilkinson, deputy ad- jutant-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 par- ticular 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 Montgom- ery, 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 had been detached from the army during the negotiation; and with a bold effrontery, required that he might be permitted to send two officers to owr camp to ascertain the fact. This dishonorable conduct, as may be supposed, raised the ire of our spirited com- mander, who sent Lieutenant-Colonel Wilkinson to have a personal interview with Burgoyne, and to insist that hostilities should récommence, if the treaty was not imme- diately 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 Montgom- ery, and the serious apprehensions of General Gates that he would force his way to Albany, and the desire of the MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 109 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 Amer- ican 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 prop- erly 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 cam- paign, was full ten thousand strong; the deficiency now, must be accounted for by the killed, loss by sickness, pris- oners and deserters. Among the officers taken, are six members of the British Parliament. The train of brass artillery and other ordnance are immensely valuable, con- sisting 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 incalcu- lable 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 dele. gates to supplicate his favor and clemency, and threatening yengeance against all those who should dare to disobey his commands, or oppose his authority. There are per- haps few examples in the annals of warfare, of a whole army under a celebrated general, and officers of the first 110 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 magna- nimity 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 con- queror, 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 two- wheeled 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 permit- ting 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 111 boat till Major Dearborn, the officer of the guard, could arrive. He permitted them to land, and afforded Lady Ack- land 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 be- stowed 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 ac- knowledged 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 mili- tary 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! 112 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 21st.—The captive Generals Burgoyne, Phillips, Reide. Sel, &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 gen- erations 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 of. ficers, 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 magnani- mously 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 man- agement 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 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 113 patients. Here is a fine field for professional improvement. Amputating limbs, trepanning fractured skulls, and dress- ing 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 commiseration. 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 af. flicting 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 re- ceived 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 for- tunate for the brave fellow that his skull proved too thick for the ball to penetrate. But in another instance, a sol- 114 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. dier'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 cow- ard. 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 sud- denly 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 hold 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 immedi- ately 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 in- strument, besides a wound in his side and another through his arm by a musket-ball. This unfortunate man, after MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 115 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 pre- serve 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, adjust- ing 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, orna- mented 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, faneiffity arranged about the legs and feet. Several of the yoting 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 116 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 com- menced 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 black- ened 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 con- tinued 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 pre- clude the possibility of journalizing to the full extent of my wishes. The numerous important events which have occurred to our main army undér. Gºfferal 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 | | | | ||||| | | | | | º | | | ºn sa, |. | | º º --- / MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 117 other in the order of battle, and a general action took Fº at Brandywine, in which the officers and soldiers of oth 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 Gen- eral 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 ex- pense 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 in- habitants, 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 Ger- mantown, 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 in- dividuals, his most sanguine hopes would have been real- ized. 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 rétaken. Almost the 118 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 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 Wash- ington'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 circum- stance, by concealing from us the true situation of the enemy, obliged us to act with more caution and less ex- pedition 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 be- lieve more than any thing else, contributed to the misfor- tunes 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 vic- tory, 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 considera- ble annoyance, and in a measmre 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 ascer- tained. 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. Gen- eral Kniphausen was wounded, and a great number of rank and file were wounded and slain. The Americans have erected several forts and redoubts Øy SS S. % - * ·Z·%% | 2： ſae ）ſ ſºſ //' , !"|||//| # { MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. * 119 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 sur- render, 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 fied 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 che- vaua 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 for- midable obstructions, and he ordered six of his ships to engage in this service. They were so unmercifully han- dled by our galleys, and from Fort Mifflin, at Mud Island, that two of them, one of sixty-four guns, run aground and 9 120 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777, were set on fire by the crews, who deserted them, and soon after they blew up. December.—Fort Mifflin, on Mud Island, has been evacu- ated by the continental garrison, after having been bravely defended against the prodigious force of the enemy's ship- ping. ... 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 occa- sions 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 au- thor'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 de- sist from hostilities and to rescind their declaration of Independence. If this is not done, he says, “You have an infallible resource still left, negotiate for America at the head of your army.” He represents the Congress in the MILITARY JOURNAL, 1777. 121 most despicable point of view, as consising of weak, ob- scure persons, not fit associates for his excellency, and the very dregs of the first Congress. The New England del- egates he treats with the greatest indelicacy. The officers and men which compose our army, he describes as desti- tute of principle and courage; undisciplined, taken from the lowest of the people, unfit for a seat at his excellency's table, &c., &c. Thus has this vile calumniator disgraced his profession, and involved his own character in that ignominy which he designed for his superiors. His ex- cellency in noticing this transaction in a letter of October the 16th, observes, “To Mr. Duche's ridiculous, illiberal Fº I made a very short reply, by desiring the earer, Mrs. Ferguson, if she should hereafter, by an accident meet with Mr. Duche, to tell him I should have returned his letter unopened if I had had any idea of its contents.” 20th.--The wounded soldiers committed to my care in * The following is the form of prayer made use of by the Reverend Mr. Duche in the Congress after Independence was declared: “O Lord! our heavenly Father, high and mighty, King of kings, and Lord of lords, who dost from thy throne behold all, the dwellers on earth, and reignest with power supreme and uncontroled over all king- doms, empires and governments. Look down in mercy, we beseech thee, on these our American states, who have fled to thee from the rod of the oppressor, and thrown themselves on thy gracious protection, desiring to be henceforth dependent only on thee; to thee have they appealed for the righteousness of their cause; to thee do they now look up for that countenance and support, which thou alone canst give; take them, therefore, heavenly Father, under thy nurturing care; give them wisdom in council, and valor in the field; defeat the malicious designs of our cruel adversaries; convince them of the unrighteousness of their cause, and if they still persist in their sanguinary purposes, O! let the voice of thine own unerring justice, sounding in their hearts, constrain them to drop the weapons of war from their unnerved hands in the day of battle. Be thou present, O God of wisdom, and direct the councils of this honorable assembly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundation, that the scene of blood may be speedily closed, that order, harmony and peace may be effectually restored, and truth and justice, religion and piety, prevail and flourish amongst thy people; preserve the health of their bodies and the vigor of their minds; shower down on them, and the millions they here represent, such temporal bless- ings, as thou Seest expedient for them in this world, and crown them with everlasting glory in the world to come. All this we ask in the A: and through the merits of Jesus Christ thy Son and our Saviour. MEN. 122 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. October last, have all recovered, and as a compliment for my assiduity, and attention to my patients, I have received from Dr. Potts, our surgeon-general, a generous and hand- Some present. The duties of our hospital being now greatly diminished, I have obtained a furlough for forty days, and shall to-morrow commence my journey to visit my friends in New England. * * February 4th, 1778.-Having performed a journey on horseback to Boston and Barnstable, in Massachusetts, I returned here two days before the expiration of my fur- lough, and resumed my duties in the hospital. Several gentlemen belonging to the hospital being desirous of im- proving in the accomplishment of dancing, Mr. John Trot- ter has agreed to open a special school for our accommoda- tion and we are to attend every afternoon. Master Trotter has for many years been in the practice of teaching the art in the city of New York, and has acquired great fame as a man of knowledge and experience in his profession. He is about fifty-eight years of age, a small, genteel, well-pro- portioned man, every limb and joint proclaiming that he is formed for his profession; and the ease and grace with which he moves on the floor, evince that he is an accom- plished master, and that he has lost none of his agility by age. Under the tuition of such a master, we flatter our- Selves that in due time, if we improve our advantages, we shall be able to figure in a ball-room. 10th.-I have now obtained a particular description of . the American Torpedo, and other ingenious submarine machinery, invented by Mr. David Bushnell, for the pur- pose of destroying shipping while at anchor, some account of which may be found in this Journal, page 62. The external appearance of the torpedo bears some resem- blance to two upper tortoise shells, of equal size, placed in contact, leaving, at that part which represents the head of the animal, a flue or opening, sufficiently capacious to contain the operator, and air to support him thirty minutes. At the bottom, opposite to the entrance, is placed a quantity of lead for ballast. The operator sits upright, and holds an oar for rowing forward or backward, and is furnished with a rudder for steering. An aperture at the bottom, with its valve, admits water for the purpose of descending, and two brass forcing pumps serve to eject the water with- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 123 in, when necessary for ascending. The vessel is made completely water-tight, furnished with glass windows for the admission of light, with ventilators and air-pipes, and is so ballasted, with lead fixed at the bottom, as to render it solid, and obviate all danger of oversetting. Behind the submarine vessel, is a place above the rudder for carrying a large powder magazine; this is made of two pieces of oak timber, large enough, when hollowed out, to contain one hundred and fifty pounds of powder, with the apparatus used for firing it, and is secured in its place by a screw turned by the operator. It is lighter than water, that it may rise against the object to which it is intended to be fastened. Within the magazine, is an apparatus constructed to run any proposed length of time under twelve hours; when it has run out its time, it un- pinions a strong lock, resembling a gun-lock, which gives fire to the powder. This apparatus is so pinioned, that it cannot possibly move, till, by casting off the magazine from the vessel, it is set in motion. The skilful operator can swim so low on the surface of the water, as to ap- proach very near a ship in the night, without fear of being discovered; and may, if he choose, approach the stern or stem, above water, with very little danger. He can sink very quickly, keep at any necessary depth, and row a great distance in any direction he desires without coming to the surface. When he rises to the surface, he can soon obtain a fresh supply of air, and, if necessary, he may then de- scend again and pursue his course. Mr. Bushnell found that it required many trials and considerable instruction to make a man of common ingenuity a skilful operator. The first person, his brother, whom he employed, was very ingenious, and made himself master of the business, but was taken sick before he had an opportunity to make use of his skill. Having procured a substitute, and given him such instruction as time would allow, he was directed to try an experiment on the Eagle, a sixty-four-gun ship, on board of which Lord Howe commanded, lying in the har- bor of New York. He went under the ship, and at- tempted to fix the wooden screw into her bottom, but struck, as he supposes, a bar of iron which passes from the rudder hinge, and is spiked under the ship's quarter Had he moved a few inches, which he might have done 124 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. without rowing, there is no doubt he would have found wood where he might have fixed the screw; or if the ship had been sheathed with copper, he might easily have pierced it. But not being well skilled in the management of the vessel, in attempting to move to another place, he lost the ship. After seeking her in vain, for some time, he rowed some distance, and rose to the surface of the water, but found day-light had advanced so far, that he durst not renew the attempt. He says that he could easily have fastened the magazine under the stern of the ship, above water, as he rowed up to the stern and touched it before he descended. Had he fastened it there, the explo- sion of one hundred and fifty pounds of powder, the quantity contained in the magazine, must have been fatal to the ship. In his return from the ship to New York, he passed near Governor's Island, and thought he was discovered by the enemy on the island. Being in haste, to avoid the danger he feared, he cast off the magazine, as he imagined it retarded him in the swell, which was very considerable. After the magazine had been cast off one hour, the time the internal apparatus was set to run, it blew up with great violence, throwing a vast column of water to an amazing height in the air, and leaving the enemy to conjecture whether the stupendous noise was produced by a bomb, a meteor, a water-spout, or an earth- quake. Some other attempts were made in Hudson's river, in one of which the operator, in going towards the ship, lost sight of her and went a great distance beyond her, and the tide ran so strong as to baffle all his efforts. Mr. Bushnell being in ill health, and destitute of resources, was obliged to abandon his pursuit at that time, and wait for a more favorable opportunity, which never occurred. In the year 1777, Mr. Bushnell made an attempt from a whale-boat, against the Cerberus frigate lying at anchor, by drawing a machine against her side, by means of a line. The machine was loaded with powder, to be exploded by a gun-lock, which was to be unpinioned by an apparatus to be turned by being brought alongside of the frigate. This machine fell in with a schooner at anchor astern of the frigate, and concealed from his sight. By some means it became fixed, and exploding, demolished the schooner. Commodore Simmons, being on board the Cerberus, ad- MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 125 dressed an official letter to Sir Peter Parker, describing this singular disaster. Being at anchor to the westward of New London, with a schooner which he had taken, discovered about eleven o'clock in the evening a line tow- ing astern from the bows. He believed that some person had veered away by it, and immediately began to haul in. A sailor, belonging to the schooner, taking it for a fishing- line, laid hold of it, and drew in about fifteen fathoms. It was buoyed up by small pieces of wood tied to it at stated distances. At the end of the rope a machine was fastened, too heavy for one man to pull up, for it exceeded one hundred pounds in weight. The other people of the Schooner coming to his assistance, they drew it on deck. While the men were examining the machine, about five minutes from the time the wheel had been put in motion, it exploded, blew the vessel into pieces, and set her on fire. Three men were killed, and the fourth blown into the water, much injured. On examining round the ship, after this accident, the other part of the line was discovered, buoyed up in the same manner. This the commodore ordered to be instantly cut away, for fear of hauling up another of the infernals, as he termed it. These machines were constructed with wheels, furnished with irons sharp- ened at the end, and projecting about an inch, in order to strike the sides of the vessel when hauling them up, there- by setting the wheels in motion, which in the space of five minutes causes the explosion. Had the whole apparatus been brought to operate on a ship at the same time, it must have occasioned prodigious destruction. Mr. Bush- nell contrived another ingenious expedient to effect his favorite object. He fixed a large number of kegs under water, charged with powder, to explode on coming in con- tact with any thing while floating along with the tide. He set his squadron of kegs afloat in the Delaware, above the English shipping, in December, 1777. The kegs were in the night set adrift, to fall with the ebb, on the shipping; but the proper distance could not be well ascertained, and they were set adrift at too great a distance from the vessels, by which means they were obstructed and dispersed by the ice. They approached, however, in the day time, and one of them blew up a boat, and others exploded, which º among the British seamen the greatest alarm l 126 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. and consternation. They actually manned the wharves and shipping at Philadelphia, and discharged their small arms and cannon at every thing they could see floating in the river, during the ebb tide. This incident has re- ceived the name of the Battle of the Kegs, and furnished a subject for an excellent and humorous song by the Honorable Francis Hopkinson, which is inserted in the Appendix. April–Major-General Lee, captured by the enemy in December, 1776, has been exchanged for Major-General Prescott, who was taken at Rhode Island, by Colonel Barton. The glorious intelligence being announced, that Con- gress have negotiated a treaty of alliance with the Court of France, General Washington has issued the following orders for the army to celebrate the momentous event: “Head Quarters, Camp, Valley Forge, May 5th, 1778. “It having pleased the Almighty Ruler of the Universe propitiously to defend the cause of the United American States, and finally, by rais- ing us up a powerful friend among the princes of the earth, to establish our liberty and independence on a lasting foundation; it becomes us to set apart a day for gratefully acknowledging the Divine goodness, and celebrating the important event which we owe to His benign interposition. “The several brigades are to be assembled for this purpose at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, when their chaplains will communicate the intelligence contained in the PostScript to the Pennsylvania Gazette of the second instant, and offer up a Thanksgiving, and deliver a discourse suitable to the occasion. e “At half-past ten o'clock a cannon will be fired, which is to be a sig- mal for the men to be under arms. The brigade inspectors will then inspect their dress and arms, form the battalions according to the instruc- tions given them, and announce to the commanding officers of brigades that the battalions are formed. The brigadiers and commandants will then appoint the field-officers to command the battalions; after which, each battalion will be ordered to load and ground their arms.-At half- past eleven, another cannon will be fired as a signal for the march; on which the several brigades will begin their march by wheeling to the right by platoons, and proceed by the nearest way to the left of their ground, in the new position that will be pointed out by the brigade inspectors.-A third signal will be given, on which there will be a dis- charge of thirteen cannon: when the thirteenth has fired, a running fire of the infantry will begin on the right of Woodford's, and continue throughout the whole front line; it will then be taken up on the left of the second line, and continue to the right—on a signal given, the whole army will huzza—Long live the King of France! “The artillery will then begin again, and fire thirteen rounds. This will be succeeded by a second general discharge of the musketry in a MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 12/ running fire—Huzzat long live the Friendly European Powers : . Then the last discharge of thirteen pieces of artillery will be given, followed by a general running fire—Huzza for the American States 1" Agreebly to the above orders, his Excellency General Washington, his lady and suite, Lord Stirling, the Coun- tess of Stirling, with other general officers and ladies, at- tended at nine o'clock at the Jersey brigade, when the PostScript mentioned above, was read, and after prayer a suitable discourse delivered to Lord Stirling's division by the Rev. Mr. Hunter. . - On the signal at half-after eleven, the whole army re- paired to their alarm-posts; on which General Washing- ton, accompanied by the general officers, reviewed the whole army at their respective posts; and after the firing of the cannon and musketry, and the huzzas were given agreeably to the orders, the army returned to their re- spective brigade parades, and were dismissed. All the officers of the army then assembled, and partook of a collation provided by the general, at which several patriotic toasts were given, accompanied with three cheers. His excellency took leave of the officers at five o'clock, on which there was universal huzzaing—Long live General Washington /—and clapping of hands till the general rode Some distance. The non-commissioned officers and pri- vates followed the example of their officers as the general passed their brigades. Approbation indeed was conspicu- ous in every countenance, and universal joy reigned throughout the camp. My friend, Major Minnis, from head-quarters at Valley Forge, has detailed to me the particular circumstances of the distress and privations which our army suffered, while in winter-quarters at that place, the last winter. In the month of December, the troops were employed in erecting log huts for winter-quarters, when about one-half of the men were destitute of small-clothes, shoes, and stockings; Some thousands were without blankets, and were obliged to warm themselves over fires all night, after the fatigues of the day, instead of reposing in comfortable lodgings. At one time nearly three thousand men were returned unfit for duty, from the want of clothing, and it was not uncommon to track the march of the men over ice and frozen ground, by the blood from their naked feet. Sev- 128 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. eral times during the winter, they experienced little less than a famine in camp; and more than once our general officers were alarmed by the fear of a total dissolution of the army from the want of provisions. For two or three weeks in succession, the men were on half-allowance, and for four or five days without bread, and again as many without beef or pork. It was with great difficulty that men enough could be found in a condition fit to discharge the military camp duties from day to day, and for this i. those who were naked, borrowed from those who ad clothes. It cannot be deemed strange that sickness and mortality were the consequence of such privations, in the midst of an inclement season. Under these unexam- pled sufferings, the soldiers exercised a degree of patience and fortitude, which reflects on them the highest honor, and which ought ever to entitle them to the gratitude of their country. The army indeed was not without conso- lation, for his excellency the commander-in-chief, whom every soldier venerates and loves, manifested a fatherly concern and fellow-feeling for their sufferings, and made every exertion in his power to remedy the evil, and to administer the much-desired relief. Being authorized by Congress, he reluctantly resorted to the unpopular expe- dient of taking provisions from the inhabitants by force, and thus procured a small supply for immediate necessity.” This was the unhappy condition of that army, on whom General Washington had to rely for the defence of every thing held most dear by Americans, and this, too, while situated within sixteen miles of a powerful adversary, with a greatly superior army of veterans, watching with a vigil- ant eye for an opportunity to effect its destruction. But a fact which excites the greatest indignation and astonish- * It was on this occasion that a foreign officer of distinction said to a friend of mine, that he despaired of our Independence, for while walk- ing with General Washington, along the soldiers' huts, he heard from many voices echoing through the open crevices between the logs, “No pay, no clothes, no provisions, no rum,” and when a miserable being was seen flitting from one hut to another, his nakednesss was only covered by a dirty blanket. It will be difficult to form a just conception of the emotions of grief and sorrow which must have harrowed up the soul of our illustrious patriot and philanthropist. In this darkening hour of adversity, any man who possesses less firmness than Washington, would despair of our Independence. -MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 129 ment is, that, at the critical period above mentioned, a party in Congress, in concert with General Conway, was endeavoring to remove General Washington from the supreme command. If the American army is to be anni- hilated, and the cause of our country sacrificed to gratify individual ambition, then is there a faction ripe for the execution of the object. No man, perhaps, ever had a greater combination of vexatious evils and uncontrollable obstacles to encounter, than this incomparable patriot and warrior; and no one surely ever possessed in a more emi- ment degree the peculiar talents and qualities requisite for the discharge of the important duties assigned him in his elevated station. He has acquired the full confidence of every faithful officer and soldier under his command, and his wisdom and judgment are considered adequate to the most trying exigencies. He rises in the midst of dis- tress, and gains strength by misfortunes. The Assembly of Pennsylvania, and a certain party in our Congress, en- tertain an idea that the royal army was permitted to take possession of Philadelphia by the timidity, or by the ex- cessive caution, of our commander-in-chief. It is well known, that from necessity he has evinced himself more the disciple of Fabius Maximus, than of Marcellus. He temporizes, and acts on the defensive, when a superior force and the peculiar circumstances of his army compel him to adopt such conduct. But no one will deny that he has displayed the greatest courage in opposing danger, and the greatest presence of mind in retreating from it. He has perplexed the enemy by his judicious manoeuvres, and braved him frequently in his camp; and it is by his superior generalship, and the unfailing resources of his mind, that the enemy was not sooner in possession of Philadelphia, and that our feeble, half-starved, naked army, has not been entirely destroyed. The candidates who have been named to supersede his excellency in the su- preme command, are Generals Lee, Mifflin, Gates and Conway. Lee has many advocates in his favor. Mifflin has no claim, and it is believed no desire, to be elevated to this highly responsible station. The splendid achieve- ment of General Gates at Saratoga is auspicious to his preferment, but even the officers and soldiers who served under him in the northern army, would not willingly 130 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. yield their attachment to their beloved Washington, in whose wisdom and judgment they repose such unbounded confidence. It is most unfortunate that Congress appears to be split into factions at this eventful period, when the salvation of our country depends on the harmony and unanimity in our councils. A strong party exists in this body, who are exerting every nerve to effect their favorite scheme of elevating General Gates to the supreme com- mand. This gentleman is made the object of their applause and caresses, though he has been deficient in duty and respect in his official station, in not communicating to the commander-in-chief the important intelligence of the cap- ture of General Burgoyne and his army. General Conway, a French gentleman, has been appointed by Congress in- spector-general, with the rank of major-general, over a number of brigadiers of regular standing, and this, even when it was notorious that he was inimical to the com- mander-in-chief, and the author of letters in which his excellency's character is basely aspersed and calumniated. These unhappy dissensions and jealousies occCasion the greatest Solicitude in our army, and consequences of a fatal tendency are seriously apprehended. The brigadiers and a number of colonels have remonstrated in strong terms to Congress respecting the preferment of General Conway. The machinations of this insolent foreigner have at length recoiled on his own head. Having, by his vile intrigue and insufferable effrontery, rendered himself an object of disgust in his station, he has been induced to resign his commission, and has withdrawn himself from the army.* On this serious occasion, the character of Washington was found unassailable, and it shines with redoubled lustre. His excellency displays a noble magnanimity in overlook- ing a want of confidence in his skill and judgment in his profession. Envy and malice are ever attendant on exalted station and superior merit. * General Conway, after his resignation, was challenged by General Cadwalader, for his conduct, and in the combat he received a wound which he supposed to be a mortal one; and conceiving death to be near at hand, he conducted honorably in addressing to General Washington a letter of apology. . Further particulars relative to this unpleasant busi- ness may be found in the characters of Lee, Gates and Conway, in the Appendix. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 131 May 16th.-In various parts of this state the inhabitants are constantly infested with a banditti of tories and other villains, following the practice of robbing and plundering, stealing horses and cattle, and often committing murder on those who oppose them; and even on innocent persons. A number of these vile wretches have been apprehended and condemned; two of them were executed yesterday. They had been convicted of robbing the house of Mr. Van Ness, whose son, being a captain in our militia, was taken by them and cruelly murdered. The criminals were conducted to the gallows by a guard of soldiers, and were attended by a prodigious number of spectators. They manifested, at the gallows, the most agonizing horrors. One of them held in his hand a Bible till the halter de- prived him of the power of holding it. Had this sacred volume been his companion in early life, it might have been the means of averting this awful and untimely death. 20th.-I attended the judicial court at the City Hall for the trial of a number of criminals accused of house rob- bery, horse stealing, and murder, among the defenceless inhabitants on our frontiers. No less than ten of these miscreants were arraigned at the bar. The jury brought in a verdict of guilty against the whole number. Judge John Jay, who officiated on the bench, pronounced the awful sentence of death, and addressed them in a very Solemn and affecting manner, calculated to rouse them to a sense of their dreadful condition, and in a moving and pathetic strain, enjoined it on them to prepare to meet their God. This scene was rendered the more melancholy, by observing among the criminals a grey-headed man of seventy years, and his son about twenty. The criminality of the son admits of some extenuation from his ignorance and the example of his father. The youth was afterwards pardoned; but the old man, with several others, expiated their crimes by a public execution on the gallows. In the town of Schoharie, about thirty miles from this city, a company of our troops, under the command of Cap- tain Patrick, has been for some time stationed for the pur- pose of guarding the inhabitants against the incursions and cruel ravages of the lndians and tories. We have just received the melancholy intelligence, that about two hundred Indians and their tory allies, fell on our party by 132 *d MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. surprise, killed the captain and all but fifteen men, and most of the inhabitants shared the same miserable fate. The bodies were cut and mangled in a savage manner, and some of them were scalped. June 1st.—Orders have been received for the removal of our hospital from this city to the highlands, on the Hudson river, where our whole army, it is said, is about to assemble. During my residence in this city, I have contracted but a limited acquaintance with the inhabitants. They are chiefly Low Dutch, and not much inclined to associate with strangers. There are, however, several families of respectability and fashion, who have taken refuge here from New York, among whom are some ami- able and accomplished ladies, in whose society I have been permitted to enjoy a social intercourse. The charming Miss M. H. has captivated the heart, and is destined to receive the hand of my excellent friend Dr. W. P. S., an auspicious union of congenial souls. But in military life our associates must be chiefly those of a military character. In a society of about thirty professional gentlemen, har- monizing in similar pursuits and inclinations, our sympa- thies and mutual pleasures are mingled, and raised to a state of the purest enjoyment. We are now to be sepa- rated, and subjected to vicissitudes and incidents beyond our calculation. Three of our number are to continue with the sick in this place, and the remainder are destined to a new situation. 5th.-We embarked with our hospital stores and bag- gage on board of a sloop, and proceeded with a fair wind down the Hudson. In the evening we landed at Kinder- hook, a small town on the bank of the river. 7th.-Arrived at Fishkill, where we replenished our stock of provisions. * 10th.-Proceeded on our voyage, took in a pilot at New Windsor, lodged on board, and on the 11th reached the place of our destination, landed our stores and baggage, and took possession of the house which we are to occupy for a hospital. This house was erected by Colonel Beverly Robinson, a respectable gentleman from Scotland, for his summer residence, but being induced to adhere to the British interest, he has, with his excellent family, removed to New York, and thereby forfeited his large estate. This MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 133 is a spacious and very convenient building, situated on the eastern bank of the Hudson, about two miles from West Point, which is on the opposite shore. Robinson's house, with the out-buildings, is found very convenient for a hospital; the farm and gardens are very extensive, afford- ing excellent pasturing for horses and cows, and contain- ing three or four large orchards, abounding in fruit of various descriptions. In the location of a country-seat, the judgment of Colonel Robinson is not much to be ad- mired, unless he was guided altogether by a taste for romantic singularity and novelty. It is surrounded on two sides by hideous mountains and dreary forests, not a house in view, and but one within a mile. The Hudson, which washes the borders of this farm, affords a facility of communication with New York and with Albany; and the excursion up or down the river is truly romantic; nature exhibits a diversified scenery of wild mountains, craggy precipices, and noble lofty cliffs, on each side the river, which at this place is about one mile wide. The bank on the west side is formed by a large mountain called Butterhill, and that on the east by another named Brecknock. At a small distance south of Robinson's is a remarkable bluff, whose rocky cliffs ascend almost per- pendicularly from the water's edge to the height of about twelve or fifteen hundred feet. This, from its singular form and appearance, is known by the name of Anthony's Nose. Not far from Robinson's house is Sugar-loaf moun- tain, covered with various kinds of forest trees. 12th.-A little party, consisting of three gentlemen of the hospital and myself, resolved on the attempt to ascend to the summit of Sugar-loaf mountain, which from its rude acclivity is deemed almost inaccessible. It was with great difficulty and fatigue that we effected our purpose, holding by the limbs and bushes, while the decayed wood and loose stones, sliding from under our feet, kept us in con- tinual fear of a fatal fall. Having reached the summit, we contemplated with amazement the sublime scene which opened to our view. Looking down as from a cloud, we beheld the Hudson, resembling a vast canal cut through mountains of stupendous magnitude; a few boats playing on its surface were scarcely visible. But to the pen of the poet, and the pencil of the painter, be consigned the 134 M1 Ll'TARY JOURNAL, 1778. task of describing the wonders of nature there exhibited in the form of huge mountains, rocky cliffs, and venerable forests, in one confused mass. From this summit, too, we . have a most interesting view of the fortress and garrison of West Point. Fort Putnam, on its mostřelevated part, the several redoubts beneath, and the barracks on the lain below, with numerous armed soldiers in active mo- tion, all defended by the most formidable machinery of war, combine to form a picturesque scenery of peculiar interest, which can be heightened only when from the cannon's mouth issue fire and smoke, and the earth trem- bles with its roar and thunder. While musing on the rich scenery, we observed a number of large rocks, which seemed to have but a slender hold at their basis, we con- ceived that it would not be difficult to undermine and precipitate them down the steep precipice. Having a consultation to decide on the most eligible mode of effect- ing our purpose, we resolutely commenced the laborious enterprise; destitute of every kind of utensil, we pro- cured each one a limb of a sapling, with which we bur- rowed away the earth; and soon perceived the happy effects of our industry; the rock began to totter. Among other curiosities, we viewed the path made by the descent of Putnam's rock. Colonel Rufus Putnam ascended this mountain with forty men, who were, for amusement, em- ployed about two days in precipitating from its summit a rock of many tons weight into the river. Such was the force of this ponderous body, that in its passage it cut down trees of a large size, and nothing could impede its course till it fell with a tremendous crash into the river. The rock was of such size, that a part of it remained above water, and Colonel Putnam, standing on its top, holding in his hand a bottle of spirits, gave to it the name of Putnam's Rock. July 26–By Dr. Brown, surgeon-general, just arrived from Philadelphia, we are favored with the intelligence that commissioners have arrived from the British govern- ment with new proposals for the purpose of a reconcil- iation between the two countries. It appears that in consequence of the capture of General Burgoyne and his army, the Parliament had manifested great mortification and alarm, and have been induced to pass some acts, with %XS % º % %. % º ſ - º º º % BRIGADIER GENERAL IIENRY LEE. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 135 a view of reconciliation, more consistent with the just claims of America than those formerly declared. The royal commissioners have presented to our Congress their proposals for a mutual adjustment of existing difficulties, couched in such plausible, and apparently conciliatory language, as to excite serious apprehensions that it may occasion considerable disaffection among the people, if not division in our public councils. Fears are entertained by many, in and out of Congress, that the expedient now adopted by Parliament may be productive of the conse- quences which the authors probably intended, that of relaxation and delay in our military preparations. There is, however, a very important and radical defect in the terms proposed by the commissioners: they are not author- ized to treat with Congress on the principles of independ- ency, but still adhere to the idea of a réunion of the states, as colonies, under the government of Great Britain. Firm in their determination never to relinquish this fundamental principle, the Congress unanimously rejected the proffered conditions, and it is morally certain that no terms short of an explicit acknowledgment of our Independence, will ever be accepted. A very animated address has been published by Congress to their constituents, respecting the terms proposed by the commissioners, in which they ob- serve, that “the haughty prince who spurned us from his feet with contumely and disdain, and the Parliament who proscribed us, now descend td offer terms of accommoda- tion. While in the full career of victory, they pulled off the mask, and avowed despotism. But having lavished in vain the blood and treasure of their subjects, in pursuit of this execrable purpose, they now endeavor to ensnare us with the insidious offers of peace. They would seduce us into a dependence which necessarily and inevitably leads to the most humiliating slavery. And do they believe you will accept these fatal terms because you have suffered the distresses of war? Do they suppose that you will basely lick the dust before the feet of your destroyers? Can there be a man so lost to the feelings that adorn human nature, to the generous pride, the elevation, the dignity of freedom? Is there a man who would not abhor a dependence on those who have deluged his country in the blood of its inhabitants? We cannot suppose this, 10 - 136 •. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. neither can we suppose that they themselves expect to . make many converts. What then is their intention? Is it not to lull you with the fallacious hopes of peace, till they can assemble new armies to prosecute their nefarious designs? If this is not the case, why do they meanly court each little tyrant of Europe to sell them his unhappy slaves? Why do they continue to embitter the minds of the savages against you? Surely, this is not the way to conciliate the affections of America. Be not deceived.” The address then proceeds to encourage the people with the fairest prospect of success in the full establishment of their liberty and independence. The most powerful incen- tives to perseverance and eacertion are held forth as the means of vanquishing the foes of our country. “Above all, bring forward your armies into the field. Trust not to appearances of peace or safety. Be assured that, unless }. persevere, you will be exposed to every species of arbarity; but if you exert the means of defence which God and nature have given you, the time will soon arrive when every man shall sit under his own vine and under his own fig-tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid.” 3d-A great degree of dissatisfaction has prevailed for Some time among the officers of our army. At the com- mencement of the war, a considerable proportion of our officers, it is presumed, engaged in the service from the purest motives of patriotism; some doubtless were actuated by pecuniary views, or influenced by the novelty of the employment, and with the expectation that the contest would be of short continuance. These incentives appear in a great measure to have vanished. The active spirit of patriotism is not to be considered as inexhaustible; when it has made the most liberal personal sacrifice, it is disposed to languish, and to resign its duties to others who hold an equal stake in the public weal. The military commission, which in other armies is eagerly sought for, and prized, as entitling the bearer to the post of honor and profit, is in ours held in little estimation, and in some instances it is scarcely considered as reputable. The paper money in which our army is paid, has greatly depreciated, and an officer can with difficulty realize an adequate sup- port while in camp, and those who have families depend- ent on them, are reduced to the greatest embarrassments. THADDEUs Kosciusko. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 187 Many officers, when commissioned, relinquished lucrative professions or employments, and are devoting the most precious portion of life to the service of their country. When we contemplate the destitute condition which may be his lot at the close of the war, or the wretched circum- stances in which he may be called to leave his family in case he should not survive this period, no one can be surprised that he is dissatisfied in his present situation, and that he claims from the public a more ample remu- neration. These considerations will account for the nu- merous resignations which have taken place, and which has occasioned the commander-in-chief much anxiety and concern. Apprehending that he should be deprived of the services of many meritorious officers, his Excellency General Washington made a feeling representation to Congress relative to the subject. A committee of that honorable body has been appointed to confer with the general, and in concert with him to make and recommend such new arrangements as should appear eligible. His excellency strongly recommended a half-pay establish- ment, which he conceived was indispensably necessary, to induce the officers to continue in the service, and cheer- fully discharge their respective duties; as many have already resigned, and application for it is frequently made by others. Besides adopting some method to make the provision to officers equal to their present exigencies, a due regard should be paid to futurity. “Nothing, in my opinion,” says his excellency, “would serve more power- fully to réanimate their languishing zeal, and interest them thoroughly in the service, than a half-pay establishment.” This conference and representation produced the desired effect. Congress, being convinced of the propriety and necessity of making further provision for the encourage- ment of their army, resolved, unanimously, that all mili- tary officers, commissioned by Congress, who now are, or hereafter may be, in the service of the United States, and shall continue therein during the war, shall, after the conclusion of it, be entitled to receive annually for the term of seven years, if they live so long, one-half of the present pay of such officers. They further resolved, unan- imously, that every non-commissioned military officer or Soldier who has enlisted or shall enlist in the service of 138 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. these states during the war, and shall continue therein to the end thereof, shall be entitled to receive a further re- ward of eighty dollars at the expiration of the war. 4th.-Intelligence has reached us that the royal army, under the command of General Sir Henry Clinton, has evacuated Philadelphia, and while marching through Jer- sey to New York, General Washington attacked them near Monmouth court-house, on the 28th of June, and a warm engagement ensued. This contest was conducted with military ardor and spirit on the side of both armies; but was not on so broad a scale as to prove very decisive in its consequences. The intense heat of the weather, great fatigue, and drinking cold water, proved fatal to about sixty or eighty men of each party. Molly Pitcher, wife of one of the officers, was engaged in bringing water from a spring for the men at the guns, when she saw her husband struck down, and instantly killed;—at the same time she heard the commandant order his piece to be withdrawn as he had no one to fill his place. Maddened at her loss, Molly rushed forward, and with great activity and courage, continued to work the gun until it was withdrawn. This so strongly enlisted the feelings of the soldiers, that they obtained for her an interview with Washington, and her enroll- ment on the list of half-pay officers, for life. She was ever afterward called Capt. Molly. General Washing- ton commanded in person on this memorable day. He was exposed to every danger while encouraging and ani- mating his troops, and his presence and example were of the utmost importance during the day. After the action, at night, he laid down in his cloak under a tree, with the expectation of récommencing the battle in the morning, but the royal army silently retreated during the night without being pursued. One unfortunate circumstance occurred on this occasion, which created considerable embarrassment, and deranged the plan of operations. , Major-General Lee was ordered, by the commander-in-chief, to advance and attack the enemy's rear, so soon as a proper opportunity should offer. Having approached very near, instead of engaging, he suffered his troops to retreat in some confusion. On learn- || - | lº - | | º | MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 139 ing this, his excellency was exceedingly mortified and astonished. Coming up to General Lee, and meeting part of his corps in their flight, he with some warmth inquired the cause of his retreat, and addressed General Lee in language which implied censure. The high-spirited Lee could not brook the slightest appearance of disapprobation, and replied with an air of disrespect. He, however, re- quested of his excellency fresh orders for the conduct of his corps, and these he promptly obeyed, and discovered no want of bravery in the field. But, unable to quell the rankling of a turbulent temper, he addressed, after the battle, two letters to the commander-in-chief, containing improper and disrespectful expressions. As if in defiance of superior authority, he demanded a trial by a court- martial, that he might have an opportunity of vindicating his conduct, in consequence of which his excellency has put him under arrest to await his trial. 5th.-Congress have passed a vote of thanks to General Washington and his army for their brave conduct at the battle of Monmouth. - 8th.-I accompanied Dr. Woodruff to Fishkill village, about fourteen miles. Dined at the hospital with our old friends Drs. Adams and Eustis. They are pleasantly sit- uated in a secure retreat for the accommodation of our sick and wounded soldiers. It is expected the French government will lend us their assistance and cöoperation against our English adversa- ries. It is asserted that a powerful French fleet will soon arrive on our coast. - 16th.-His excellency the commander-in-chief visited West Point, to take a view of the works which are con- structing there. His arrival was announced by the dis- charge of thirteen cannon, the number of the United States. 20th-Having a number of sheep running at large in the Woods belonging to our hospital, and being in want of mutton, I was induced to assist the slaughterers with my gun against these harmless animals. In pursuit of this game, I devoted most of the day, and a single sheep only was the reward of my labor and fatigue. On my return, I was accused of want of skill as a marksman, and Dr. Prescott challenged me to decide our superiority by firing at a mark; the challenge accepted, we placed an 140 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. object at the end of our garden. After the third fire, we were checked by an unpleasant incident. Several horses were grazing in a field directly in our range, and one of them, a valuable animal, received a ball through his body. The wound on examination was found to be fatal, the skill of the surgeon could avail nothing, and, to add to our chagrin, we were informed that the animal was the prop- erty of Brigadier-General Glover, and was by him highly prized. We soon received a billet from the general, and on waiting on him at West Point, to adjust the terms of settlement, he demanded the cost of the horse, which was one hundred and fifty dollars. Justice and honor required that we should promptly comply with his demand. A soldier who had the charge of the horses informed us that one of the balls struck the ground within a yard of his feet; had the poor fellow been the victim, the catastrophe would have been much more melancholy; but the event is sufficiently unfortunate to deter us from again sporting with our guns at random shot. 27th. —Colonel Malcome, from West Point, with his much-admired lady, and several other officers, favored us with their company to dine; we treated our polite guests with all the civilities and all the comforts in our power, and the cheering glass was not removed till evening, when we accompanied them to the river side, and finished two bottles of port on board their barge. 28th.-Agreeably to invitation, the gentlemen of our hospital returned the visit to Colonel Malcome, at West Point, and were entertained in the most genteel manner. The public mind is now in a state of excitement, occa- sioned by the improper proceedings of the royal commis: sioners for restoring peace. They have made a second communication to Congress, but still without any intima- tion of a recognition of the Independence of the United States; but address them on the supposition that the people of America are still the subjects of the crown of Britain. This last communication is drafted with much art and address, calculated to excite jealousies and division among the people. Not content with their public declara- tions, and proposals addressed to Congress, they have actually descended to the dishonorable act of insidious offers to corrupt some distinguished individuals. Governor MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 141 Johnstone, one of the commissioners, with inexcusable effrontery, offered a bribe to Mr. Reed, a member of Con- gress. In an interview with Mrs. Ferguson at Philadel- phia, whose husband is a royalist, he desired she would mention to Mr. Reed that if he would engage his interest to promote the object of their commission, he might have any office in the colonies, in the gift of his Britannic majesty, and ten thousand pounds in hand. Having solicited an interview with Mr. Reed, Mrs. Ferguson made her com- munication. Spurning the idea of being purchased, he replied, “that he was not worth purchasing, but such as he was, the king of Great Britain was not rich enough to do it.” Congress declined all further intercourse with the commissioners, and terminated their attempts at negotia- tion, unless their royal master would first withdraw his fleets and armies, or expressly acknowledge the independ- ence of the United States. In order to demonstrate their most pointed indignation against such daring attempts to corrupt their integrity, they resolved that it was incom- patible with their honor to hold any further intercourse with George Johnstone, Esquire, more especially to nego- tiate with him on affairs in which the cause of liberty and virtue are interested. We are just informed of a new order of fanatics, who have recently introduced themselves into our country, pretending to be a religious sect; but, if reports be true, they are a disgrace both to religion and to human nature. They are called Shaking Quakers, or dancing quakers, though they have no affinity either in principle or char- acter to the established order of Quakers. Their leader is a female by the name of Ann Lee, niece of General Lee, of our army. She is lately from England, and has brought over with her a few followers, and has had the address to seduce several individuals of our country to her party. She is known by the appellation of Mother Ann, and pretends to have received a revelation from heaven. The method which they practice under the idea of religious worship, is so obviously impious, as to exceed the bounds of credibility; but we have the particulars from eye-witnesses, who have been admitted to their mid- night orgies. They spend whole nights in their revels, and exhibit the most unbecoming scenes, violating all 142 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. rules of propriety and decency. Both sexes, nearly di- vested of clothing, fall to dancing in extravagant postures, and frequently whirl themselves round on one leg with inconceivable rapidity, till they fall apparently lifeless on the floor. A spectator asserts that the fantastic contor- tions of body in which their pretended religious exercises consist, bear the semblance of supernatural impulse, and that no imagination can form an adequate idea of the extravagant conduct of these infatuated people—a bur- lesque on all moral and religious principle.” August 3d.-I am now to notice one of the most dread-, ful instances of perfidious savage cruelty that can perhaps be found on the records of history. However incredible the particulars may appear, they are found in various publications, and received as indubitable facts. Nor would I tarnish a page with the diabolical transaction, till the detailed account has been incontrovertibly estab- lished. At a place on the eastern branch of the Susque- hannah river, was a flourishingsettlement called Wyoming. It consisted of eight townships, containing one thousand families; and such was the zeal with which they espoused the cause of America, that they voluntarily raised about one thousand soldiers for the continental army. The climate and soil of this territory are admirably adapted to the production of grain, hemp, fruit and stock of all kinds. The inhabitants of this secluded spot might have lived in the enjoyment of all the happiness which results from harmony and the purest natural affection. But unfortu- nately they suffered themselves to be divided by the turbulent spirit of party, distinguished by the epithet of whig and tory. When this rancorous spirit was permit- ted to disclose itself, animosities arose to such an aston- ishing height, as to sever the tenderest ties of family friendship and the dearest connexions. Many of the active inhabitants, influenced by malice and revenge, abandoned their plantations, forsook their neighbors and friends, and allied themselves with the savages, whom they instigated and assisted in the barbarous work of *The sect now denominated Shaking Quakers, are an orderly and civil people; they have rendered themselves remarkable for industry and ingenuity, and for their particular attention to agriculture and the mechanic arts. - º º º MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 143 slaughter and death among their friends. The inhabitants, on receiving intelligence that an enterprise was preparing against them, and sensible of their perilous situation, threw up intrenchments and redoubts, to defend themselves against the gathering storm. About the 1st of July last, the ferocious enemy, consisting of one thousand six hun- dred tories, Indians and half-blooded Englishmen, ap- proached the settlement, and were perceived lurking about their borders. This motley combination was commanded by a Colonel John Butler, a tory refugee, and others no less inhuman and cruel than their savage allies. In Order to lull the inhabitants into security, the enemy several times sent messages to the settlers that they had no hos- tile designs against them, and the treacherous Butler him- self declared that he should not molest them the present season. The inhabitants, however, had reason to distrust their professions, and those capable of bearing arms were immediately embodied under the command of Colonel Zeb. Butler, cousin to the commander of the Savages. Finding his efforts to rally the retreating Americans unavailing, and hoping to be able to collect a sufficient number to defend the fort until assistance could arrive, he turned his horse's head in the direction of the garrison and hastened forward. As he was speeding along the road, he overtook an Indian warrior in pursuit of one of his men, who, almost exhausted, would in a few moments have yielded, from utter exhaustion, his scalp to the knife of the pursuer. Having either lost his sword, or there being not time to use it, Butler was compelled to pass the Indian without attacking him. The danger was too imminent to allow him to stop for the man, and he was obliged to pass him also. Despair gave momentary strength and renewed activity, however, to the latter, and springing forward, he seized the long tail of the colonel's horse, and held on with the tenacity of death. The Indian still continued to pursue, hoping probably that something would “turn up” to his advantage. Something did turn up, but not as he antici- pated. … As Butler proceeded, he beheld a man, lying under a tree, evidently intoxicated, rubbing his eyes, as if to clear up the mist which enshrouded his faculties. Perceiving 144 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. at a glance the state of the case, Col. Butler, as he passed the spot, leaned forward and shouted to the man to kill the Indian. With a coolness which would have won him laurels in the battle, the inebriate, resting his elbow upon the trunk of the fallen tree, took deliberate aim at the breast of the pursuer, and a moment after he was in the dust— dead. Then, as if he had just discovered the state of affairs, he took to his heels, and pushed forward at his utmost speed after the colonel. - Butler was betrayed by his relative, and the tragical scenes which followed, would not be recited here, were it not that they have been already promulgated from authentic SOUII’CéS. * Human ingenuity seemed tasked to its utmost to devise new methods of cruelty, to be exercised upon poor, defense- less victims, and scenes were enacted inconceivably dread- ful. Barracks, in which women and children were confined, were set on fire and the whole consumed together. One of the prisoners, a Captain Badlock, was committed to torture, by having his body stuck full of splinters of pine knots, and a fire of dry wood made around him, when his two companions, Captains Ranson and Durkee, were thrown into the same fire, and held down with pitch-forks till consumed. One Partial Terry, the son of a man of respectable character, having joined the Indian party, several times sent his father word that he hoped to wash his hands in his heart's blood; the monster with his own hands murdered his father, mother, brothers and sisters, stripped off their scalps, and cut off his father's head // Thomas Terry with his own hands butch- ered his own mother, his father-in-law, his sisters and their wnfant children, and eacterminated the whole family! A few individuals, mostly women and children, made their escape during the carnage of the day, and dispersed themselves, wandering in the woods destitute of provision or covering, shuddering with terror and distress; their sufferings must be extreme, and their fate uncertain. It is only in the infernal regions that we can look for a parallel instance of unnatural wickedness. The cries of widows and orphans call for the avenging hand of Heaven. The name of Colonel John Butler ought to be consigned to eternal in- famy, for the base treachery and cruelty with which he MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 145 betrayed his kinsman, Colonel Zeb. Butler, a respectable American officer, while under the sanction of a flag. 4th.-In company with Mr. Governeur Morris and Dr. Brown, our surgeon-general, I rode to camp near White Plains; waited on Colonel Scammel, adjutant-general, to inquire whether any regiment is destitute of a surgeon, as I am desirous of exchanging my present station for the office of regimental surgeon. This object I might have effected, but Dr. Brown prevailed on me not to dissolve my connexion with the General Hospital at present. From camp I performed a journey to Branford, and from thence to Danbury, in Connecticut. Dined with Drs. Eustis and Adams, at their quarters at Branford, and reached Dan- bury in the evening. On my return, the 5th, dined at a tavern at Crompond, and in the afternoon I missed my road, and my horse tired. I was directed into an obscure path through a thick forest, and arrived at the hospital late in the evening. Riding through a thick wood, my attention was arrested by a novel spectacle: On a branch of a large oak, about thirty feet high, I observed a mon- strous black-snake, suspended by a coil of its tail, his head and about half his length inclining downwards, basking in the sun. It appeared about two yards in length, and the size of a man's arm. Its skin was of a jet black, and its prominent sparkling black eyes were very beautiful. He viewed me as I passed with the fierceness of a tiger; but discovering none of those fascinating charms by which our credulous mother Eve was so wofully beguiled, and disdaining the whole progeny of deceivers, I passed on without viewing him as an object of my civilities. 7th.-An unusual number of patients have been brought into our hospital within a few days. Their diseases are putrid ſever and dysentery; many of the cases appear so malignant, that it is feared they will baffle all the skill of the physician. g 10th.-A friend from Albany informs me that three men and two girls have lately been sentenced to suffer death for murder and robbery. The two girls are sisters, and one of the men is their brother. Another brother was executed last autumn, and their mother is now in pri- Son, awaiting her trial for the same crime. The women had disguised themselves in men's apparel, and united with 146 & MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. the tories and Indians in perpetrating the most inhuman cruelties and savage barbarities among the defenceless and innocent inhabitants. It is time this notorious family should be exterminated from the earth, as an awful exam- ple to those wretches who are still in the practice of simi- lar crimes. One of the British ships in the harbor of New York took fire by lightning, and blew up; the ex- plosion shook the whole city like an earthquake, and excited great consternation among the inhabitants. September 4th.-A large French fleet has arrived on our coast, under the command of Count D'Estaign, and has blocked up the harbor of Newport. An army, chiefly of militia and volunteers, from the New England states, with two brigades of continental troops, under command of Major-General Sullivan, laid siege to the royal army on the island. From this land force, with the céoperation of the French fleet, very sanguine expectations were formed that the enterprise would have been crowned with success. But the English fleet appeared, and Count D'Estaign was induced to pursue them and to offer battle, when unfortunately a violent storm arose, by which his fleet suffered so considerably that the count was obliged to quit the expedition, and proceed to Boston to repair his ships. General Sullivan's army continued several days on the island, besieging the enemy, and finally a smart engagement ensued, in which both our regular troops and the militia, emulous of fame and glory, combatted the enemy during the day. The result of the contest was a repulse of the royal forces; they retired from the field with considerable loss, and employed themselves in forti- fying their camp. In the absence of the French fleet, Sir Henry Clinton sent from New York large réinforce- ments, in consequence of which it was unanimously agreed in a council of war to retire from the island. The retreat was conducted by General Sullivan with great judgment and discretion, without loss of men or baggage, though in the face of an enemy of superior force. This exploit reflects great honor both on the general and the brave troops under his command. In the honors of this expe- dition, and retreat, Major General Greene, and the Marquis de la Fayette participated conspicuously, but were greatly disappointed in the final result. №|-№-=-=（.. ==№№=== ！№== Eſ=========- №， №. ~ === | _----=） MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 147 5th.-Major-General Lee has gone through his trial before a court martial appointed for the purpose. The charges exhibited against him were—1st, Disobedience of orders, in not attacking the enemy on the 28th of June, agreeably to repeated instructions. 2, For misbehavior before the enemy on the same day, in making an unneces- sary, disorderly and shameful retreat. 8d, For disrespect to the commander-in-chief, in two letters, dated June 28th and July 1st. To these several charges the general made a very able and excellent defence, particularizing all the circumstances attending the unhappy affair, and to the ut- most of his ability extenuating and vindicating his conduct. The court, nevertheless, pronounced him guilty, and their sentence was, “that Major-General Lee be suspended from his command in the armies of the United States for the space of one year.” This sentence is like a mortal wound to the lofty, aspiring spirit of General Lee; few men are less calculated to sustain such a rebuff to pride and ambitious views.” 6th.-A duel was fought a few days since between Gen- eral G. and Colonel W. Two shots were exchanged with- out bloodshed, and a reconciliation was effected. The gentlemen, it is said, displayed a firmness and bravery becoming their rank and character, and have established their claim to the title of gentlemen of honor. As their courage has never been called in question, the present rencontre was unnecessary," unless it be to evince that they possess malice enough in their hearts to commit a murderous deed. The example of superior officers will have great influence with those of inferior rank, whether contending with the dogs of war, or in adjusting the minor points of honor. 8th.-Major-General Putnam has arrived in this vicinity, with the division of Virginia and Maryland troops under his command, and they have encamped on the borders of the river. Brigadiers Woodford and Muhlenburg have taken up quarters in apartments in our hospital. This is my first interview with this celebrated hero. In his per- son he is corpulent and clumsy, but carries a bold, un- daunted front. He exhibits little of the refinements of * See Appendix, for General Lee's character and abuse of General Washington. - 148 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. the well-educated gentleman, but much of the character of the veteran soldier. He appears to be advanced to the age of about sixty years, and it is famed of him that he has, in many instances, proved himself as brave as Caesar. . He visited our hospital, and inquired with much Solicitude into the condition of our patients; observing a considerable number of men who were infected with the ground itch, generated by lying on the ground, he inquired why they were not cured. I answered, “Because we have no hog's-lard to make ointment.” “Did you never,” says the general, “cure the itch with tar and brimstone?” “No, sir.” “Then,” replied he, good-hu- moredly, “you are not fit for a doctor.” Dr. Ferguson, secretary to the British commissioners, forwarded to Congress a declaration signed George John- stone, respecting the resolve of Congress relative to his attempt on the fidelity of one of their members, which re- solve he thinks to be calculated by Congress to delude the people of America, and to defeat the design of the com- missioners in effecting an accommodation, which he says he would not prevent, and therefore declines acting any more as a commissioner. Another declaration, signed by the three commissioners, (Carlisle, Clinton, and Eden,) in which they disclaim all knowledge of the conduct of Gov- ernor Johnstone, in tampering with a member of Congress, till they read it in the newspapers. This paper contains ungenerous reflections on France, and intimates their as- tonishment that the Americans should prefer an alliance with France to a submission to the government of England. This, their last manifesto, has been published, and by per- mission of Congress circulated through the United States. It was addressed to the members of Congress, the members of the general assemblies or conventions of the several colonies, plantations, and provinces, and was to be in force forty days from the date. It offers a general or separate peace to the colonies, with the revival of their ancient government, Secured against future infringements, and protected for ever from taxation by Great Britain, if they will relinquish their independence, break their faith with France, Congress having formed a treaty of alliance with that nation, and submit to the British yoke. These, if not the * See Appendix for his character. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 149 positive, are the implied terms on which they offer peace. But if their terms are not complied with, then are we to expect more severe expressions of British vengeance than we have hitherto experienced. Hostilities are, they say, to be conducted in a more rigorous and terrific form, that the United States may be rendered of less importance to the French king, their inveterate enemy, and our new ally. We are, therefore, if we persevere in our obstinacy, threat- ened with the cruel extremes of war, and a desolation of our country. This last manifesto contains a recital of what the commissioners term the blessings they are empowered to confer, and a warning of the continued train of evils to which the colonies are at present blindly and obstinately exposing themselves, &c., &c. The commissioners expli- citly declared that they had neither authority nor inclination to acknowledge the colonies to be independent—and Con- gress having informed them “that they would treat with Great Britain on no other terms,” it put an end to the nogotiation, and the commissioners, it is understood, are preparing to depart from the continent. The British government manifests extreme chagrin and disappointment on account of the prosperous career of the United States, and are very indignant that their conceited omnipotent authority should be so presumptuously called in question by those whom they still affect to consider in the light of dependent colonies. - In their reply to the declarations of the commissioners, our Congress mention the causes which induced the people of America to array themselves in arms, that it was the oppressive and tyrannical measures of the British ministry; and after briefly reciting the cruelties that had hitherto been exercised by their troops and navy, acting against us, they add, “that since their incorrigible dispositions cannot be touched by kindness and compassion, it becomes the duty of Congress, by other means, to vindicate the rights of humanity,” and they conclude by saying, “that if our enemies presume to execute their threats, and per- sist in their present mode of barbarity, we will take such exemplary vengeance as shall deter others from a like conduct.” They appeal to that God who searches the hearts of all men for the rectitude of their intentions, and in his holy presence declare, “that as they are not moved 150 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. by any light or hasty suggestions of anger or revenge, so through every possible change of fortune they shall ad- here to this their determination.” October.—The regiment of cavalry, commanded by Colo- nel Baylor, being posted on our lines near Tappan, their situation was betrayed by some tories, and a party of the enemy surprised them while in a barn, in the night, and massacred a part of them with circumstances of savage cruelty. The commander of the party who disgraced themselves by this foul deed, was the English General Grey. Colonel Baylor's detachment consisted of one hun- dred and four horsemen; the attack was so sudden, that they were entirely defenceless, and the enemy immediately commenced the horrid work of slaughter; their entreaties and cries for mercy were totally disregarded by their sav- age foes. It has been well ascertained that the British Soldiers were ordered by their inhuman officers to bayonet every man they could find, and to give no quarter. Major- General Lord Stirling, having by request ascertained the particulars respecting this execrable transaction, makes the following statement: “On its being intimated to me,” says his lordship, “that Congress were desirous to know the particulars of the massacre of Colonel Baylor's regi- ment, I desired Dr. Griffith, surgeon and chaplain to Gen- eral Woodford's brigade, and who attended Colonel Baylor and the other wounded persons, to collect all the evidence he could of this barbarous affair... I have just now received collections on this subject.” The ‘collection contains the affidavits and depositions of a number of soldiers belonging to that unfortunate regiment, who solemnly declare that after they had surrendered and asked for quarter, it was refused. Thomas Hutchinson, sergeant of the third troop, escaped unhurt; but heard the British soldiers cry out, “Sliver him!” repeatedly. Cullency, of the first troop, who received twelve wounds, says, “that when the enemy entered the barn where his troops lay, he and the men asked for quarter, and were refused; that the British cap- tain, Bull, after inquiring how many of the rebels were dead, on being told the number, ordered all the rest to be knocked on the head, and that his orders were executed on five or six of the wounded.” Benson, of the second troop, received also twelve wounds; he declared he heard （* - *** \, ` J \\ ,\ \ ~ № ^^N\N x' \\ SNN）\ . N} N\， ', x * . ¿zg, º -ÍſX < S`N* sae. MA for GENERAL RICHARD MONTGoMERy, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 151 the men in the barn with him ask for quarter, which was returned with wounds and abusive language; he thought it in vain to ask for quarter himself, as he heard the sol- diers reply to others that begged it, “that their captain had ordered them to stab all, and make no prisoners.” Thomas Talley, of the sixth troop, received six wounds; he declared, “that after the enemy had taken him and partly stripped him, the soldiers inquiring of their captain what should be done with him, he ordered him to be killed, and after that he received six wounds in his breast with their bayonets at different times.” . Southward, of the fifth troop, says, that five men out of thirteen of their regiment, in the barn with him, were killed outright, and the rest, excepting himself, bayoneted; that he heard the British officer order his men to put all to death, and afterwards ask if they had finished all; that they offered quarters to some, who on surrendering themselves, they bayoneted.” The depositions of seven others, attested by Governor Livingston of New Jersey, confirm the above declarations. Mr. Morris, lieutenant and adjutant in Baylor's regiment, received seven wounds; he declared that, on begging his life after he had surrendered, they replied, “Yes, d-n you, we will give you quarters!” and then rushed on and stabbed him with their bayonets, and stripped him of all his clothes. It is a melancholy and awful consideration, that any unnecessary severity should be put in practice to aggravate the common horrors of war. Britain, who boasts of her bravery, her progress in the polite arts, and generosity of temper, has, in her manner of conducting the war in America, most infamously outraged all the laws of humanity, and set an example of Savage brutality, de- testable to every civilized people, and to every friend of human kind. They are destroying the character of their nation in the eyes of all the world. Witness their fatal prison-ships, their murders in cold blood, their wanton burning and devastations, their licentious abuses, which exhibit a picture of barbarity scarcely to be credited among civilized nations. What then must be our situation, should our country ever be reduced to an absolute subjection to such a mean-spirited people? These considerations should awaken every motive that can animate a manly bosom, to despise •ºry danger in repelling from our shores such & 152 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. barbarous invaders, and in humbling such unprincipled foes to our freedom. His excellency the commander-in-chief made a visit to our hospital; his arrival was scarcely announced, before he presented himself at our doors. Dr. Williams and myself had the honor to wait on this great and truly good man through the different wards, and to reply to his inquiries relative to the condition of our patients. He appeared to take a deep interest in the situation of the sick and wounded soldiers, and inquired particularly as to their treatment and comfortable accommodations. Not being apprised of his intended visit in time to make preparation for his reception, we were not entirely free from embar- rassment, but we had the inexpressible satisfaction of re- ceiving his excellency's approbation of our conduct, as respects the duties of our department. The personal ap- pearance of our commander-in-chief, is that of the perfect gentleman and accomplished warrior. He is remarkably tall, full six feet, erect and well proportioned. The strength and proportion of his joints and muscles appear to be commensurate with the préeminent powers of his mind. The serenity of his countenance, and majestic gracefulness of his deportment, impart a strong impression of that dig- nity and grandeur which are his peculiar characteristics, and no one can stand in his presence without feeling the ascendancy of his mind, and associating with his counte- nance the idea of wisdom, philanthropy, magnanimity, and patriotism. There is a fine symmetry in the features of his face, indicative of a benign and dignified spirit. His nose is strait, and his eyes inclined to blue. He wears his hair in a becoming cue, and from his forehead it is turned back and powdered in a manner which adds to the military air of his appearance. He displays a native gravity, but devoid of all appearance of Ostentation. His uniform dress is a blue coat, with two brilliant epaulettes, buff-colored under-clothes, and a three-cornered hat, with a black cockade. He is constantly equipped with an ele- gant small-sword, boots and spurs, in readiness to mount his noble charger. There is not in the present age, per- haps, another man so eminently qualified to discharge the arduous duties of the exalted station he is called to sustain, amidst difficulties which to others would appear insur. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 153. mountable, nor could any man have more at command the veneration and regard of the officers and soldiers of our army, even after defeat and misfortune. This is the illustrious chief whom a kind Providence has decreed as the instrument to conduct our country to peace and to independence. Major-General Schuyler, having for more than a year been suspended from military command, in consequence of his concurrent responsibility respecting the evacuation of Ticonderoga, in July, 1777, has at length undergone his trial by a court-martial, of which Major-General Lin- coln was president, and is acquitted, with the highest honor, of the charge exhibited against him. This excel- lent officer has finally obtained that justice which, from undue prejudice, has so long been denied him. Major-General Arthur St. Clair has also by the same court been acquitted with the highest honor of the charge exhibited against him, of evacuating the post at Ticonder- oga. His masterly defence before the court is admired for the display of superior intellect, Sound principle, pure in- tegrity, and correctness of judgment. General St. Clair, it is presumed, will never receive an adequate compensa- tion for the unmerited contumely which he has experi- enced from Congress and the public. It is the height of injustice to subject a man of established character to suffer in reputation and in sensibility, merely from surmise and suspicion; and the injury is greatly aggravated when the accused is long held up to public odium, and not permit- ted to adduce evidence in his own vindication. General St. Clair has frequently been heard to express a conscious- ness of the uprightness and propriety of his conduct, and to despise the vague censure of an uninformed populace;’ and when Burgoyne was advancing into the country, he said he had the most Sanguine hope that the progress of the enemy would be checked, and that he should have the satisfaction to experience that, though he had lost a post, he had eventually saved the state. This hope he has realized in its fullest extent, by the event that the British com- mander and army, to whom he surrendered a post, has since been compelled to submit as captives to our army. General St. Clair was an officer in the army of General Wolfe, and was in the battle in which that celebrated com- * 154 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. mander was slain on the Plains of Abraham. He was estimated as a young officer of merit, capable of obtaining a high grade of military reputation. Soon after the com- mencement of hostilities, in 1775, he was, without his solicitation, appointed to the office of colonel, and he marched with his regiment into Canada, where he ren- dered very important services. He was subsequently pro- moted to the rank of major-general, and on all occasions supported an honorable distinction, and shared largely in the confidence and friendship of the commander-in-chief. November 3d-Having made a visit to Fishkill, I re- turned in company with Dr. Treat, our physician-general, and found a large number of gentlemen collecting to par- take of an entertainment, by invitation of Brigadier-Gen- eral Muhlenburg, who occupies a room in our hospital. The guests consisted of forty-one respectable officers, and our tables were furnished with fourteen different dishes, arranged in fashionable style. After dinner, Major-Gen- eral Putnam was requested to preside, and he displayed no less urbanity at the head of the table than bravery at the head of his division. A number of toasts were pro- nounced, accompanied with humorous and merry songs, In the evening we were cheered with military music and dancing, which continued till a late hour in the night. General Muhlenburg was a minister of a parish in Vir- ginia, but participating in the spirit of the times, exchanged his clerical profession for that of a soldier. Having in his pulpit inculcated the principles of liberty and the cause of his country, he found no difficulty in enlisting a regi- ment of soldiers, and he was appointed their commander. He entered his pulpit with his sword and cockade, preach- ed his farewell sermon, and the next day marched at the head of his regiment to join the army, and he does honor to the military profession. 10th.-Having for a long time served in the hospital * department, and having no claim to promotion there, I resolved to relinquish that station, and accept the appoint- ment of surgeon to the first Virginia state regiment, com- manded by Colonel George Gibson. Being introduced to the officers of the regiment, I received a polite invitation to take my quarters in the marquee with Colonel Gibson MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. 1öö and his lieutenant-colonel, William Brent. Thomas Mer- iweather is his major. 18th-Rode to the village of Fishkill, breakfasted with Dr. Treat and Colonel Hayes, and waited on Dr. John Cochran, who is now in close attendance on the Marquis de la Fayette, who is dangerously sick with a fever. 23d.—We have now had a long respite from battles and skirmishes, the season for the campaign is about expiring, and no one can boast of having achieved deeds of much fame and glory. As we are stationed at a considerable distance from the enemy at New York, we feel secure from the annoyance of the dogs of war; and military duty not being very urgent, our officers appear disposed to relax in their discipline, and contract a habit approaching to dissipation. They have adopted the practice of giving suppers alternately, with music and dancing through half the night. These are the favorite amusements of the Vir- ginia and Maryland officers, but they do not accord pre- cisely with my own views of time well spent, though I am frequently enticed to a participation in their banquet- ing revels. 24th.-I accepted an invitation to dine with Captain Carter, at West Point. He is a gentleman of independent fortune, and lives in splendid style. His guests were numerous and highly respectable, and the entertainment rich and arranged with taste. 25th.-Dined with General Muhlenburg, in company with several Virginia officers, and, as usual, closed the day with music and dancing. 27th.-Visited my friends at Fishkill, and by the re- quest of Colonel Gibson I waited on the Marquis de la Fayette. The colonel furnished me with a letter of in- troduction and his compliments, with inquiries respecting the marquis's health. I was received by this nobleman in a polite and affable manner. He is just recovering from a fever, and was in his chair of convalescence. He is nearly six feet high, large, but not corpulent, being not more than twenty-one years of age. He is not very ele- gant in his form, his shoulders being broad and high, nor is there a perfect symmetry in his features; his forehead is remarkably high, his nose large and long, eyebrows prominent, and projecting over a fine animated hazel eye. 156 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778. His countenance is interesting and impressive. He con- verses in broken English, and displays the manners and address of an accomplished gentleman. Considering him a French nobleman of distinguished character, and a great favorite of General Washington, I felt myself highly hon- ored by this interview.” December 15th–At a settlement called Cherry Valley, about sixty miles above Albany, Colonel Alden, of Dux- bury, Massachusetts, was stationed with about two hun- dred and fifty continental troops, to protect the inhabitants from the incursions of the frontier enemy. It is now an- nounced that a body consisting of about seven hundred Indians, tories and soldiers assaulted our party, massacred Colonel Alden, several of the inhabitants, men, women and children, and made prisoners of the lieutenant-colonel and many of the inhabitants. The account states that one hundred and eighty of the surviving inhabitants had neither house nor provisions, were almost naked, and destitute of money to provide necessaries. Our division, commanded by General Putnam, marched according to general orders from our encampment near Robinson's house, 28th November; arrived at King's ferry, twelve miles, and encamped; 29th, crossed the North river in batteaux, and pitched our camp on the Jersey shore; 30th, marched twelve miles only, in a severe storm of snow and sleet, encamped near the small town of Kakiat. December 1st and 2d, passed through Paramus and Aquackanock, twenty-six miles. These towns are inhabited chiefly by Dutch people; their churches and dwelling-houses are built mostly of rough stone, one story high. There is a peculiar neatness in the appearance of their dwellings, having an airy piazza Sup- ported by pillars in front, and their kitchens connected at the ends in the form of wings. The land is remarkably level, and the soil fertile; and being generally advan- tageously cultivated, the people appear to enjoy ease and happy competency. The furniture in their houses is of the most ordinary kind, and such as might be supposed to accord with the fashion of the days of Queen Anne. They despise the superfluities of life, and are ambitious to * For the character of the marquis, see Appendix. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1778 157 appear always meat and cleanly, and never to complain of an empty purse. Pursued our route on the 3d, passed through Westfield, and part of Newark, a handsome village situated on a river of that name, which is navigable to New York, dis- tance eight miles. In this village there is a public acad- emy and several handsome churches. This is the garden of New Jersey, it is a most delightful country, uniformly level, and every acre abundantly productive. 4th, marched through Springfield, a small but handsome English town. Encamped near the village of Scotch Plains. Here we received orders by express from head-quarters to halt, in consequence of some movement of the enemy in New York. 9th, ordered to resume our march; passed through Quibbletown and the village of Middle-brook. In this vicinity we are erecting log huts for our winter-quarters. I called at a house with Colonel Gibson and other offi- cers to view a phenomenon in the human form—a child that has grown to an enormous size at the age of seven years; he measures three feet six inches round his breast, and three feet nine inches round his belly, his limbs and joints are proportionably large, and he weighs one hun- dred and thirty pounds. ... I was informed by the boy's mother that she discovered in him an extraordinary growth when two years old, since which he has increased very rapidly. He enjoys good health, and is not deficient in capacity. 30th.-Our officers have not permitted the Christmas days to pass unnoticed, not a day without receiving invita- tions to dine, nor a night without amusement and dancing. I dine to-day with General Muhlenburg. Our soldiers are constantly employed in cutting down trees and building log huts for our winter's accommodation, and we are obliged to live in our uncomfortabie tents till they can be completed. This is appropriated as a day of Thanksgiv- ing throughout the state. Our brigade was paraded in the field to attend divine service. Dr. Belmain, our chaplain, delivered a judicious sermon, well adapted to the Occasion, adverting to the great cause in which we are engaged, and enjoining a grateful reverence to the Al- mighty Ruler of the universe, and a faithful discharge of the duties incumbent on us in our several stations. 158 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. January 1st, 1779.-Colonel Gibson made an entertain- ment, and invited all the officers of his regiment to dine at his quarters in the country a short distance from camp. The table was amply furnished, and the guests did not separate till evening, when we were requested to resort to General Muhlenburg's quarters. Here we were intro- duced to a number of ladies assembled to unite with the gentlemen in the ball-room; a very elegant supper was provided, and not one of the company was permitted to retire till three o'clock in the morning. Thus have the gallant Virginians commenced the new year. February.—Having continued to live under cover of canvas-tents most of the winter, we have suffered extremely from exposure to cold and storms. Our soldiers have been employed six or eight weeks in constructing log huts, which at length are completed, and both officers and sol- diers are now under comfortable covering for the remain- der of the winter. Log houses are constructed with the trunks of trees cut into various lengths, according to the size intended, and are firmly connected by notches cut at their extremities in the manner of dovetailing. The va- cancies between the logs are filled in with plastering con- sisting of mud and clay. The roof is formed of similar pieces of timber, and covered with hewn slabs. The chimney, situated at one end of the house, is made of similar but smaller timber, and both the inner and the outer side are covered with clay plaster, to defend the wood against the fire. The door and windows are formed by sawing away a part of the logs of a proper size, and move on wooden hinges. In this manner have our Sol- diers, without nails, and almost without tools, except the axe and Saw, provided for their officers and for themselves comfortable and convenient quarters, with little or no ex- pense to the public. The huts are arranged in strait lines, forming a regular, uniform, compact village. The officers' huts are situated in front of the line, according to their rank, the kitchens in the rear, and the whole is similar in form to a tent encampment. The ground for a consider- able distance in front of the soldiers' line of huts is cleared of wood, stumps and rubbish, and is every morning swept clean for the purpose of a parade-ground and roll-call for the respective regiments. The officers' huts are in general MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779 159 divided into two apartments, and are occupied by three or four officers, who compose one mess. Those for the soldiers have but one room, and contain ten or twelve men, with their cabins placed one above another against the walls, and filled with straw, and one blanket for each man. I now occupy a hut with our field-officers, Colonel Gibson, Lieutenant-Colonel Brent, and Major Meriweather. 4th.-A duel has lately been fought between a surgeon and an adjutant in General Scott's brigade; the former received a bad wound, and the latter escaped with honor. “Who will hesitate,” says one, “to exchange a few shots with a friend to obtain the appellation of a gentleman of honor? If I kill my antagonist I have the satisfaction of settling a point of honor/ If I receive a ball through my own heart, I die in the glorious cause of honor / ‘You have offended me in a delicate point,’ says an officer to his friend, ‘and I now demand of you the satisfaction of a gentleman: I have settled my affairs, and prepared myself to die, if that shall be my fate.”—“Then,' replied the other, ‘we cannot fight on equal terms, for I have not had time to do either.’” The anniversary of our alliance with France was dele- brated in proper style a few days since near head-quarters, at Pluckemin. A splendid entertainment was given by General Knox and the officers of artillery. General Washington and his lady, with the principal officers of the army and their ladies, and a considerable number of respectable ladies and gentlemen, of the state of New Jer- sey, formed the brilliant assembly. About four o'clock sixteen cannon were discharged, and the company col- lected in a large public building to partake of an elegant dinner. In the evening a very beautiful set of fire-works was exhibited, and the celebration was concluded by a splendid ball, opened by his Excellency General Wash- ington, having for his partner the lady of General Knox. 26th.-A party of the enemy made an attempt yester- day to surprise our troops stationed at Elizabethtown, under the command of General Maxwell, but the vigilance of the general prevented their success. They sent a party to capture Governor Livingston, of New Jersey, but in this attempt they were also frustrated. After burning and plundering a few houses, they returned to Staten Island, 160 ! MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. but were pursued by General Maxwell's brigade, which occasioned the loss of a few men on each side. His excellency the commander-in-chief has long been in the practice of inviting a certain number of officers to dine at his table every day. It is not to be supposed that his excellency can be made acquainted with every officer by name, but the invitations are given through the medium of general orders, in which is mentioned the brigade from which the officer is expected. Yesterday I accompanied Major Cavil to head-quarters, and had the honor of being numbered among the guests at the table of his excellency, with his lady, two young ladies from Virginia, the gen- tlemen who compose his family, and several other officers. It is natural to view with keen attention the counte- nance of an illustrious man, with a secret hope of discover- ing in his features some peculiar traces of excellence, which distinguishes him from and elevates him above his fellow- mortals. These expectations are realized in a peculiar manner in viewing the person of General Washington. His tall and noble stature and just proportions—his fine, cheerful, open countenance—simple and modest deport- ment—are all calculated to interest every beholder in his favor, and to command veneration and respect. He is feared even when silent, and beloved even while we are unconscious of the motive. The table was elegantly fur- mished, and the provisions ample, but not abounding in superfluities. The civilities of the table were performed by Colonel Hamilton and the other gentlemen of the fam- ily, the general and lady being seated at the side of the table. In conversation, his excellency's expressive coun- tenance is peculiarly interesting and pleasing; a placid Smile is frequently observed on his lips, but a loud laugh, it is said, seldom, if ever, escapes him. He is polite and attentive to each individual at table, and retires after the compliments of a few glasses. Mrs. Washington combines in an uncommon degree great dignity of manner with the most pleasing affability, but possesses no striking marks of beauty. I learn from the Virginia officers that Mrs. Washington has ever been honored as a lady of distin- guished goodness, possessing all the virtues which adorn her sex, amiable in her temper and deportment, full of benignity, benevolence and charity, seeking for objects of MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 161 affliction and poverty, that she may extend to the suffer- ers the hand of kindness and relief. These surely are the attributes which reveal a heart replete with those virtues which are so appropriate and estimable in the female character. April 13th-We have passed a winter remarkably mild and moderate; since the 10th of January, we have scarcely had a fall of snow, or a frost, and no severe weather. At the beginning of this month the weather was so mild that vegetation began to appear; the fruit-trees were budded on the 1st, and in full blossom on the 10th. In Virginia the peach-trees were in blossom on the 14th of February, but a small frost since has, it is feared, proved fatal to the fruit. 14th.-I accompanied several gentlemen to the village of Middle-brook, where a number of horses were offered for sale; I purchased a handsome young bay for six hun- dred dollars. This shows the depreciated value of the paper money, which we receive for pay; the horse could not be valued at more than eighty dollars in silver. 16th.--The officers of our regiment provided a genteel entertainment, and invited Generals Woodford, Small- wood, and Muhlenburg, with all the officers of the Virginia. line, as our guests. Our table was furnished with an ample variety of dishes, and the choicest liquors that could be procured. 20th-Five soldiers were conducted to the gallows, ac- cording to their sentence, for the crimes of desertion and robbing the inhabitants. A detachment of troops and a concourse of people formed a circle round the gallows, and the criminals were brought in a cart, sitting on their coffins, and halters about their necks. While in this awful situation, trembling on the verge of eternity, three of them received a pardon from the commander-in-chief, who is always tenderly disposed to spare the lives of his soldiers. They acknowledged the justice of their sentence, and expressed the warmest thankfulness and gratitude for their merciful pardon. The two others were obliged to submit to their fate; one of them was accompanied to the fatal spot by an affectionate and sympathizing brother, which rendered the scene uncommonly distressing, and forced tears of compassion from the eyes of numerous 162 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. spectators. They repeatedly embraced and kissed each other, with all the fervor of brotherly love, and would not be separated till the executioner was obliged to per- form his duty, when, with a flood of tears, and mournful lamentations, they bade each other an eternal adieu-the criminal, trembling under the horrors of an untimely and disgraceful death—and the brother, overwhelmed with sorrow and anguish for one whom he held most dear. May 1st.—Thirteen cannon have just announced the arrival of M. Gerard, the French minister, and a gentleman of distinction from Spain, by the name of Don Juan de Mirrilliars; and preparations are making to afford these foreign gentlemen an opportunity of reviewing our army. 2d.—The whole of our army in this quarter was paraded in martial array in a spacious field, and a stage was erected for the accommodation of the ladies and gentlemen spec- tators. At the signal of thirteen cannon, the great and splendid cavalcade approached in martial pomp and style. A very beautiful troop of light-horse, commanded by Major Lee, a Virginian, marched in front, then followed his excellency the commander-in-chief and his aids-de- camp, next the foreign ministers and their retinue, and the general officers of our army and their aids, closed the procession. Having arrived on the field of parade, the commander-in-chief, with the foreign ministers and general officers, passed in front of the line of the army, from right to left, in review, and received the military honors due to their rank; after which, the gentlemen dismounted and retired to the stage, and took seats with Mrs. Washington, Mrs. Greene, Mrs. Knox, and a number of other ladies, who had arrived in their carriages. The army then per- formed the field manoeuvres and evolutions, with firing of cannon and musketry. The business of the day was closed by the troops deploying, and marching in front of the stage, and paying the marching salute to their excel- lencies. The whole performance was conducted with such marked regularity and precision, as to reflect great honor on the character of our army, and afford the commander- in-chief and the spectators the highest degree of satisfac- tion. On this occasion we cannot but pride ourselves on the conspicuous figure exhibited by our commander-in- chief. While mounted on his noble bay charger, his MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 163 stature appears remarkable; and being a good horseman, he displays a lofty carriage, and benign dignity of de- meanor, and I hope not to incur the charge of undue partiality, when I say, his appearance was incomparably more majestic and dignified than either of his illustrious visitors. W. 14th-Our brigade was paraded for the purpose of being reviewed by General Washington and a number of Indian chiefs. His excellency, with his usual dignity, followed by his mulatto servant Bill, riding a beautiful gray steed, passed in front of the line, and received the salute. He was accompanied by a singular group of Savages, whose appearance was beyond description ludicrous. Their horses were of the meanest kind, some of them destitute of saddles, and old lines were used for bridles. Their personal decorations were equally farcical, having their faces painted of various colors, jewels suspended from their ears and nose, their heads without covering, except tufts of hair on the crown, and some of them wore dirty blankets over their shoulders waving in the wind. In short, they exhibited a novel and truly disgusting specta- cle. But his excellency deems it good policy to pay some attention to this tribe of the wilderness, and to convince them of the strength and discipline of our army, that they may be encouraged, if disposed to be friendly, or deterred from aggression, if they should become hostile to our country. 28th.—The Baron Steuben reviewed and inspected our brigade. The troops were paraded in a single line with shouldered arms, every officer in his particular station. The baron first reviewed the line in this position, passing in front with a scrutinizing eye; after which, he took into his hand the muskets and accoutrements of every soldier, examining them with particular accuracy and precision, applauding or condemning, according to the condition in which he found them. He required that the musket and bayonet should exhibit the brightest polish; not a spot of rust or defect in any part could elude his vigilance. He inquired also into the conduct of the officers towards their men, censuring every fault and applauding every merito- rious action. Next he required of me, as surgeon, a list of the sick, with a particular statement of their accommo- 164 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. dations and mode of treatment, and even visited some of the sick in their cabins. The baron has sustained the office of aid-de-camp to his Majesty the King of Prussia, and is now inspector-general with the rank of major-gen- eral in our army. He appears to be about fifty years of age, and is venerable and dignified in his deportment, rich and elegant in dress, having a splendid medal of gold and diamonds, designating the order of fidelity, suspended at his breast. He is held in universal respect, and consid- ered as a valuable acquisition to our country. He is dis- tinguished for his profound knowledge of tactics, his ability to reform and discipline an army—for his affection- ate attachment to a good and faithful soldier, and his utter aversion to every appearance of insubordination and neg- lect of duty. The continental army has improved with great rapidity under his inspection and review. 30th.-Dined with Major Storer, at his quarters in the country. Spent a few hours at General St. Clair's quar- ters, with Dr. McKenzie and Major Dunn, and called on Colonel Scammel at the adjutant-general's office. June 10th.-Smith's Clove is a fine level plain, of rich land, situated at the foot of the high mountains on the west side of Hudson river. It is about fourteen miles in the rear of the garrison at West Point, and surrounded on all sides by the highlands. The few families who reside here find a profitable employment in cultivating the fertile soil. Our brigade marched from quarters at Middle-brook on the 2d instant, and arrived at Morristown, where we received orders to leave all our heavy baggage, and pro- ceed with all possible expedition, as the enemy was ad- vancing towards West Point. Marched rapidly through Troy, Pompton and Ringwood, and on the 7th instant, encamped in the Clove. By a number of deserters from the enemy, information has been received that the greater part of the British army is advancing, and is now near Ring's ferry, only thirteen miles below West Point; and that part of their fleet is proceeding up the river: their object is supposed to be the garrison at West Point. For the security of this very important post, General Wash- ington has arranged his army as follows: Three divisions, consisting of the Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania troops, commanded by Major-Generals Lord Stirling, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 165 |Baron de Kalb, and Major-General St. Clair, form the right wing, and is commanded by General Putnam as the senior major-general, and posted at Smith's Clove. All the New England troops, including the militia, compose the left wing, and are so distributed at West Point and its vicinity, on the east side of the river, as to guard all the passes leading to the garrison. Our army thus posted is supposed to be adequate to the defence of the garrison against all the force which the enemy can bring in array against it; and such is the confidence among our officers, that many of them express a strong desire that the royal troops would afford an opportunity to try our strength and courage. Should this be the event, the struggle must indeed be violent, and the slaughter immense. The Brit- ish commander, however, not deeming it prudent to haz- ard a battle, after a few days retired to New York. 12th-Two officers of our regiment have just had occasion to adjust an affair of honor. Captain E. had given offence to Captain H., and a challenge ensued. Captain E. was well apprised that if the ball from the pistol of his antagonist should pass through his heart, it would produce immediate death: of course it was most prudent to decline the hazardous combat. But the con- sequence is, he subjected himself to a contest of a less hom- orable nature. His antagonist inflicted the chastisement of the horse-whip. This he supported with wonderful fortitude and magnanimity; apprehending, probably, that . powder and ball might prove more disastrous than the chastisement which he had received. But his brother- officers treated him with contempt, and threatened to hoot him out of camp. There is a kind of mechanical courage excited by the necessity of the occasion, which may push a coward to venture on an act of heroism. This fact was now exemplified; for Captain E., reduced to the alterna- tive of retrieving his character in a spirited manner, or of quitting the army in disgrace, came to the desperate resolution of deciding his fate by facing his bold antago- nist in single combat. The usual arrangements being made, my services as surgeon were held in requisition. The parties took their stand at ten paces, and each dis- charged his pistol. But behold, a harmless eacplosion / no blood shed, not even a hair of their heads injured. But 16.5 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. the combatants conducted like gentlemen of honor: of course, harmony and mutual friendship were restored. Captain E. has the best cause of triumph, for he has res- cued his character from the stigma of poltroon, to an hon- orable standing among the gentlemen officers. 14th.-I rode with Major Meriweather to West Point; took our route through the woods, over abrupt and rocky mountains, almost impassable for our horses. Spent an hour at General Parsons's head-quarters, then crossed the North river to Fishkill. The next day we récrossed at Fishkill-landing, and rode to New Windsor, thence we visited my friend Colonel Malcolm at his seat fourteen miles in the country. This gentleman, having resigned his office in the army, is beautifully situated on a farm west of the Hudson, retired from the bustle of war, and devoted to domestic affairs and rural enjoyments. We spent the night with this agreeable family, and Mrs. Mal- colm received in the evening the visits of a number of ladies and gentlemen. We returned to our camp the next morning, and found the brigade under marching orders. 16th.-We marched from Smith's Clove through a thick wilderness, and over the prodigious highland mountains. My curiosity was excited by asvast number of huge rocks, marked with fissures and cavities, occasioned by some stupendous power beyond our comprehension. These, with various brooks, winding in every direction, among rude clefts and precipices, afford a singular and romantic landscape. Our path was narrow and rugged, and proba- bly will not again be traversed but by savages and wild beasts. We arrived here in the evening, without our baggage, and were obliged to seek lodgings among Our friends. The next day dined with Dr. I. Thomas, and accompanied him to General Patterson's quarters, where we spent the evening, and I was introduced to Major Has- kill, aid-de-camp to General Patterson. He is a native of Rochester, and Dr. Thomas of Plymouth, Massachusetts. 20th.-I have lately been favored with a letter from my friend Dr. D. Townsend, who is a surgeon in the military hospital at Providence, state of Rhode Island. He invites me to accept of the office of surgeon to the Massachusetts regiment, commanded by Colonel Henry Jackson, which is now stationed at that place. My principal inducement *~ ºs . . - tº #4 ... , rºº % º % º M AJOR GENERAL will AM Mot LTRIE, MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 167 to exchange my present station for the proposed new ap- pointment is, that Colonel Jackson and all his officers are from my native state, and there is a prospect of receiving some compensation in clothing and other articles to which I could have no claim while serving in the Virginia line. It is proper, and on many accounts convenient, that offiz cers should serve in the line of their own state; and though I have enjoyed the most friendly intercourse, and numerous kind favors from the Virginians, yet I cannot but prefer the manners and habits of the New Englanders. 21st.—The officers of our regiment invited a select num- ber of officers of the Pennsylvania line to dine on sturgeon, a large fish which Major Meriweather caught in the North river. This fish is a favorite with the Dutch, at Albany, and is on that account by some called Albany beef; but in my view it is worse than horse beef, and it was merely an auxiliary to our table. 24th.-I have just had the satisfaction, with a number of gentlemen, of viewing a remarkably large fat ox, which has been presented by some gentlemen in Connecticut to his Excellency General Washington. He is six feet seven inches high, and weighs on the hoof three thousand five hundred pounds, the largest animal I ever beheld. Having resolved to resign my commission in Colonel Gibson's regiment, I shall in a few days commence my journey to Providence, and join the regiment commanded by Colonel H. Jackson. Colonel Gibson has favored me with a complimentary certificate of my services. It is with sincere regret that Ibid adieu to those associates, for whom I have a strong attachment. July 1st.—Engaged to spend this evening with General Patterson and Dr. Crowell, and to breakfast with the Rev. Mr. Avery and Mr. Hitchcock, and shall immediately set off for Providence, in company with Dr. Skinner. I left West Point, in company with Dr. Skinner, on the 2d instant, and on the 3d arrived at Crompond, where my favorite young horse was seized with the horse distemper, and I was put to the cruel necessity of disposing of him for not one-half his real value. Pursued our journey through Litchfield and Farmington, in Connecticut, and the next day reached Hartford, a well-built, handsome town on Connecticut river, and the capital of that state. 12 168 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. Having crossed over to East Hartford, we found the whole country in a state of alarm in consequence of the enemy's having landed at New Haven, and there committing dep- redations among the inhabitants. A spirit of revenge seemed to pervade the whole country, and the militia were marching from all quarters to encounter and arrest the progress of the invading foe. We passed through Windham, and arrived at this place on the 8th instant. Here I had an interview with my old friends Drs. Brown and Townsend, surgeons of the hospital. I was by Dr. Townsend introduced to Colonel Jackson and his officers, and I commenced my duty by visiting the sick soldiers of the regiment. The field-officers of this regiment are Col- onel Henry Jackson, Lieutenant-Colonel David Cobb, and Major Lêmuel Trescott. . It is now learned that the party of the enemy that landed at New Haven was commanded by Governor Tryon, and consisted of three thousand men. They met with a powerful resistance from the militia, which occasioned skirmishing, and a considerable loss on each side. After plundering the inhabitants of Fairfield and Norwalk, they maliciously destroyed both these flour- ishing towns, with their houses of religious worship, by a general conflagration. 13th.-Dined with Colonel Jackson, and in the afternoon rode with Major Trescott to Pawtuxet, a very pleasant ride of about five miles. 21st.—By express from General Washington to General Gates, we are informed of a glorious victory, which a detachment of our army, commanded by the intrepid General Wayne, obtained over the enemy at Stony Point, situated on the banks of the North river. In consequence of this intelligence, thirteen cannon have been fired at the several posts in this department. Extract from General Gates' orders: “PROVIDENCE, July 21st, 1779. “The general congratulates the army on the glorious success of Brigadier-General Wayne, and the gallant troops under his command, in taking by assault the enemy's fortified post at Stony Point, and, with the point of the bayonet alone, forcing the garrison to surrender at discretion, not one man escaping. This signal and brilliant victory was gained with the loss of but fifteen men killed, and the general aná eighty-three wounded, while, on the part of the enemy, five hundred soldiers and twenty officers were killed, wounded and taken prisoners with all their cannon, arms, military-stores and provisions.” } John PAUL JONES. MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 169 30th.-Dined at head-quarters with a number of gentle- men; was introduced to General Gates by Dr. Brown. General Gates is the commander-in-chief in this depart- ment; his capture of General Burgoyne at Saratoga, in 1777, has given him eclat and popularity as a brave and skillful warrior. He displays the complaisant manners of a gentleman; in conversation he is affable and interest- ing, but appears better versed in military tactics than in subjects appertaining to general science. He adopted the profession of arms in his early days, and his prowess and valor, as well as his zeal and partiality for our country, are incontestably established. Congress have recently passed the following resolve in favor of an American heroine: “That Margaret Corbin, who was wounded and disabled at the attack of Fort Washington, while she heroically filled the post of her husband, who was killed by her side, serving a piece of artillery, do receive during her natural life, or the con- tinuance of the said disability, the one-half of the monthly pay drawn by a Soldier in the service of these states; and that she now receive, out of the public stores, one com- plete suit of clothes, or the value thereof in money.” Mr. T., an ensign in our ºiment, has for some time discovered symptoms of mental děrangement. He is fre- quently strolling abroad, and amºusing people with his wit and humor, or arresting attention by his solemn appeals to the Deity. Yesterday he intruded himself at General Gates' head-quarters, and after some amusing conversation, he put himself in the attitude of devotion, and prayed that God would pardon General Gates for endeavoring to super- Sede that god-like man Washington. The general appeared to be much disturbed, and directed Mr. Pierce, his aid-de- camp, to take him away. Whether this address provoked in the general a consciousness of the fact is uncertain, but the subject is of such a delicate nature that no man in his sober senses would have broached it to him. - August.—The British a few weeks since detached a force from Halifax, and established a post on Penobscot river, in the Province of Maine. Their force is supposed to consist of about one thousand men, under command of Brigadier-General Maclean, with several armed vessels, which occupy the river. This invasion of our territory 170 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. has excited the greatest indignation, and all classes of people are burning with an ardent desire of revenge. The General Court of Massachusetts have planned an expedi- tion, for the purpose of driving the invading foe from our shores. Such was their zeal and confidence of success, that it is said the General Court neither consulted any experienced military character, nor desired the assistance of any continental troops on this important enterprise— thus taking on themselves the undivided responsibility, and reserving for their own heads all the laurels to be derived from the anticipated conquest. They drafted one thousand five hundred militia, and appointed General Lovell, who acquired some reputation in Rhode Island, under General Sullivan, the last year, to command the expedition. They obtained of Congress the loan of the United States frigate Warren, of thirty-two guns, and with an unprecedented spirit of enterprise and industry, no less than nineteen continental, state, and private ships, and more than twenty transports, were specially equipped, and prepared to cóoperate with the land forces destined for this service. With a laudable spirit of patriotism, and animated by the flattering prospect of success, thirty masters of merchant vessels in Newburyport honorably volunteered their services as common seamen. Captain Saltonstall was appointed commodore of the fleet, and took his station on board the Warren frigate. This combined force sailed about the 20th of July on their destined ser- vice, but having some reason to apprehend a failure of their enterprise, the General Court have applied to General Gates for permission for Colonel Jackson's regiment to ré- inforce General Lovell, to which he has assented, and we are accordingly under marching orders. Colonel Henry Jackson, who commands our regiment, is a native of Boston; he is very respectable as a com- mander, is gentlemanly in his manners, strongly attached to military affairs, and takes a peculiar pride in the dis- cipline and martial appearance of his regiment. Many of his officers are from Boston and its vicinity; they appear in handsome style, and are ambitious to display their taste for military life and their zeal to contend with the enemies of their country. Colonel Jackson, with his regiment, acquired reputation by their gallantry in the battle on MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 171 Rhode Island, under General Sullivan. Our regiment consists of about four hundred men, in complete uniform, well disciplined, and not inferior to any in the continental army. We commenced a forced march from Providence on the 10th, and completed the forty miles in twenty-four hours. A severe rain all night did not much impede our march, but the troops were broken down with fatigue. We reached Boston-neck at sun-rising, and near the en- trance of the neck is a tavern having for its sign a repre- sentation of a globe, with a man in the act of struggling to get through it; his head and shoulders were out, his arms extended, and the rest of his body inclosed in the globe. On a label from his mouth was written, “Oh how shall I get through this world?” This was read by the soldiers, and one of them exclaimed, “List, d-n you, list, and you will soon get through this world! Our regi- ment will all be through it in an hour or two, if we don't halt by the way.” We are treated by the gentlemen of this town with great attention and respect. They have generously presented to Colonel Jackson and the officers of his regiment a hogs- head of Jamaica spirits and a cask of wine. For the soldiers they have collected a liberal sum of money, which is distributed among them. A public dinner is to be pro- vided at the Bunch of Grapes tavern for the officers, before our departure. The transports are in preparation to re- ceive our troops on board. On the 14th, our regiment marched through the town to the Long wharf, and embarked on board the transports, receiving as we passed through King-street the cheers of the inhabitants. After the regiment had embarked, the officers, according to previous arrangement, returned to the Bunch of Grapes tavern, where a liberal and elegant entertainment had been provided, and where we were politely received by a number of respectable gentlemen of the town. Having dimed and enjoyed a number of songs over the cheering glass, wishing success to the Penobscot expedition, we repaired on board our respective transports, awaiting a fair wind for our voyage. Our transports are the Rising Empire, a brig carrying eight guns, two sloops, and one schooner. Our convoy is the ship Renown, of fourteen guns, and a brig of sixteen 172 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. guns. About four o'clock on the 15th instant, the Re- nown, our convoy, fired her signal-guns for Sailing, on which our little fleet weighed anchor, and after giving three cheers, which were returned by a concourse of people on the wharves, and by a French ship in the har- bor, we sailed after our convoy, but dropped anchor near Castle William, by reason of contrary winds. 17th.-In the evening we obeyed the signal-guns, and were beating against contrary wind off Cape Anne till the 19th, when we fell in with a small boat off the Isle of Shoals, which had been despatched with the unwelcome intelligence that our fleet at Penobscot had been attacked by the British, and was totally defeated and destroyed, and that our land forces, under General Lovell, were also entirely defeated and dispersed. Orders were received for our fleet to put into Portsmouth harbor for safety, as sev- eral British ships were supposed to be in pursuit of us. 21st.—Our regiment disembarked and encamped at Kit- tery; being Sunday, I accompanied several of our officers to the Reverend Mr. Hemmenway's church; he is a sensible and animating preacher, displaying considerable eloquence and much orthodoacy. In his fervent prayers, he was not forgetful of the calamities of war, and the righteous cause in which we are engaged. Here we have a confirmation of the unfortunate failure of the Penobscot expedition, which is a source not only of universal regret, but of infinite chagrin and mortification among all who had been concerned in the plan. August.—Having received orders to march to Fal- mouth, (now Portland,) left Kittery on the 23d instant, and on the 27th entered this town in martial order, and were received with marks of the greatest joy and satisfac- tion, as the inhabitants were under serious apprehensions of a visit from the British. We behold here only the relics of a town, which a few years since was very respect- able and flourishing. . It was the capital of the province of Maine, and enjoyed the happy prospect of becoming One of the most important seaports in New England. But in October, 1775, the inhabitants opposed the lading of a British vessel with ship timber, which so enraged Admiral Graves, that he sent Captain Mowat with several ships of War, demanding of the inhabitants to deliver up all their MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. 173 artillery and small arms. On refusal to comply with this demand, the enemy opened a severe cannonade, which soon set fire to the town, and no less than four hundred and eight houses, stores and other buildings, were con- sumed to ashes. A large number of seamen and mariners were landed, but the people having collected in consider- able force, compelled the enemy to retreat to their boats, with the loss of several men. By several gentlemen just returned from Penobscot, I have obtained the following particulars respecting the failure of the expedition. On the arrival of General Lovell, instead of one thousand five hundred militia, nine hundred only could be collected; it was resolved, how- ever, in a council of war, to make an attempt to achieve the object of the expedition; accordingly, on the 28th of July, the militia, with about three hundred marines, were disembarked, and soon effected a landing under a height which rose almost perpendicularly from the banks of the river, on the summit of which the enemy's advanced guard was posted under cover of a wood. Our militia were op- posed by about an equal number of the enemy, whom they bravely encountered and drove within their works; but we suffered a loss of several officers of merit, and about one hundred of the militia and marines were killed and wounded. It now became a subject of consideration whether it was expedient to storm the enemy's principal works, but in a council it was decided that our force was inadequate to the object. It was at this juncture supposed that by a vigorous côoperation of our navy, a complete victory might have been obtained, and the most urgent and pressing entreaties were made to Commodore Salton- stall for the purpose, but he declined, and continued in a state of pusillanimous inactivity, thereby proclaiming him- Self totally incompetent to the important trust with which, most unfortunately, he had been invested. On the 14th instant, Sir George Collier, with a sixty- four-gun ship and five frigates, arrived from New York. General Lovell, on receiving this intelligence, ordered all his troops, with the artillery and baggage, to be embarked on board the transports, which, with our whole fleet, moved up the Penobscot river, pursued by the British. On the near approach of the enemy, our vessels were 174 MILITARY JOURNAL, 1779. abandoned; two of them fell into the hands of the enemy, the remainder were burned and blown up. General Lov- ell and General Peleg Wadsworth, the second in command, both of whom have the reputation of brave men, now dis- pensed with all command of the troops, as did Saltonstall of the seamen. The soldiers separated from their officers, and every individual was seeking his own safety, wander- ing in the wilderness, suffering fatigue, hunger, and vex- ation, till after much difficulty they reached the settlements on the Kennebec; a few of their number indeed actually perished in the wilderness. Thus disgracefully has ended the famous Penobscot expedition, which, had a competent force been provided, might have terminated to the glory of Massachusetts. Those concerned in the plan or its execution, a few individuals excepted, were publicly exe- crated. The expense attending the expedition is immense. The fleet was invaluable, and its loss is altogether irrepar- able. It was extremely fortunate for our regiment that we were detained two or three days on our passage by contrary winds; had there been no impediment to our voyage, we must inevitably have fallen into the hands of the enemy. September 3d-Two armed vessels, accompanied by two others, being perceived approaching this harbor, excited a great degree of consternation among the inhabitants, but it was soon ascertained to be our two continental frigates, the Boston and the Dean, returning from a cruise with two prizes of very considerable value, and having on board two hundred soldiers for the British army, and stores and goods to a large amount. The inhabitants of this town have shown us numerous marks of respect and generous hospitality. A respectable committee of the town have invited our officers to a tavern to partake of a treat of punch and wine, in company with a number of respectable inhabitants, and we experience many other polite civilities, indicating a disposition to contribute to the comfort and happiness of those who are serving the great cause of our common country. Orders are now received from General Gates for our regiment to return immediately to Boston. Commenced our march from Falmouth on the 7th in- stant; passed through Scarborough, Kennebunk and York, -\，\ . . . . .·\\ \\\ \，\！ -\\\\) ►A \\\% %