INEAUOGY COULECTION
M. i-4
ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
3 1833 01125 8362
NEW- YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
PUBLICATION FUND.
V.
COMMITTEE ON PUBLICATIONS,
AUGUSTUS SCHELL,
EVERT A. DUYCKINCK,
GEORGE H. MOORE.
COLLECTIONS
NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY
FOR THE YEAR
1872.
PUBLICATION FUND SERIES.
NEW YORK:
PRINTED FOR THE SOCIETY
MDCCCLXXIII.
Officers of the Society, 1873.
- — 1128419
PRESIDENT,
FREDERIC DE PEYSTER, LL.D.
FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT,
WILLIAM CULLEN BRYANT, LL.D.
SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT,
JAMES W. BEEKMAN.
FOREIGN CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,
WILLIAM J. HOPPIN.
DOMESTIC CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,
EVERT A. DUYCKINCK.
RECORDING SECRETARY,
ANDREW WARNER.
TREASURER,
BENJAMIN H. FIELD.
LIBRARIAN,
GEORGE HENRY MOORE, LL.D.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
FIRST CLASS — FOR ONE YEAR, ENDING 1 8 74.
EDWARD F. DE LANCEY, WILLIAM T. BLODGETT,
JOHN ADRIANCE.
SECOND CLASS — FOR TWO YEARS, ENDING 1875.
J. TAYLOR JOHNSTON, ERASTUS C. BENEDICT, LL.D.,
ROBERT LENOX KENNEDY.
THIRD CLASS — FOR THREE YEARS, ENDING 1876.
AUGUSTUS SCHELL, EVERT A. DUYCKINCK,
JAMES WILLIAM BEEKMAN.
FOURTH CLASS FOR FOUR YEARS, ENDING 1877.
SAMUEL OSGOOD, D.D., WILLIAM R. MARTIN,
CHARLES P. KIRKLAND, LL.D.
CHARLES P. KIRKLAND, LL.D., Chairman.
GEORGE H. MOORE, LL.D., Secretary.
[The President, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, and Librarian,
are members, ex officio, of the Executive Committee.]
COMMITTEE ON THE FINE ARTS.
JONATHAN STURGES, WILLIAM J. HOPPIN,
A. B. DURAND, JOHN A. WEEKS,
ANDREW WARNER, EDWARD SATTERLEE.
JONATHAN STURGES, Chairman.
ANDREW WARNER, Secretary.
[The President, Librarian, and Chairman of the Executive Com-
mittee, are members, ex officio, of the Committee on the Fine Arts.]
THE LEE PAPERS
VOL. II.
1776-1778.
THE LEE PAPERS.
To Patrick Henry.
Williamsburg, May 7tli, 1776.
Dear Sir,
If I had not tlie highest opinion of your Candour
and liberal way of thinking, I should not venture to ad-
dress myself to you, and if I was not equally perswaded
of the great weight and influence, which the transcend-
ent abilities you possess, must naturally confer, I should
not give myself the troul)le of writing, nor you the
trouble of reading this long letter. Since our conversa-
tion yesterday, my thoughts have been solely employed,
on the great question, whether independence ought, or
ought not to be immediately declared ? Having weigh'd
the arguments on both sides, I am clearly of opinion,
that we must (as we value the liberties of America, or
even her existence) without a moments delay declare
for Independence. If my reasons appear weak you will
excuse 'em, for the disinterestedness of the Author ; as
I may venture to afiirm that no man on this Continent
will sacrifice more than myself by the separation — But
if I have the good fortune to offer any arguments which
have escaped your acute understanding and they should
make the desired impression I shall think I have render'd
the greatest service to the Community. The objection
you made yesterday (if I understood you right) to an
immediate declaration, was by many degrees the most
specious (indeed it was the only tolerable one) that I
have yet heard — you say (and with great justice) that
we ought previously to have felt the pulse of France and
Vol. II.— 1
2 THE LEE PAPERS-
Spain — I more tliaii believe, I am almost confident tliat
it has l)een done — at least I can ascertain upon recollec-
tion that some of the Committee of Secrecy have assured
me, that the sentiments of both these Courts or their
Ao-ents had been sounded, and were found to be as
favorable as could be wished. But admitting that we
are utter strangers to their sentiments of the sul:)ject,
and that we run some risk of this Declaration's being
coldly received by these powers, such is our situation,
that the risque nmst be ventur'd. On one side there
are the most probable chances of our success, founded
on the certain advantages which must manifest them-
selves to French understandings by a treaty of Alliance
^vith America. The strength and weakness, the jDoverty
& opulence of every state are estimated in the scale of
comparison with her immediate Rival; the superior
commerce and marine force of England, were evidently
established on the monopoly of her American trade —
The inferiority of France, in these two capital points,
had its source, consequently from the same origin ; any
deduction of this monopoly, must Idling down her Rival
in j)roportion to the deduction, as the total annihiLation
of this Commerce, must reduce her to an inferiority, or
perhaps total subjection. The French are & always
have l)een sensiljle of these great truths. Your idea
that they may be diverted from a line of policy which
ensures 'em such immense and permanent advantages,
by an offer of partition from Great Britain, appears to
me, if you will excuse the term, an absolute Chimera.
They must 1 )e wretclied politicians indeed, if they wou'd
prefer tlie uncertain acquisition, and the precarious ex-
pensive possession of one or two provinces to the greater
])art of the Commerce of the whole besides were not
the advantages from the latter so manifestly greater
than those that would accrue from the imagin'd parti-
tion Scheme. It is notorious, that acquisition of Terri-
tory or even Colonial possessions which retpiire either
men or money to retain, are entirely repugnant to the
spirit and principles of the present French Court ; it is
THE LEE PAPERS. 6
SO repugnant indeed, that it is most certain, tliey have
hitely entertain'd thoughts of abandoning their West
India Ishmds, le commerce et le oeconoitiie are tlie cry
(h^wn from the king to the lowest Minister, from these
considerations, I am myself convinced, that they will
immediately and essentially assist us, if Independence
is declared. But allowino' that there can Ije no cer-
tainty, but mere bare ^chances m our favor, I do insist
upon it that these chances render it your duty to adopt
the measure, as by procrastination our ruin is inevit-
ble ; should it now be determined to wait the result
of a previous formal negociation with France a whole
year must pass over our heads before we can l}e ac-
quainted with the result. In the meantime we are to
struggle through a Campaign without arms, ammunition,
or any one necessaiy of war — -disgrace and defeat will
infallibly ensue; the soldiers and officers will become
so dispirited that they will al^andon their Colours and
probably never be perswaded to make another effort.
But there is another consideration still more cogent. I
can assure you, Sir, that the spirit of the people (except
a very few in these low^er parts of Virginia whose little
blood has been suck'd out by musketoes) cry out for
this Declaration, the military in particular, men and
officers are outrageous on the subject — and a man of
your excellent discernment need not be told, how dan-
gerous it would be in present circumstances to dally
with the spirit, or disappoint the expectations of the
bulk of the People — may not despair, anarchy, and
finally submission l)e the l)itter fruits ? I am perswaded
firmly that they will, and in this perswasion I most de-
voutly pray, that you may not merely recommend, but
positively lay injunctions on your servants in Congress
to embrace a measure necessary to Salvation. God
Almighty bless you. Sir, and make your Councils what-
ever they may be, as beneficial to your Country as your
capacity to serve it is undoul;)ted.
Yours most entirely
Chakle^ Lee.
THE LEE PAPERS.
From Major Josiah Parker.
Dear General,
I arrived at tliis place on Friday Evening after
taking care tliat all the Houses, Plank, Vessels &c of
the Sheddens, Goodrich's, Jamiesons and Sprowles,
were totally demolished, every day I kept annoying the
Enemy at their T»reast work, where they were as busily
engaged as possible in fortifying themselves ; indeed
they are now as secure as it is possible for to be, the
Otter is near it on the East side as she can lay, the
Dunmore on the N.W. and all their Tenders around it,
they have now six pieces mounted which they always
kept playing u])on us when near it, without any damage
exce])t one man who receiv'd a Grape shott in his botly
which I had cut out and he in a fair way of doing Avell ;
I found it im])ractica1)le to do anything there as the
Enemy wouVl not venture out, I thought after we Avere
gone perhaps they might ; but here I am baulk'd, for
since their train of intelligence is cut off, they expect
the woods are lined with men and they keep close in
their dens, as I have had parties out every clay which
cannot discover a soul stirring. All their Merchant
Shi{)S are removed below the Mills, which I think indi-
cates fear of something, I hope the Philadelphia Fleet
If they come, from their Force, and being so Avell
manned, 1 think them certain of victory, as not one of
those ships at Norfolk are half compleat of men except
the Otter, added to tliis the number of impress'd Sea-
men \vli() would of course turn of our side provided they
saw the glimmering of Victory ; in order that you may
inform the Congress, if you think proper I will give, a
state of the Naval force in Norfolk llarl)our tk Hamp-
ton Koad ; ])rovided the Roebuck is on shore on Dela-
ware which I am informed she is, from a Capt. Johnson,
a ])risoner on parole from the Fleet and a AVoman
wliich our party })icked up yesterday from the Fleet.
If their story is true there only remains the Liverpoole
THE LEE PAPERS. 5
of 28 9 <fe 6 pounders in Hampton road, tlie Otter of
20 six & four pounders, the W™ of six 4 pounders, tlie
Dunniore of 14 from 4 to 9 pounders, the Fineastle
SL)op of 10, 4 pounders, & twenty Tenders from two to
six small guns, with about Eighty sail of Merchantmen,
supposed to be worth 1,500,000 £ currency, indeed
their value to us cannot be ascertained, the immensity
of warlike stores, salt, &>'^ which are articles so hard to
come at, I think deserves the most vigorous push. I
am told that Dunmore is so much alarmed, that with-
out speedy assistance he intends to join Cornwallis w^ho
is arrived at South Carolina and convey all those
valuable effects to the main and gi-and srpiach'on of tliis
Continent. I have sent you enclosed as good a sketch
of Dunmore's lines, the Harbours branches &"" as I am
capable of drawing m}'self, which tlio' incorrect may
serve to give you a faint Idea of a place, which many
are unacquainted with. [In the margin is the follow-
ing.] tW^ I proposed sending you a plan of their
Fortification, but as you have seen it and I have not now
time to do it as Capt. Grier waits shall defer it 'till
another op2:)ortunity. The Engineer was with me the
other day and had every view he could wish of their
Fortifications, he thinks them strong tfe no possibility of
keeping them, if taken without the ships couVl 1)e got
off, if that was the case before they would go, they
cou'd carry off their military utensils on a prodigious
raft which they have got which will bear at least 300
men, on which they could easily bear off their cannon
or anything else in a few minutes, as it is not above
300 yards from their lines, and may be brought within
fifty, the Engineer thinks it might l^e taken by forming
a rolling battery, without loss, but the ground itself is
of no use. It is true we might destroy their bake
houses, which to them are very valualjle. I agree with
him that it may be accomplished in that manner, and
am willing and ready to execute it provided you think
proper, as I ever shall be to obey all your commands.
As old Groodrich is a j)risoner I must beg leave to give
f) THE LEE PAPEES.
YOU some information wliicli I collected with respect to
iiini — After liis son "W" Goodricli had ari'ived with the
Country's powder from S* Enstatia, and the old man
hunted about and threatened as he was by Lord Dun-
more, in order to make peace with him, and keep us in
darkness, he went to him, confessed his fault, opened the
])lan, and Ijegg'd forgiveness which was granted hj his
Lordship, who gave him a permit to go to the West
Indies ; he all this while was passing betwixt Dunmoi-e
and us, we thought he was keeping himself out of the
Enemy's way, while he was divulging all the secrets of
the Cabinet which he could get at, he after sonie time
went to Carolina to go as he inform VI the Committee of
Safety to settle the matter and procure the ballance
(^f the Powder, however as he was going out of Ocra-
cock, he was taken by Lieut. Jones of the King Fishers
Tender who pay'd no respect to Lord Dunmore's pass
but brought him round to Norfolk ; when Dunmore
understood it he opened the Budget to Montague and
they agreed to give him his jjarole, to go in quest of
more news, a better pijnp they not have got, for his
diligence, at last Convention, made Dunmore esteem
him as his first favourite, the Part he has taken since is
so glaring, it's needless for me to mention it — this in-
formation I received from Ca])t" Eastwood, who was the
Capt. who brought in the powder under Wm. Good-
rich, and was taken off Ocracock by Lieut, Jones with
old Goodrich, lie tells me he expected instant death
^vhen taken, Goodrich discovered his uneasiness, begg'd
him to he compos'd that all was safe by his pass from
Loi'd Dunmoi-e. Eastwood informs me that Goodrich
was used ill l)y lieut. Jones, from his character as from
his ])ass he couM not bear the double dealing of such a
ti-aitor, I am informed Col° Peachy has resigned, if so,
I do not kn()\v^ in what manner our officers rise in rank,
Avhether by Ilegiment, by the line, or Avill of Congress,
should they be promoted according to Seniority I am
satisfied, if by the Eegiment, I know in what manner,
but if by merit or caprice of Congress, I nuist beg that
THE LEE PAPERS. 7
yon will remember tliat no field officer has attended the
Regiment but myself since embodyed ; I confess myself
as high in rank as I could ^vish and higher than T am
capable of executing so well as I cou'd ^vish ; but at the
same time I feel that pride, which every officers breast
ought to bear.
I am D'' General
Your mo. obdt. & very hble Servt.
J. Parker.
To EdMUjND PEJSrDLETO]^".
AVilliamsburgh, May y^ 8* 1776.
Sir,
As the enclosed Coj^y of the result of a Council of
Officers this day assembled will not only inform the
convention of the measures taken for the security of
the Province in my absence, but also comprizes a peti-
tion with respect to the serious consequences which
may attend the leaving the counties of Princess Ann
and Norfolk county in their present situation I take
the Liberty of offering it to the consideration of the
house, I have received their commands relating to Mr
Wormley and have sent orders to Colonel Dangerfield
to put 'em in execution.
I am Sir with the greatest resj)ect
Your most obed* humble
Charles Lee.
• To the Hon^^i^ Edin"^ Pendleton
President of the Convention
Proceedings of a Council.
Williamsburgh, May 8, 1776.
As General Clinton has undoubtedly landed, and
some transports of the enemy are arrived in North
8 THE LEE PAPERS.
Carolina, General Lee tliinks it his duty immediately
to repair to that Province, to take measures for defeat-
ing their schemes ; but before his departure he esteems
it his duty to digest some plan for the safety and se-
curity of Virginia. To this end he thinks it necessary
to call a Council of all the General and Field Officers
at Williamsburgh.
In consequence of these Summonses a Council of
the following officers was formed.
Major General Lee
Brig, Gen. Lewis Brig. Gen. Howe
Coloner Buckner Colonel Christian
L* Col. McClanachan Lieut Col BuUit.
General Lee proposes the following questions :
What posts not occupied should be occupied?
What posts now occupied may be abandoned ?
1'* Does not the Great Bridge seem to be a post of
importance ?
The Council unanimously agreed that it is a post
of the greatest imjiortance, and that it should be main-
tained by at least four hundred men.
It being agreed that the Great Bridge should be
garrisoned the Council are consequently of opinion
that Suifolk must like^vise be maintained, and that the
diiierent defiles between Suffolk and the Great Bridge
(which will hereafter be pointed out to the Engineers)
}>e fortified.
The Council consider Suffolk to be of such import
ance they unanimously agree that a l^attalion at least
should be kept to defend that post and its de])endencies.
2ndly. Does it appear that Kemp's Landing with-
out great risk to the body there stationed, can be sup-
])()rted? Is the impoi-tance of this j)ost so great as to
c()unterl)alance the risk i^ But if it is thought neces-
sary to al)andon Kemp's Landing, should not the Con-
vention l)e petitioned to put in execution the former
resolve of the Committee of Safety (now rescinded) of
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 9
obliging all tlie slaves of a military age, as well as of
the wliite inliabitaDts wlio are not manifest active
partisans of lil)erty, to evacuate the counties of Norfolk
and Princess Anne, lying between the Great Bridge,
ocean, and Curi-ituck Sound ; as likewise those residing
in that tract l^etween the Eastern and Southern Branches,
and those of the lower j)arts of Nansemond and the
Western bi-anch, who have taken the oath to Lord
Dunmore.
The Court are of opinion (with only one dissentient)
that Kemp's Landing cannot be suppoi'ted without the
greatest risk; that when it is evacuated the whole stock
would consequently fall into the hands of the enemy ;
and therefore the male slaves and all the inhabitants
of a military age who are not manifestly active parti-
sans of the publick liberty, will be actively employed
for her destruction ; that both inclination and neces-
sity will oblige them. In consequence of this opinion
tliey beg leave humbly to petition the Convention to
put in execution the resolve of the Committee of Safety
(now rescinded) on this subject.
As the getting possession of the capital would give
an air of dignity and decided superiority to the enemy
which in a country abounding with slaves, is a point of
the highest importance, ought not a considerable force
be stationed at Williamsburgh and its dependencies, in
which are included York, Jamestown, Burrel's Ferry
and Hampton ?
It is unanimously agreed as strong a force as possi-
ble ought to be stationed in the capital and its depen-
dencies.
As, from a consideration of the present weakness
of the army in this Province it is impossible to station
a force adequate to this purpose, and at the same time
to aim at defending the vast extent of country open to
the insults of the enemy, can a battalion be s|)ared for
the Northern Neck ?
The Council are of opinion that only t^vo companies
can be spared to be stationed on the Northern Neck,
10 THE LEE PAPERS.
Ijiit tliat they should be reinforced by some companies
of Minute-men.
Charles Lee, President.
From General John Armstrong.
Charleston, S. C. 8*"^ Ma}-, 1776.
Sir,
Your surprise probably may l)e such as mine was,
wlien on tlie third Inst. I arri^'ed here, and found that
in Soutli Carolina there is not a single soldier on the
Continental Establishment, nor have the Commissions
of Congress l)een accepted by any of its Officers.
The Military dej^artment which by virtue of the
Kesolutions of the Provincial Congress had been as-
signed to the Council of Safety — uj^on the dissolution
of that Body, and forming a new Constitution for the
Colony, is assigned by an Ordinance of the Legislature
to his Excellency the President from Avhom the Offi-
cers derive their Commissions as well those of the Pro-
vincial Regim*^ as of the Militia.
The President assures me that this separate or Pro-
vincial footing of theirs with the reasons inducing them
thereto, are at full length laid befoi'e the Continental
Congress and everything submitted to the decision of
that Body, and says he expects an early answer, desir-
ing as I believe the officers generally do, that I wou'd
wait until it come. I have now wrote to Congress de-
sii'iug their further Orders Sl'' and mentioned my wait-
ing the answer unless I should receive your particular
Orders to any other Post, which I now begg or at least
to be favoui'ed with yoin- advice. ShouVl the Enemy
land in N° Carolina I intend repairing innnediately
tliere where I may expect to see you in person, but
shou'd the attack l)egin here, I am more at a loss what
to do, at least until Continental Troo])s come forward.
The reasons given by this Government for adhering
THE LEE PAPERS. 11
to their own Military System, are first that tlie Articles
or reg'uhitious for discipline, drawn up by Congress,
are defecttive, too mild for the pervei'se Soldiery of this
meridian, to whom 39 lashes wou'd prove but a light
breakfast. The drnmming out an Ofiicer gives great
disgust — difference in the time enlisted for l)y them
which was longer than that directed by Congress —
Danger in discharging their troops which they consid-
ered as a ]U'e-requisite to tlieir becoming Continental,
<fe°. These are the principal all of which I presume
might have been obviated without the least risque to
the Service, and they now on the common footing, en-
titled botli to rank & pay, their government making up
the Surplus, w""^ most of the Ofticers now wish for, and
the Governm* have apply'd some time ago to Congress
for Continental Rank <fc pay.
From Georgia I have only heai'd that the Battalion
there has arisen to al)Out four hundred Men, which,
join'd by their Militia, may make a1)0ut one thousand.
I take it foi* granted you are informed of the late ac-
cession to the Fleet at Cape Fear, tfe the reasons to be-
lieve that North Carolina is the first mark in y"" district,
which is proba])le — Yet may these appearances vanish
tt; this Colony be the first object, as the Troops at S*
Augustine said to be two thousand may instigate the
Indian Tril^es by the aid of their Deputy Superintend-
ent (which some say is in agitation) — join to these
Malcontents, and peradventure the domesticks.
I find this Colony have voted four thousand Troops,
but about tw^o thousand are yet raised, these stationed
at various Posts, and ofiicers out a recruiting — Of the
Militia, two hundred & fifty doing duty in Town per-
formed ])y a monthly rotation.
The propriety of opening the Ports at present has
been doubted and altercated in the Legislative Councils
here — yielded to on the w^hole. The greater part of
this Province and I hear also of Georgia are for inde-
pendence — Georgia has also form'd a new Constitution
— The Battalion Continental.
12 , THE LEE PAPERS.
I'm called by principles of gratitude and common
justice to inform you that tlie President, Council, and
Officers of tlie Army liave treated me ^vitli friendship
and every mark of civilit_y — have asked kindly for you
<fe much wish your arrival here with one or two thou-
sand Troops.
I am Sir, with great respect
Your most Oljedt. huml)''' Serv*
John Armsteong.
General Lee. ^
From General Washington^.
New York, May [9th], 177G.
My dear Lee,
Your favour of the 5th ult. from Williamslnirg, tlie
first I have received from you since you left this city,
came to my hands by the last post. I thank jo\i for
your kind congratulations on our possession of Boston.
I thank you for }'our good wishes in our future opera-
tions, and hope that every diabolical attempt to de})rive
mankind of their inherent rights and privileges, whether
made in the East, West, North, or South, will be at-
tended with disappointment and disgrace, and that the
authors in the end will be brcmght to such punishment,
as an injured people have a light to inflict.
General Howe's retreat fi'om Boston ^vas precipi-
tate, beyond any thing I could have conceived. The
destruction of the stores at Dunbar's camp after Brad-
dock's defeat was but a faint image of what was seen
at Boston; artillery carts cut to pieces in one place;
gun carriages in another; shells broke here; shot Imried
there, and every thing carrying with it the face of dis-
order and confusion, as nlso of distress.
Lnmediately U})on their endjarkation, I detached a
])rigade of five I'egiments to this city, and upon their
sailing, removed with the whole army hither, except
four regiments at Boston, and one at Beverley, &c., for
THE LEE PAPERS. 13
the protection of those phices, the stores and barracks
there, and for erecting works for defending the harbour
of the first. Immediately upon my arriv^al here I de-
tached four regiments hj order of Congress to Canada,
(to wit, Poors, Patterson's, Greaton's and Bond's) under
the command of Brigadier Thompson, and since that,
by the same authority, and in consequence of some
unfavourable accounts from that quarter, General Sul-
livan and six other regiments, namely, Starke's, Reed's,
Wain's, Irvine's, Wind's and Dayton's have moved off
for that department ; tlie four last regiments are of
Pennsylvania and New-Jersey. The first brigade ar-
rived at Albany the twenty -fourth ultimo, and were
moving on, when accounts came from thence the twen-
ty-seventh. The other brigade must all be at Albany
before this, as some of the regiments sailed ten days
ago, and the last four, and the winds very favourable.
This has left us very weak at this place, whilst I have
my fears that the reinforcement will scarce get to
Canada in time, for want of teams to transport the
troops, <tc. to Fort George, and vessels to convey them
on afterwards.
We have doue a great deal of work at this place.
In a fortnight more, I think the city will be in a very
i-espectable posture of defence. Governor's Island has
a large and strong work erected, and a regiment en-
camped there. The point below, called Red Hook, has
a small, but exceeding strong barbet battery ; and seve-
ral new works are constructed, and many of them
almost executed at other places.
General Ward, upon the evacuation of Boston, and
finding that there was a probability of his removing
from the smoke of his own chimney, applied to me, and
wrote to Congress for leave to resign. A few daj's
afterwards, some of the oflicers, as he says, getting y?i'
easy at the prospect of liis leaving them, he apj^lied
for his letter of resignation, which had been commit-
ted to my care ; but, behold ! it had been carefully for-
warded to Congress, and as I have since learnt, judged
14 THE LEE PAPEES.
SO reasonable, {loant of liealtli being the plea,) tliat it
was instantly complied with. Brigadier Fry, previous
to this, also conceiving that there was nothing enter-
taining or profital)le to an old man, to h^ marching and
countei'-marching, desired, immediately on the evacua-
tion of Boston, (which happened on the 17th of March,)
that he might resign his commission on the 11th of
April: the choice of the day became a matter of great
speculation, and remained profoundly mysterious till
he exhiljited his acconnt, when there appeared neither
more nor less in it, than the completion of three calen-
dar months ; the pay of which he received without any
kind of compunction, although he had never done one
tour of duty, or, I believe, had ever been out of his house
from the time he entered till he quitted Cambi'idge.
So much for two Generals : I have next to inform
you that the Pay-master-general, Colonel Warren, not
finding it convenient to attend the army, from the vari-
ous employments and avocations in which he was en-
gaged, also resigned his commission, and is succeeded
by your old aid. Palfrey.
When T was speaking of the distressed situation of
the king's troops, and the tories, at their evacuation of
Boston, I might have gone on, and added, that their
misfortunes did not end here. It seems upon their
arrival at Halifax, many of the former were obliged to
encamp, although the ground was covered deep with
snow; and the iatter, to pay six dollars a-week for sorry
upper-rooms, and stow in them, men, ^vonlen, and chil-
dren, as thick comparatively, as the hair upon their
heads. This induced many of these gentry to return,
and throw themselves uj^on the mercy and clemency of
their countrymen, who were for sending them immedi-
ately back, as tlie properest and severest punishment
they could inflict ; but death being preferred to this,
tliey now wait in confinement, any other that may be
thought due to such parricides.
All the ships of war have left this place, and gone
down to the Hook, except the Asia, which lays five
THE LEE PAPERS. 15
miles below tlie Nai'rows, and ahont twelve or four-
teen from hence. I could have added more, but my
paper will not admit of it. With compliment, there-
iore, to the gentlemen of my acquaintance with you,
and with the most fervent wishes for your health and
success,
I remain, Youi' most affectionate,
G. Washington.
Major General Lee.
To Edmund Pendleton.
Williamsburg May 9th, 1776.
Sir,
As I am obliged by the arrival of the Enemy to
rej^air to North Carolina, and am not less prompted by
my zeal and affection for this Province, than obliged by
my duty to take every precaution for its safety Ijefore
my departure ; on this Principle, 1 beg leave to lay
before the Convention, the follo^ving measures which I
conceive to be necessary.
1^* To devise some means for establishing a Corps
of Cavalry, without which, an army is so extremely
defective in every part of the Avorld, and in none more
than in this, for reasons which it might be tedious to
enumerate.
2ndiy. Without delay to order some able Pilots of
every River to examine accurately the narrowest part
of the channel of each river, what is the nature of the
Shoals "svhich form these Channels? whether they are
solid, hrm, sand, gravel, or rock? What is the distance
of the nearest part of the Channel from either shore ?
What is the nature of the shore, whether it is high or
low? for I am sanguine enough to hope when these
circumstances are ascertain'd, the navigation of most of
the Rivers may be shut up to the Enemy, by means of
batteries either floatino: or fixed.
yrdiy ^g ^ijese purposes cannot be effected without
16 THE LEE PAPEES.
a large body of Carpenters, Smiths, <fe Artificers, of
every sort, to establish some Companies of 'em suljject
to the military laws, as withont a coercive j^ower, it is
difficult in this part of the world to prevail upon 'em to
work.
^thiy ^g J understand there are prodigious stocks of
Sheep and Cattle on the Islands near the Eastern shore,
and as my authority does not extend to whatever con-
cerns property, that you will order inuuediately all this
stock to be transported to the Continent, and if this
is impracticable to kill them, as otherwise they must
indisputably fall into the hands of the Enemy.
j^thiy ^g ^|jg Eastern Counties are from their great
abundance of all the necessaries of Life, so tempting
ol)jects to the incursions of the Enemy, & as 1 under-
stand that there will be no difficulty in procuring good
men, I would humbly propose to the Convention, to
augment Col. Flemings Regiment to the same strength
of numl)ers with the other Battalions. I must now Sir,
beg leave to mention to the Gentlemen of the Con-
vention a very important matter of consideration, no
less than the preservation of the lives of your soldiers.
The Continental allowance to Surgeons tfe Surgeons
Mates of the Regiments is so miserably small, and at the
same time the common country practice of Surgeons is
so very lucrative in this Province, that it is not possible
to find men (pialified for the station who will accept :
and as I cannot venture to propose to the Continental
Congress the increase of the pay of the Surgeons of the
whole army, merely because this increase is necessary
ill my division, I nuist submit it to the judgment of the
Convention whether such an addition, as to bring up
the pay of these Gentlemen to the original Provincial
Ordinance will not l)e money well and necessarily
expended.
I am Sir, with the greatest Respect
Yours etc,
Charles Lee.
THE LEE PAPERS. 17
To THE President of Congress.
Williamsburg, May y" 10*'^ 1776.
Sir,
Inclosed is a Packet I liave just received from North
Carolina, as likewise a Resolve of the Convention of
Virginia in consequence of this intelligence. I had
before detached a Battalion of Riflemen to Halifax for
which place I intend to set out myself the day after
tomorrow — there is a noble spirit in this Province per-
vading all orders of men, if the same becomes univer-
sal we shall be saved. I am fortunate^ for my own
liap2^iness, & I think for the Avell being of the commu-
nity on the best of Terms with the Senatorial part as
well as the People at large — I shall endeavour to pre-
serve their confidence and good opinion, I am extremely
distressed for Engineers, and the two that I have tell
me that they ^vdll be under the necessity of resigning,
as they cannot sulisist on their present military pittance.
I hope the Congress will think proper to increase their
salary and their number — May I without presumption
urge to the Congress the absolute necessity of straining
every nerve to possess themselves of Niagara at least, if
not Detroit ?
I am Sir, with the greatest respect,
Your most ob* hum : ser*,
Charles Lee
CopT/ of tlie Resolve referred to in the foregoing.
In Convention, May 10, 1776.
Resolved, that 1150 men consisting of minute men
and militia, be immediately rais'd in the followhig
Counties, ct Proj^ortions, that is to say: Albemarle 100,
Amherst 50, Amelia 100, Brunswick 100, Buckingham
50, Cumberland 50, Dinwiddle 50, Charlotte 50, Halifax
100, Hanover 100, Louisa 50, Lunenburg 100, Maclen-
Vol. II.— 2
18 THE LEE PAPERS.
Inirg 100, Prince Edward 50, Sussex 50, Pittsylvania
150, and sent to the assistance of North Carolina.
To Genekal Washington.
Williamsburgh, May 10, 1776.
My dear General :
The UDOst compendious method to give you an idea
of the state of your Province is to enclose you the re-
sult of a council of officers, every article of which is ap-
proved by your Convention. We have just received an
express from North Carolina informing us of the arri-
val of eight large transports in Cape Fear Eiver, on the
whole containing as it is supposed about two thousand
men. I had l)efore on a suspicion of their arrival de-
tached a l)attalion of riflemen and shall set out myself
the day after to morrow. The Convention has ordered
1200 militia or Minute-men to that Province. My com-
mand (as you may easily perceive) is extremely per-
plexing from the consideration of the vast extent of vul-
nerable parts of this country intersected by such a va-
riety of navigable waters and the expedition with which
the enemy (furnished with canvass wings) can fly from
one spot to another. Had we arms for the minute
men and half a dozen good field Engineers, we might
laugh at their efforts ; Itut in this article (like the rest
of the Continent) we are miserably defficient. Engin-
eers, we have but two, and they threaten to resign, as it
is impossible they should sul)sist on a more wretched
pittance than common carpenters or bricklayers, can
earn. I have written to Ccnigress entreating them to
augment the pay : a word from you would, I make no
doubt, effect it.
I wish, my dear General, you would send me Cap-
tain Smith, on condition the Congress make it worth his
while, otherwise I have not conscience to propose it. I
am well i)leased with your ofiicers in general, and the
THE LEE PAPERS. 19
men are good, some Irish rascals excepted. I liave
formed two companies of grenadiers to each regiment ;
and with spears of thirteen feet long, their rifles (for
they are all riflemen) slnng over their shoulders, their
appearance is formidable, and the men are conciliated
to tlie weapon. I am likewise furnishing myself with
four-ounced rifled amusettes, which will carry an infer-
nal distance ; the two-ounced hit a half sheet of paper
at five hundred yards distance. So much for military.
A noble spirit possesses the Convention. They are
almost unanimous for independence, but differ in their
sentiments aliout the mode; two days will decide it.
I have the pleasure to inform you that I am extremely
well in the opinion of the Senatorial pai't, as well as of
the people at large. God send me the grace to preserve
it. But their neighbors of Maryland (I mean their
Council of Safety) make a most damnable clamor (as I
am informed) on the subject of a letter I wrote to the
Chairman of the Committee of Baltimore, to seize the
person and papers of JVI''- Eden, upon the discovery
which was communicated to me of his treacherous cor-
respondence with the Secretary of State ; it Avas not
only a measure justifiable in the eyes of God and men,,
but absolutely necessary. The Committee of Safety
here are indeed as deep in the scrape as m3^self. The
Congress must, and will, I dare say, support and vindi-
cate the measure. Caj)tain Green and his j^arty are
upon their march, as you ordered. I was a damned
blockhead for brino-ing' them so far, as their accounts
will be intricate ; but I hope not so intricate as not to
be unriddled.
I send you an account of the money I advanced to
the different oflicers — to Captains Smith, Lunt, and
Green. I have taken the liberty to appoint a Sergeant
Denmark of the Rifle battalion to do duty as an Ensign.
He is a man of Avorth, and I beg that you will confirm
his commission. Another Sergeant of the same battal-
ion I have promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant
in the artillery of this Province. He is a German, his
20 THE LEE PAPERS.-
name Holmer, and very deserving. If little Eustace
cannot ]je provided for with you, I could wisli, if tliere
is a cheap method of doing it, you would send him to
me, as I have it in my power to place him and quite
doat u])on him. My love to M'' Washingtou, Gates,
and her bad half, to Moylan, but Palfrey is a scoundrel
for not writing. Adieu, my dear General
Yours, most Sincerely
C. Lee
To General Washington.
To RicHAED Heney Lee.
Williamsburgh, May 10, 1776.
My Deae Feiend,
Your l^rother and I think, from the language of
your letters, that the pulse of the Congress is low, and
that you yourself, with all your vigour, are by collision,
somewhat more contracted in yo\u' hopes than we
wished to have found. If you do not declare imme-
diately for positive independence, ^ve are all I'uined.
There is a poorness of spirit and languor in the late pro-
ceedinf^s of Concjress that I confess frightens me so
much that at times I regret having embarked my all, my
fortune, life, and reputation, iu their bottom. I some-
times wish I had settled in some country of slaves,
^vhere the most lenient master governs. However, let
the fate of my property be what it ^vill, I ho])e I shall
presei've my re])utatioii, and resign my l)reath with a
tolerable degree of grace. God Idess you. I cannot
Avrite more at present. " Ah, Cassius, I am sick of
many griefs."
Yours, most entirely,
Chaeles Lee
Honourable Ilichard Henry Lee.
THE LEE PAPERS. 21
To EdMUXD PeXDLETOjS";
Williamsburg, 10*^ May, 1776.
Sir,
We remain, after consideration, of opinion, tliat the
Inhabitants of the Counties of Norfolk & Princess
Anne from tlieir dangerous & exposed situation & no-
torious disaffection to the common cause of America,
ought immediately to be removed ; that such of them
as are nearest the Enemy, should first be attended to
and without the least delay be conipell'd to withdraw
with their property to an interior part of this, or some
other Colony ; and that even those who being near our
Guards may not venture, or being distant from the En-
emy can with less convenience supply them, should be
obliged directly to drive oif their stocks and carry all
their slaves fit to bear arms to a place of Safety. The
Inha])itants who may be permitted to remain longest at
tlieir hal>itations, are those who reside on that side of
the Great Bridge next to Carolina along y^ Road to the
Northwest Landing and down the Neck of Land to
Carratuck sound, and those between the Bridge of Suf-
folk who are not immediately in the power of the En-
emy (which by reference to the enclos'd I'ougli sketch
of .the country will more fully appear). Above all, we
consider the Inhabitants of that tract of Country, be-
tween the Eastern & Southern Branches as most dan-
gerous to the Community both from their Situation and
Principles, & that they ought first to be remov'd.
We are Sir, with great Respect
Your most ob* humble Servants
Charles Lee,
Robert Howe.
The Hon® Edmund Pendleton,
President of the Convention.
22 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Ma.jok Hendeicks.
Williamsburg, May 11, 1776.
SlE,
I join witli you entirely that a flag of truce ought
to be esteemed sacred, and much approve your good
sense and spirit in remonstrating against their irregular
and insolent proceeding if it is repeated. I wou'd have
3^ou consider the respect due to the flag annihilated by
the improper mode of conducting it. I am likewise of
your opinion that tliese people who come ashore on
their pai'ole are extremely dangerous. I have put a
stop to it at Kemp's Landing and desire you will do
the same at Hampton, when our powder arrives you
shall have some of it, the Artillery Officer will be
down with you in a few days, the eighteen pounders
which are good must be sent up here, as I think you
can have no use for 'em at Hampton. When you write
again address yourself to Brigf Lewis as I shall set out
for Halifax to-morrow. You are to put in execution
the sentence on a Deserter from Capt° FitzGerald's
Comp^ — it is a just & good sentence.
I am Sir, with the greatest respect.
Your most ol)^ Serv*
Chaeles Lee.
Major Hendrick
Com^ at Hampton.
To Ediniund Pendleton.
Williamsburg May 11*!^ 1776.
Sir,
Upon consulting with General Howe, I find it will
be most conducible to the Service to order your militia
to Halifax, where they shall receive further Orders
from me. The difference of the Continental Establish-
THE LEE PAPEES. 23
ment and tliat of tlie Province, will occasion, I am
afraid, miicli confusion — for instance, the pay of the
Artillery here is two shillings per diem — that of the
Artillery in the Army to the Eastward no more than
other soldiers — if we should attempt to reduce it, this
Company so essentially necessary for the service, will
consequently he dissolved, and to propose the augmen-
tation of it to the Congress wou'd appear perhaps un-
reasonable, as it wouVl put them under the necessity of
raising the pay of this Corps universally. I therefore.
Sir, must beg leave to lay my perplexity on this head
before the Convention. Mr. Agnew who was lately
tryed by the Committee, and is allowed to be a most
irreclaimable Enemy ^vas seen the day before the Ene-
my made their last predatory expedition to Hog Island
in consultation with Mr. HT)lt a suspected Tory on the
very scene of their de2:)redations — sliou'd a man so dan-
gerous be suffered at large ? a Ml" Wright in Glocester
may as I informed do, & has done much mischief.
I am Sir, with the greatest Respect,
Your most ob* humble Servant,
Charles Lee
To the Hon. Edmund Pendleton,
President of the Convention.
To CoL. William Woodford.
Williamsburg, May ll''^ 1776.
Dear Colo]S"el,
I pitty you most sincerely for your damn'd employ-
ment, but so far from flattering you with being re-
lieved of the burthen, that I may announce to you, its
growing more irksome and difficult — the convention
have order'd the first Resolve of the Committee to be
put rigidly in execution. You must proceed therefore
with vigor if the Suffolk carts do not come down they
must be press'd — Colonel Stephen will receive an order
24 THE LEE PAPERS. .
on this su1)ject. have you order'd Muhlenl )erg's Regi-
ment to march for Halifax ? I hope to God, yon have,
for no time is to be lost, as we have certain news of
the Enemy's arrival in the River Cape Fear. I set out
tomorrow myself, so you must direct your Letters on
Virginia Business to General Lewis, let Muhlenburg
have the waggons <fe provisions necessary as far as
Halifax. I hojje he has a Quarter master who is capa-
ble of acting as Commissary for so small a body as one
Regiment, Capf Knox will follow the Regiment, so
the Colonel must not wait for him. You may inform
him that I have also order'd stores of all kinds for his
Regiment to Halifax — once more, I entreat he may
march immediately. I desire no more prisoners on
their Parole may be admitted on shore. They do mis-
chief. , I have left your Canteens with Colonel Finney,
but have taken the liberty to exchange the l;)ottles as
your's are larger than mine. Adieu D'' Colonel. God
bless you.
C. Lee.
My comj^liments to all your People. If the Baron
has set the works of the bridge agoing — send him to
Halifax, but you must furnish him with the money he
wants to discharge his Debts at the Bridge, and bear
his expenses on the Road. Your Regiment cfe the 2'^
will be relieved as soon as possible.
Col. William Woodford,
Kemp's.
FnoM RiciiAKD Hekey Lee.
Pliiladelphia 11*" May 177G.
My beak FniEND,
Since I wrote you last nothing of consequence hath
happened, unless it be, that the Roel)uck tt Liverjioole
THE LEE PAPERS. 25
coming ujj tlie river Delaware, were met a few miles
abov^e New Castle by tlie 13 Gondolas of tliis city, and
after a cannonade of 3 lionrs eacli day for two successive
days, the sliips returned down the I'iver, and the Gal-
lies to their former Station — The latter unhurt, and the
former repulsed after being pretty well pepperVl with
shot from 18 to 32 pounders. My friendship for you is
so strono;, and the sense I have of the oblio-ations Ame-
rica is under to you so high, that I shall ever pray the
liberty of being full and free on every suljject that ma-
terially concerns you. I find a spirit prevailing here,
which leads its possessors to regard with a jealous eye,
every instance of deviation (in a military or naval
Commander) from the line of instructions, and every
undertaking productive of expense which is not war-
ranted ])y express order of Congress. Thus animat-
ed, I find some Gentlemen expressing dissatisfaction
at your having promised forage and rations to such
Cavalry as might be asseml)led in Virginia, <k likewise
because of the boats you had ordered to be built for
the security of the Rivers. You know my fiiend that
the S23irit of liberty is a jealous spirit, and that Sena-
tors are not always wise and candid, but that frequently
they are governed l)y envy, enmity, and a great variety
of bad passions — Upon these considerations, may it not
be j^rudent when it can be done, without danger, to the
common cause previously to obtain the Consent of Con-
gress, Avhere much deviation from the usual rotine of
business is requisite, and especially where expence is
created thereby. Such, is the opinion entertained of
you, that when you 23ress a thing as necessary, if it is
in the power of Congi'ess, I am inclined to think a ma-
jority of that Body will readily adopt the measure.
What I hear and see has induced me to say thus mucli
— ^I am satisfied that verbum sajnenti sat <?.v^— some still
continue to gape for Commissioners, altho' there is no
more reason to expect any than to look for virtue from
a Tory, or wisdom from a fool. I fancy the Hessian,
Hanoverian, tfc Highland Commissioners, will shortly
26 THE LEE PAPERS.
give us a different kiud of treaty from the one tliat has
been expected. We have no very late authentic ac-
counts from Canada, but those we have, do not remove
all hope of Quel^ec being ours before assistance can
reach it.
The Proprietary Colonies do certainly obstruct and
perplex the American Machine — Those who wisli delay,
and want nothing done, say, let the people in the Colo-
nies begin, we must not go before them — -Tho' they
well know the language in the Country to be, Let the
Congress advise. In fact, the other Colonies must do
what is right, and on giving proper and positive orders
to their Servants in Congress, the Proprietary men Avill
be obliged to pursue the right road. Before this
reaches you I suppose the powder and medicines will
be arrived, and the Blankets and shoes will quickly
follow. We have had 23 Tons of powder, and a good
deal of Saltpetre arrived within these 10 days. Since
writing the above, a french Gentleman, who a2:)pears
sensible and clever, has been Avith us. His letter is en-
closed. He has been bred to Cavalry, and wishes to
serve in Vir2:inia. As a Committee of Cono-ress has
already reported against having Contmental Cavalry
in North Carolina, I suppose the same opinion will pre-
vail resj)ecting Virginia. But the measure is so wise
and necessary for the defence of our Colony, that I wish
and hope a few squadrons will l)e formed on Colonial
expence, in which case, this Gentleman w'^ answer well
as an Instructor & Commander.
Farewell my dear friend,
RiciiAED Henry Lee.
To General Washington.
AVilliamsbui-gh, May 11, 1770.
Dear General :
I should be deficient in gratitude as well as duty if
I did not recommend in the strongest terms, Ca])tain
THE LEE PAPERS. 2i
Grier. He bas sliown so mucli care, iudustry, zeal, and
activity, that I entreat you will patronize liini in the
most particular manner. You will oblige me, there-
fore, in the highest degree, by taking him under your
protection.
I am, dear General, affectionately and entirely
yours,
Chaeles Lee.
To His Excellency General Washington.
From Christopher French.
Hartford, 13*^ May 1776.
Sir,
You, no doubt remember that, when you pass'd
through this Place in January last, you made a Bett of
Ten Guineas with me that Queljec would l)e taken by
the Provincials in the Course of the cuiTent Winter;
That event has not happen'd (nor is there now the
least prospect that it ever will, as there are accounts,
not only of its having been reinforc'd by a part of His
Majesty's Fleet, and a large Body of his Troops, but
that His Excellency Gen^ Carleton has drove them
entirely from before it) <fe, indeed, your o^vn Papers,
unaccustom'd as they are to communicate to the Public
anything which argues against their Successes, have
lately insei'ted some very desponding Letters from that
Quarter ; They also regret that you was not sent there
to command them, and though, as you are become our
Enemy, I cannot be so gross as to wish you had with
success, yet I am not so much yours, as to envy you the
Honor you might have acquir'd by a well concerted
Retreat which, though you might not have effected, yet
I know you would have attempted, a circumstance
which, from vour l^eino; at the head of such raw <fe un-
disciplined Forces could only have added to the bril-
28 THE LEE PAPERS.
liancy of your measures. You will he pleas'd to direct
M"" Lawrence, Treasurer liere, to j^ay me, which will
much oblige
Sir,
Your most obt. hl:)le. Servant
Chris. French.
To Gen^ Lee,
AYilliamsburg
Savannah, Georgia.
Fiio^r Brig. Gen. James Moore.
Wilmington, N° Carolina, May 19, 1776.
Sir,
Since sealing my letter to you by the Express, Col.
Nash (who is with a detachment about 11 Miles from
Fort Johnson) writes me that the Enemy have landed
1700 Men Sl some pieces of Artillery <fe formed a Camp
f of a Mile back from the Fort. There is between
sixty and 70 Sail of Topsail Vessels in this River, and
the following Ships of War, viz: The Solbay, &
Action, 28 Guns each, Spinx and Mercury 20 Guns
each. Scorpion and Falcon 14 Guns each, & the Bristol
of 50 Guns laying off the bar. Sir Peter Parker has
hoisted his flag on board the Solbay. I have the honor
to be
Sir,
Your obed" hble. Servant
J A. Moore.
Major Gen^ Lee.
From Henry Stuart, Etc.
Gentlemen,
Sometime ago M"" Cameron cfe myself wrote you a
letter hj M' Thomas & inclosed you the talk we had
with the Lidians respecting the Purchase which 'tis re-
THE LEE PAPERS. 29
ported you lately made of tliem for tlie Rivers Wattau-
ger, Nolieliucky &"". We are since informed tliat you
are under great apprehensions of the Indians doing Mis-
chief, but it is not the design of his Majesty to set his
Friends and Allies the Indians on his liege subjects.
Therefore, however if you are willing to join his Majes-
ty's forces as soon as they arrive at the Cherokee Na-
tion l)y repairing to the Kings Standard, shall find pro-
tection, and their Families and Estates be secure from
all Danger whatever. Yet that his Majesty's Officers
may ])e certain which of you are willing to take up Arms
in defence of the Kings just rights, I have thought fit
to recommend it to you every one that is desirous of
preventing inevitable ruin to himself and Family imme-
diately to subscribe a ^vritten Paper, acknowledging
their Allegiance to his Majesty King George, and that
they're ready and willing whenever call'd on to appear
in Arms in defence of the British Rights in America,
which Paper as soon as it is assigned send to me by some
safe hand, should any of the Inhabitants be desirous of
knowing how they are to be kept free from every kind
of insult or danger, inform them that his Majesty will
immediately land an Army in West Florida, and march
them through the Creek Nation to the Chicasaws where
500 Warriors from each Nation are to join them and
then come by the Cherokees, who have also promised
their Assistance, then take possession of the Frontiei'S
of North Carolina, & Virginia, at the same time that
his Majesty's. Forces make a Diversion on the coasts of
them Provinces. If any of the Inhabitants have Cattle,
Pack Horses, Flour to spare by applying to us they
shall have a good price for them as soon as his Majes-
ty's trooj^s are embodied.
I am Gents, &"
Heis^ky Stuart,
Dej^uty Sujjerintendent.
Wattauger, ss.
This day came Nathaniel Reed before me one of the
Trustees assigned to keep the Peace for the district
30 THE LEE PAPERS.
aforesaid, and make Oatli ou the Holy Evangelist and
Almighty God, that a Stranger rode up to M'" Rol^ert-
son's yesterday in the Evening. Who he was he did
not know and delivered a letter, a true copy of which
is above.
Given under my hand this 19th May 1776.
JoH]^ Caeter.
Test : Jas Smith.
A true Copy of a letter laid before the Virginia
Convention.
Ed:\i° Pendletoist, P''-
To Brigadier Gei^eral Mooee.
Halifax, May y'^ 20*^ 1776.
Sir,
In consequence of a letter from the Committee of
Safety of your Province, apprizing us of the arrival of
several transports in Cape Fear Kiver, as also of the
weakness of the Province from the consideration of the
num1;)er of Enemy's lodged in your bosoms (the High-
landers and Regulators) the Convention of Virginia
voted immediately a body of thirteen hundred militia
and minute men to march for this Province, on my part,
I order'd a Battalion of Riflemen to rendezvous at Hali-
fax. I suppose they will arrive tomorrow. I shall then
march without delay to Newljern, unless I am inform'd
on the rout that the Enemy are reimbark'd, which I am
inclin'd to tLink will be the case, for since the overthrow
of their scheme by Colonel Caswell's victory I cannot
see what advantages they can propose to themselves by
any operations in North Carolina, it is probable Rage
and revenge (which at present alone seem to actuate the
King and his accursed instruments) may inspire 'em
before their departure with the lust of destroying Wil-
mington — l;)ut I am in hopes you are already strong
THE LEE PAPERS. 31
enougli to prevent the accomplisliment. The Assurances
whicli yon may give your people that a body is on their
march to support them, will probably add to their nat-
ural spirit and vigor. You may easily conceive, Sir,
how perplexing is my situation — it is my duty to super-
intend the Security and safety of four wide extended
Provinces, the enemy being furnished with canvass
wings can fly with exj)edition from one quarter to ano'
I may of course be in the North when apparently I ought
to be in the South, or in the South when I ought to be
in the North ; I may be censur'd without any real deme-
rits — this consideration gives a check to my motions
which wou'd otherwise be more rapid, for instance, cou'd
I be assur'd that it was the intention of the Enemy to
lodge themselves seriously in this Province, I w^ou'd post
night <fe day to join you. -se- •??• * -h- «•
To Brig, Gen. Moore,
at Cape Fear.
Feom Richakd Heney Lee.
Philadelphia, 21^* May, 1776.
My deae Feiend,
As I wrote you yesterday by your Express, I have
now only to thank you for your favor by last post. If
you discovered any languor in my letters it must have
been merely corporeal, the mental powers having been
just as vigorous as ever. Excessive writing and constant
attention to business afflicts me a good deal I own, but
they are far from depressing my spirits in the great
cause of America, and if you were to consult with our
"moderate men in and out of doors you would think me
possessed of something else than languor. The mis-
chievous instructions from some Colonies have indeed
fettered Congressional Councils, but many of these are
done away, and the rest will be so immediately The
32 THE LEE PAPERS.
[late] Resolve of Congj-ess respecting government Lath
wrought a great change hereabouts, and very soon the
Puljlic affairs will wear a different aspect, and be
directed with better spirit. I expect an expedition to
Detroit will be undertaken, Niagara will probaljly be
suspended, as the Indians thereabout wish it to continue
a place of trade yet awhile. A Gentlehian just from
N. York, tells us that 70 sail of Transports with 10,000
troops were arrived off the Hook; and that Gen.
Washington was dispatching an Express to Congress, a
confirmation is hourly expected. They have made the
works aljout N. York very strong, and tho' the detach-
ment of 10 Battalions to Canada, has not left above
8,000, yet 10, or 12000 militia may be thrown in, so
that we apprehend no danger from that quarter.
Farewell, my dear Sir,
Richard Henry Lee.
Early •in April I gave you an Account of the affair
of the Annapolis Council.
General Lee, Connnander of the Continental Forces
in the Soutliern Department, at Williamsburg,
Virginia.
Proceedings of the Maryland Convention.
In Convention, Annapolis, May 21'^' 17 70.
Resolved, that it is the o])iiiion of this Convention
that the Council of Safety of this ])rovince, upon the
subject of the Jate intercepted letters to Governor Eden,
duly ik j)roperly exercised the powers delegated to them.
Resolved, tluit it is the opinion of this Convention,
that upon the evidence befoi'e them of the correspon-
delice which his Excellency Governor Eden has from
time to time held with Administration, it does not
appear that such C()iTes])ondence has Ijeen with an un-
THE LEE PAPEES. 33
friendly intent or calculation to countenance any hostile
measures against America.
Whereas by a late intercepted letter from Lord
George Germain, one of the Secretaries of State, to Iiis
Excellency the Governor, it appears that a great arma-
ment of land and sea forces was in readiness to proceed
to the Southward, in his Lordships expression " in order
to attempt the restoration of legal government in that
part of America," but in effect to invade and subdue the
Southern Colonies, which Armament was to proceed in
the first place to T^orth Carolina, and from thence to
South Carolina, or Virginia, as circumstances of greater,
or less advantage should point out, if to the latter, it
might have very important consequences to this pro-
vince, and therefore, in the said letter, his Excellency
is called on well to consider of every means by which
he may, in conjunction with Lord Dunmore give facility
and assistance to the operations of the said Armament.
And Whereas the Governor must, if he remains in the
exercise of the powers of government, fulfill and execute
the instructions of Administration, or hazard the dis-
pleasure of the King, which it cannot be expected he
will do ; And Whereas by Act of Assembly of this Pro-
vince, the powers of Government, in the absence of the
Governor, devolves upon the President of the Council,
and therefore the Governor's departure cannot occa-
sion a dissolution, or suspension of the present estab-
lished form of Government within this province
which this convention doth not think oug:ht now to be
changed.
Therefore Kesolved, that it be signified to the Gov-
ernor that the publick quiet and safety in the judgment
of this convention require that he leave this province;
<fc that he is at full liberty to depart peaceably with his
effects.
Resolved, that a Committee of five persons be ap-
pointed to wait on his Excellency with a copy of the
above resolutions, together with the following Address,
to wit :
You II.— 3
34 THE LEE PAPERS.
To His Excellency Eobert Eden, Esq. Governor of
Maryland.
May it please yonr Excellency,
We are commanded by the Convention to wait upon
your Excellency to communicate to you the Resolutions
they have this day entered into, 6z are instructed to
assure your Excellency that the Convention entertains
a favorable sense of your conduct relative to the affairs
of America since the unhappy differences have subsisted
between Great Britain and the United Colonies, as far
as the same hath come to their knowledge, and of their
real wishes for your return to resume the government of
this province whenever we shall happily be restored to
peace and that connection with Great Britain, the inter-
ruption and suspension of which have filled the mind of
every good man with the deej^est regret. From the dis-
position your Excellency hath manifested to promote
the real interests of both Countries, the Convention is
induced to entertain the warmest hopes and expecta-
tions, that, upon your arrival in England, you ^vill re-
present the temper and princij^les of the people of
Maryland with the same candour you have hitherto
shewn ; and that you will exert your endeavours to pro-
mote a reconciliation, upon terms that may be secure
and honourable both to Great Britain and America.
Extracts from the Minutes:
G. DUVALL.
To Edmund Pendleton.
Halifax, May y° 24*'^ 177G.
Sir,
The disorderly mutinous and dangerous disposition
of the soldiers of the 8"' Beg* have detain'd me longer
in tliis place than I cou'd have wish'd more particularly
as We hear (tlio the accounts are not well authenticated)
THE LEE PAPERS. 35
tliat tlie wliole fleet of Transports under Lord Corn-
wallis is arrived at Cape Fear. We have at length
after infinite trouble got this Banditti out of the Town
and of course I set out myself immediately, on the road
I expected an express from General Moore ascertaining
me of the Enemy's motions and intentions, as it is more
than probable that They will re-embark and bend their
course towards Virginia I shall proceed slowly, that on
the supposition They do re-embark my journey l)ack
may require less time — but as it is still possible that
They may seriously have thoughts of lodging them-
selves in this Province, I wish to be so near that I can
join General Moore in forty eight hours — Newbern for
these reasons seems a proper station untill I can obtain
some further lights with regard to their designs — the
spirit of desertion in these back Country Troops is so
alarmingly great that I must submit it to the wisdom
of the Convention whether it is not of the utmost im-
portance to devise some means to put a stop to it Ijefore
it spreads, by enjoining the Committees of the different
Counties to seize every Soldier who cannot produce an
authentic discharge or j^ass and throw him into the
County jail until He can be convey'd to the Keg* to
which He belongs — or by some other means — but the
Convention are much better Judges than I can possibly
be of the proper method to be pursued. I can only
afiirm that unless some effectual method is devis'd and
adopted it will be impossible for us to keep the Field —
the old Countrymen particularly the Irish whom the
officers have injudiciously inlisted in order to fill up
their Companies have much contaminated the Troops ;
and if more care is not taken on this head for the future
the whole Army will be one mass of disorder, vice, and
confusion — altho' I have so great reason to complain of
the misconduct of this Reg* I must do the officers, par-
ticularly the Field officers the justice to say that their
conduct is in general very satisfactory.
The Gentlemen of this Province with whom I have
couvers'd seem to me a little too secure in the perswa-
1128419
'>6 THE LEE PAPERS.
sion tliat the Higlilanders and Regulators are incapaci-
tated from acting. General Howe as well as myself is
of a different opinion, so that upon tlie whole the vote
of Virginia Convention to march the Militia may be
attended with most salutary effects, and cannot with-
any bad ones- — had I not consider'd the spirit of deser-
tion [of a] very alarming nature, I should not have
troubled the Convention with this letter — As you will
perceive that it contains no other matter of sufficient
importance for their perusal; — but I once more request
that They will take this affair into their consideration
and devise some means of stifling the evil l^efore it get
too o'reat a head.
I am Sir, Yours,
.Charles Lee
To Colonel .
Tarborough, May y" 25'^ 1776.
D^ Colonel —
I have so great a reliance on your discretion and
the zeal of a great part of your officers that I am per-
swaded the directions I leave will be literally (and
without confusion) followed.
It is my intention that you shall march to Duplins
Court House and there encamp (as you have no tents)
in the Indian manner as convenientl}^ to your people as
possilde.
You will find all necessaries both for your men and
horses at proper stations 'till you arrive at Harrison s
on Bears Creek where the roads fork, here you will
meet with a M' Miller who will repair to this fork, con-
duct you to the Court House, and supply you with all
kinds of provisions for your Corps — At this Camj) you
must wait for further orders.
I am myself ol)ligVl to proceed by the way of New-
bern. I hear that two of your oflicers have behavVl
extremely ill ; for God's sake send them about theii'
THE LEE PAPEES. 37
busyness quietly — if TLey consent to be dismiss'd qui-
etly — but if They are refractory leave 'em in arrest at
this place under the care of Colonel Erwin till They
can be brought formally to a Court Martial. I wish
you much more ease and satisfaction in your march
than you have hitherto experienced.
Yours
\ Chakles Lee. '
' Send some officer to My Miller who lives six miles
from the fork to apprise him of your arrival and your
wants.
You will put the Waggon with the Intrenching
tools under the direction of Col?' Irwin of this Place,
who will forward them under a Gruard of a party of
his Reo-iment to AVilmino^ton.
I desire you will not halt in this Town, without you
find it absolutely necessary, and then only for a little
time.
To Edmund Pendleton.
' Tarborough, May y" 25*!^ 1776.
Sir,
As I tTiink it my duty to convey every information
of the motions and intentions or even the surmises of
the motions and intentions of the Enemy to the Con-
vention of Virginia of whom I have so high an opinion,
and for whom my veneration increases daily, I take the
lil)erty to inclose Copies of the letters I have received
from General Moore and Mf Rutledge — from the im-
port of these letters you will see that the most probable
conjecture is that their first object is S. Carolina — You
will of course have time to put your Province in some
state of defence. I hope and conjure that no time may
be lost in attempting to raise batteries on the shoals
and banks of the rivers which form their respective
channels, I must likewise urge the necessity of imme-
38 THE LEE PAPERS.
diately raising a body of Horse, the necessity of wliicli
I feel every day .more sensibly^ — -We cannot really do
witliout them. We met on the road two officers from
S. Carolina, a M^ Drayton and M5 Elliot, whose l^us}'-
ness is to petition your Convention to permit them to
recruit in Virginia, it not being possible to find Men in
their Province — it appears to me that on one hand it is
absolutely necessary for the common safety that this
permission shou'd l)e given, on the other that many in-
conveniences ^vill result from it — their bounties are so
high that it may render the recruiting of the Virginia
Regiments more difficult. The Men may grow exorbi-
tant in their demands — the case is j^erplexing, but of
two evils We must chuse the least. Suppose, Sir, for
I confess I speak at a venture, you were to order a
draft of Volunteers from the different Regiments, that
the Caroliners were to refund the bounty money which
had been given to your men, and to add as a tempta-
tion what They think proper. I do not believe that l)y
adopting this method many of the native Virginians
will offer themselves— the Irish, I am perswaded in
croAvds — to this, one objection may be made, that you
will 2^urge your Army of bad subjects at the expense
of another Province — but I must ol:)serve that the ordi-
nances of S. Carolina are much better calculated to
keep these sort of refractory spirits in ordef than the
Continental Ordinances — their laws are more severe,
and severity is necessary for an Irish soldiery — I'm
well acquainted ^vith their dispositions, and know that
the lenient measures and familiar manners adapted to
the genius of your people only tend to inspire the Irish
with the Spirit of stubbornness and mutiny — I must
repeat. Sir, that I only offer an opinion, and wouVl not
])e thought to advise — it is so late at night that you
will ])ardon the conciseness of this letter, and believe
me to ])ii with the greatest respect Sir,
Your most obedt and liumlde Serv!'
CiiAKLEs Lee.
P. S. The personal civil things to me express'd by
THE LEE PAPERS. 39
MT Riitledge are left as tliey are not tlirough vanity,
but I really liad not time to [erase] them — As it is
possible that the mode I have liinted may occasion some
discontent to the officers who have taken pains to form
Companies, it may not be amiss previously to any reso-
lution to consult with the Colonels.
From Isaac Reed to Gen". Lewis.
Smithiield, May 25, 1776.
Dear General,
I reached Smithfield this afternoon from Williams-
burg, and am informed (I think from good authority)
that Lord Dunmore with his Fleet, intends takeing pos-
session of Kent Island in the Province of Maryland,
just below Annapolis, and opj^osite to the Mouth of
Patuxent, which afEords a fine harbour for it ; the Is-
land is al30ut thirty miles long, contains a great variety
of live stock, and promises an exuberant harvest of
grain. I have taken the lil^erty of giveing you this in-
telligence, in expectation that something may be done
immediately to prevent their progress in landing and
fortifying themselves ; this Island lies on the Eastern
shore of that province, where the inhal)itants it is said,
are allmost all Tories, and possibly will make little or
no opposition. A report prevails here, that an engage-
ment has very lately happened at Cape Fear, brought
on by an attempt of the Enemy to land, in which they
sustain'd a loss of four or five hundred men, and their
landing j^revented. I can't vouch for the truth of this
report, but on the contrary am induced to discredit it.
I have the honor to be, ISir,
Y"^ mo. obt. Servant
Isaac Reed.
To Brigadier General Lewis,
in Williamsljuro:.
40 the lee papers.
From Brigadier General Moore.
Wilmington, May 26, 1776.
Sir,
Your letter of the 20 instant I Lave received and
Avislied it was in my ])ower to give you sucli informa-
tion as miglit enal)le you to penetrate tlie real designs
of the Enemy. General Clinton has been assured by
one Campl)ell, who a few days since went on Ijoard the
Palliser, Transport, laying at Fort Johnson, that he
had been authorized by the Highlanders and Regulators
to let him know they wou'd immediately join him if he
would march into their Settlements ; how far he may
be induced to take a step of this Nature, I am not able
to Judge. The person who gave this information fur-
ther informs me the Enemy are landed and Eneamp'd
about ^ a Mile from the Fort, with several pieces of
Cannon and that he saw one Waggon on shore. I have
reason to believe that Governor Martin uses his utmost
endeavours to prevail with the General to make this
Province the scene of Action, wliile Lord William
Campbell is not less Solicitous for having the War im-
mediately carried into South Carolina; the latter I am
of opinion will be the object of Genl. Clinton's Atten-
tion, it being almost impossible for him to march far
into this Province without a considerable number of
horses and waggons. I have the greatest reason to believe
the King's Troops, now landed, do not exceed 3,250
Men, Marines included. A number so inconsiderable
I conceive, can never ])e intended to act against a pro-
vince so populous as Virginia, which confirms me in
the opinion that South Carolina is the place of their
destination. Should the Battalion of Eillemen men-
tioned in your letter, join the Regular Troo])s and
Militia here, I believe we shall not have occasion for
the Minute Men and Militia voted l^y the Convention
of Virginia for this Service. I shall take every possi-
ble step to discover the course of the Eneniys should
THE LEE PAPERS. 41
they leave tliis River, and will advise you of the same ;
from my belief of tlieir intentions against South Caro-
lina I have had intelligent persons stationed on the
banks of the sea near little River to watch their course
if they should ap]iear that way, and to send an Ex-
press for Charles-To\^Ti. I shall do the same to the
Northward, tfc advise you as earl}^ as possible, and fol-
low your directions in every particular.
The Enemies out posts will be attacked to night,
with about 200 Men under the command of CoP Nash.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedt. hljle Serv*
J A. MoORE,
Major Gren. Lee
at Newbern.
Brig^- Gen'
Address EROii Intiabitants of Newberist.
To his Excellency General Lee, Esq. Commander in
Chief in the Southern Department of the United
American Colonies.
May it Please your Excellency :
The Committee and other Inhabitants of the town
of Newbern impressed with a Lively sense of your gene-
rous and manly exertions in defence of American
Rights and Liberties, are happy in having an oppor-
tunity of paying our gratefull tribute of thanks and of
offering our most cordial Congratulations on your arri-
val amonor us.
At a time when this Province is actually invaded
by a powerfull fleet & army, the anxiety natural on the
occasion, is not a Little alleviated by the Command of
the forces destined for its protection being placed in the
hands of a gentleman of your distinguished character.
The Inhabitants of this Province tho' different in
42 THE LEE PAPERS.
point of discipline, are as sensible of the inestimable
blessings of freedom as our Neighbors — and we flatter
ourselves under your prudent arrangement will as suc-
cessfully oppose the hostile designs of our Enemys.
And we Beg your Excellency will do us the Justice
to believe that nothing in our power shall be wanting
to add strength and facility to your opperations in this
Pi'ovince.
May 27'^ 1776.
From Gen^eral Andrew Lewis.
Williamsburg, May 27'^ 1776.
Dear General,
On the 23''^ instant I was informed that the Enemy
had abandoned their Post at Portsmouth and that their
Fleet had fell down to the Mouth of James River, and
ranged themselves opposite to Hampton, to which
place I rode on the 24"' and found them as reported.
On the 25'^ in the Evening they got under sail and fell
down to the Road. On the 26"' early in the morning
they appeared to stand out to sea, but instantly tacked
about and ran up the Bay, having a strong and fair
wind, by one o'clock about 50 of the Fleet reached the
Mouth of Peanketank. Col. Dangerfield marched what
men he had towards tlie Fleet ; when within a mile and
a half of them, he met a flag from Dunmore requesting
liberty to water and purchase jn'ovisiou, ^vhich was re-
fused. I have ordered all of Col. Dangerfield's Battal-
ion on this side York River to join him witli all ])ossible
sj^eed. I am not appreliensive of any other ill conse-
quences attending from the present station of the Fleet,
than their possessing themselves of what stock is upon
Gwins Island at the mouth of Peanketank. Had I
known of such Island and stock, which is said to be
considerable, I should have (long e'er now) ordered
every Tiling that could have contrilnited to the support
of the Enemy to be removed. I send you a Letter I
THE LEE PAPERS. 43
received from Col" Reed, wlio thinks his information
may in a great measure be depended on. Its more than
probable Lord Dunmore is but too well informed, that
the Marylanders are greatly divided in sentiment with
Regard to the measures necessary to be pursued in De-
fence of the Common Cause (the Curse of Scotland at-
tend the disaffected for such they must he who endeavour
to thro^v obstructions in the way of such who are declar-
ing for Independence) this may promj^t him to take post
in Kent Island. He may have something further in
view, in case General Clinton and he have concerted a
Phm, hj which Clinton is to act in this Government
with his Army, he may hope, that our Troops will be
drawn from their present stations in order to oppose
him where he may take post, or endeavour to distress
the Inhabitants by the advantage he has of armed ves-
sels, which would give Clinton an opportunity of effect-
ing his Purposes without much opposition. Since I
wrote the above we have the disagreeable news from
Quel^ec, which you will receive \vith this. Mortifying
indeed, that our cannon, small arms, and powder should
fall into the Hands of our Enemies without Resistance.
This unhappy affair will I am afraid fix the Indians
(who were too much inclined to our Enemies) against
us. We have most alarming^ Intellio-ence from the
Cherokee Nation, many emissaries being amongst them
with a very large quantity of powder, and their de-
clared Intention of acting against us. The Companies
of the 4'^ and d^^ Battalions that were in this Quarter
have marched to Suffolk and the great Bridge, those of
the 1^* and 2nd whom they were to relieve, or have by
this time relieved, not come, nor do I know that they
are got on their march — Col° Mercers are on their
march, this Day they were to leave Fredericksburg, so
that at present TCol. Dangerfields being on their march
to join him) we have but very few to do Duty of any
kind, and must remain so untill those ordered to this
Place reach us. M" Stradler reports that it Avould take
two or three hundred men several months to make such
44 THE LEE PAPEES.
works at Batclielors Point as would prove efPeetual, tliis
being the Case in our present weak state cannot under-
take it. We cannot hy any means spare more than
two Companies at Bur^vell's Ferry, so that the works
at that Place must go on but slowly, until we are rein-
forced. M"" Hunter is directed to send down the large
Rifles as soon as possible. The Quartei* Master General
is causino; slino^s to be made for the Grenadiers, The
small number of Smiths we have are not at all equal to
the work, nor liave I been able to procure more. I have
advertised for some Smiths. I wish it may prove a
means of procuring those very necessary workmen — -M""
Stradler for want of proper Instruments (as he tells me)
has not been able to make a satisfactory E,e23ort of the
Practical )ility of erecting a Battery to correspond with
that at James Town. The works at York and Hamp-
ton goes on as well as can be expected from the number
at those Stations. I exj^ect M^ Madison who was sent
to the back country to j^urchase Rifles down soon with
what he has purchased the number not yet known, but
I am told pretty considerable — since you left us a con-
siderable number of firelocks has been l:)rought from
Pensylvania, but so exceedingly bad that they could
not be received, and are canied back. I have this mo-
ment by express from Col. Dangerfield Information
that two or three hundred of the Enemy have landed
on Gwins Island, and still continue to land fast. It's
said that the Distance Ijetween the Island and mainland
is near ^ of a mile, that there are some thousands of
Sheep, great stocks of cattle and 10 or 12 poor Fam-
ilies Is it not strangle that none of the Gentlemen
who were acquainted with those circumstances ever
reported the Case, for my part I may with the greatest
Truth say, that I never heard of such a Place Ijcfore
the Enemy reached it. Capt. Seyars has finished the
works at Cumberland very compleatly. The Brigan-
tine Industry and Cargo recommended by Capt
Lilly is paid for and I suppose by this time fitted
for his Purpose, but circumstances at present will
THE LEE PAPERS. 45
not permit the Experimeut. I am with great respect
D" General
Your most obt. and very Humble Serv*
And""' Lewis.
Feom Riciiaed Henry Lee.
Phihadelphia 27 May 1776.
My Dear Friend,
The inclosed intelligence lately received from Eng-
land, will give yon a ])etter idea of the designs of our
enemies than any we have before received. In a letter I
have seen from London of unquestionable authority is
the following paragraph^ — ■" A General of the first abili-
ties and experience would come over if he could have
any assurance from the Congress of keeping his rank,
but that being very high, he would not submit to have
any one but an American his superior, and that only in
consideration of the confidence due to an American in a
question so peculiarly American." Let me have your
opinion of this matter. Prince Ferdinand's recom-
mendation of the General mentioned above is in these
words " Si I'on veut un Ofiicier aprouv^, intelligent,
et brave; je ne scai si on peut trouver un autre qui le
vaille."
There is no person in America can answer this para-
graph so well as yourself. Our friend Gates, who with
Generals Washington and Mifflin (the latter lately made
a Brigadier, and M"" Gates, a Major General) are now
here, is of opinion that the officer desiring to come to
America is Major General Beckwith. But this is
merely conjecture, founded on the mans political prin-
cij^les, and his abilities as a Soldier. The papers I for-
merly sent you, with the evening post now enclosed,
will shew you the political convulsions of this Province,
but I incline to think that this sensible spirited people,
will not long be duped by Proprietary Machinations,
whatever may be the fate of Maryland. Apropos, what
46 THE LEE PAPERS.
do you think of tlie representative bodies of tliis latter
Province i Of all tlie extraordinary Phenomena of this
extraordinary age, these are the most extraordinary !
Is the Convention of Maryland, a Conclave of Popes, a
mutilated legislature, or an Assembly of wise Men ?
By the manner in which they dispense with Oaths, it
w*^ seem they conceived of themselves as the first of
those, for surely a mutilated legislature, an unorganized
government cannot do what these men by their liesolve
of May the 1 5*^^ have undertaken — Nor is their 2'' resolve
of the 21'* better founded, unless they can shew, which
I believe is not in their power, that the people had in
contemplation these things ^vhen they chose them, and
elected them accordingly. What do these folks mean
by a " Reunion ^viih Gr. Britain on constitutional p?'i}i-
012)1 es ? " I profess I do not understand them, nor do I
believe the best among them have any sensible ideas
annexed to these terms. But I have done Avith them
being satisfied they Avill never figure in history among
the Solons, Lycurgus's, or Alfred's. Our Commission-
ers in Canada seem to be on the fi'ight, hwi I hope
Thomas, Sullivan, Thomson, cfe° will restore the spirits
with our affairs in that Province. The disgrace a]')art,
our late capture of the valuable Transport to the East-
ward, much more than compensates for the loss before
Quel^ec. The Continental armed Ship, Franklin has cer-
tainly taken <fe secured a most valualjle Transport with 75
Tons of Gunpowder 1000 stand of arms, and a variety
of other useful articles valued at ,£50,000, this money.
The sensible and manly resolve of Virginia of the 15*'''
instant has gladdened the hearts of all wise and worthy
men here. It will powerfully contril)ute to sett things
right in these Proprietary governments. We have here
4 Tribes of the Six Nation Indians, and yesterday Ave
had betAveen 2 <fe 3 thousand men paraded on the Com-
mon to their great astonishment and delight. We hope
effectually to secure the friendship of these people.
FareAvell dear Sir, and be assured you have my
hearty Avishes for success and happiness. Can't Clinton
THE LEE PAPERS. 47
(If lie is on shore) be disturbed before the rest of his
Myrmidons join him?
My comj)liments to Gen. Howe.
RicHAED Henry Lee.
Gen. Lee.
Commander of the Continental Armies in the
Southern Department at Williamsburg,
Virginia
Richard Henry Lee to Thomas Lud Lee.
Philadelphia, 2S* May 1776.
My Dear Brother,
This is Post morning and I am obliged on a Com-
mittee of conference with the Generals Washington,
Gates, &, Mifflin by 9 on the operations of this Cam-
paign, so that I cannot j^ossiljly write to many of my
fi'iends and particularly Col° Mason. Pray make my
compliments to him, let him have the news sent, and
apologize for me. Col° Nelson is not arrived, but I
suppose he will by this day sennight, about which time
I shall sett out for Virginia, and after resting at home
a day or two, will attend the Convention at Williams-
burg. The sensible and spirited resolve of my Country-
men on the 1 5*^ has gladdened the heart of every friend
to human nature in this place, and it will have a
wonderful good effect on the misguided Councils of
these Proprietary Colonies. What a scene of deter-
mined rapine and roguery do the German treaties
present to us, and L'^ Dartmouths answer to the Duke
of Graf tons motion, 16^^ March, has shut the mouths of
all Gapers after Commissioners. The transport Prize
taken to the Eastward is extremely apropos. The
vessel and Cargo are valued at <£oO,000. We are not
without hopes of getting some more of the same flock,
if fortune should have se^^arated them from the Shej)-
herd, they will most probably fall. This is the Cam-
paign that we shall be most tried in probably, and we
48 THE LEE PAPERS.
should endeavour as far as human care can go to be
more invidneraljle than Achilles, not exposing even the
heel, where the stake is so immense. We have not
lately heard from Canada, but we hope for better news
soon than our last. A potent push will assuredly be
made there this Summer by our enemies, and if we can
prevent them from communicating with the Upper
Country, and thereby debauching the Indians, we shall
answer every good purpose there. The Roebuck is
gone from here crippled, but the Liverpoole I'emains
thinly manned and in want of provisions. It is to be
lipped that the death of the King of Portugal will pro-
duce something in Europe favorable to us. Let no
consideration interrupt your attention to the making of
Common Salt, Salt Petre & Arms ; and every kind of
encouragement should l^e given to all sorts of useful
manufacture.
Farewell my dear brother
RiCHAUD Heney Lee.
Our brothers in London were well, the 13. Febry.
last. I write Gen. Lee by this post — do see that the
letter is forwarded from Williamsburg.
R. H. Lee.
Thomas Lud Lee, Esquire
at Williamsburg, in Virginia.
FiioM Lieut. Colonel S. Elbert.
Savannah 28*^ May, 1776.
Sir,
A few days since, I received a pacquet from Thomas
Bullett, Esq. Deputy Adjutant General of the Southern
District, directing that a return of the Georgia Bat-
talion of Continental Troops be immediately made to
your Excellency ; in compliance therewith I take the
first opportunity of Inclosing the same.
THE LEE PAPERS. 49
The number of Men we Lave at j^resent, tlio' far
short of the Compliment, by much Exceed our expecta-
tions, considering tlie Infant state of the Colony, and at
the same time a much larger Bounty given by our
Neighbouring Province, in their Provincial Service, how-
ever, this you may depend upon. Sir, that the Officers
& what Soldiers we have are unexceptionable, and such
as will acquit themselves with Honor, whenever put to
trial ; pity it is, that they are badly armed, Avorse
clothed, and have no Camp Equipage at all, notwith-
standing which I am cei'tain, so hearty are they in the
Glorious Cause of their Country, that they Avould Cliear-
fully take the Field when necessary, tho' they should
have no other covering but the Canopy of Heaven.
We have undoubted Information of aljout a Thou-
sand Ministerial TroojDS being the other day at St.
Augustine, an Hundred of them with proper Officers
have marched for the Creek Nation of Indians, with
intent, no doubt, to be assisted by those Savages in
making a diversion on our AVestern Boundary.
This l:)eing the only Province from which our
Enemies could get fresh provisions, on account of our
inability to oppose them, I submit to your Excellency's
Judgment, whether an immediate additional Force
might not be necessary to prevent them, should they
make an attempt, in order to supply their Friends, who
may be acting against the Carolina's tfe Virginia which
'tis very probaljle they intend by having such a force
in the above Garrison. Our Colonel Mcintosh is at
present on some business to the Southward of the
province, he is expected to return in a few days when,
I have no doubt, he will give you every necessary in-
formation in his 2:)ower. I have the Honor to be
Respectfully.
Your Excellency's most obed' Serv*
S. Elbert — Lieu*- Col.
of the Georgia Battalion Continental Troops.
His Excellency Major General Lee.
YoL. II.— 4
50 THE LEE PAPEES.
Feom Edmund Peis^dleton.
W^^burg, June 1, 1776.
Sir,
I Lad the lionor of laying your favor of tlie 24*^
before the Convention, who were much [conce]rned to
hear of the mutinous temper of the Troops in [the]
S^^ Regiment, and will consider of some remedy to
check the progress of that alarming evil. The still un-
certain destination of Gen^ Clinton's Troops would
have made it j^roper for us to continue the assistance
of our Minutemen and Militia, formerly ordered to
North Carolina; but unluckily a few days ago on a
report that the Enemy had certainly left Cape Fear,
and that you were on your return to this Colony, the
convention ordered Expresses to be sent to stop the
march of those men, directing them to Rendezvous at
certain places and wait for Orders to i'e23air to any part
of this Colony, where they might be wanting. This
step, encouraged by the opinion of the two Gentlemen
from North Carolina, that the assistance was not want-
ing there, I hope may not prove detrimental to the
Service.
I am with great regard, Sir,
Your mo. obed* Servant
Edm° Peis^dletojst, ?"■
Hon. Major Gen. Lee.
To Edmund Pendleton.
Wilmington, 1 June, 1776.
SiK,
The whole enemy's fleet have sailed from Cii\:)e
Fear, the flrst division on Wednesday, the last yester-
day ; but it is far from l)eing ascertained whether they
have steered their course to the northward or to the
THE LEE PAPEE9. 51
soutliward. The people liere are all of opinion tliat
Cliarleston is their object. For my o"\\ni part I do not
see on Avhat they ground this persuasion. However,
as South Carolina is weaker in numbers than Virginia,
I have ordered Muhlenberg's regiment, at a venture,
to Charleston immediately ; as also a detachment of
seven hundred men from this place. I have been also
under the necessity of stripping this Province of sixteen
hundred pounds of gunpowder, which I must replace
from Yirsfinia.
As this colony is now a23j)arently no longer in danger,
I shall send an express to stop your militia, as they may
be wanted more in their own Province, and will now
be an unnecessary exj)ense.
I shall myself set out for Charleston tomorrow, but
at the same time confess, I know not wliether I shall
go to or from the enemy ; but if that capital is really
their object, their whole force will be collected in one
point, their operations will be more regular, and, con-
sequently, my presence as Commander-in-chief of the
district, more requisite; whereas, if Virginia is their
object, it is possible and probable their operations may
be merely predatory and piratical. If such are their
intentions, I am confident that your own officers ^vill
have little or no occasion for the advice or assistance
(such as they are) of, Sir, &,°
Charles Lee.
P. S. As I have not much time, and indeed there
being no al)solute necessity of trouljling the Congress
Avith any circumstances farther than expressed in this
letter, I must entreat. Sir, that you will send a copy of
it to the Cono-ress.
THE LEE PAPERS.
Feom Beig. GejSt. Andkew Lewis.
Williamsburg, June 3"^ 1776.
M'' Massenburg sets out to wait on you after being
detained several Days by sickness. I am obliged to
give him an Order on tlie Quarter Master for a Horse,
and tbo' lie lias received to the value of twenty Pounds
from Col. Woodford, which amounts to more than his
pay, that sum being necessarily expended, I have given
him an order on the Paymaster for twenty five dollars,
thinking it necessary he should w^ait on you with all
possible expedition. In my last to you I mentioned
the Enemy's landing on Gwin's Island. I lost no Time
in going to discover the situation of the Enemy. I
found them in possession of the Island. They had
thrown up part of a strong like Battery with some out
works, exclusive of an Intrenchment across a narrow
part of the Island, and had several armed vessels be-
tween the Island and the Main Land, this was a cir-
cumstance which I little expected, as I had been told
our men could wade to the Island, and at the veiy
place where we found armed sloops and Tenders get in
without the least obstruction. This being the case, all
I could do was to post Col. Dangerfield's Battalion so
as to prevent as much as possiljle any connection be-
tween Lord Dunmore's Banditti and the disaffected &
Negroes. I ordered a Battery to be erected at the
Narrows to prevent the Vessels getting out, as they
must return within sixty yards of our ^vorks, there
being a shoal that makes out at the lower end of the
Island two miles to'svards the Bay, but this cannot be
waded but at low water, and then up to the mens
Breasts, and that for four Miles exposed to the Fire
of as many of tlie Fleet as the Enemy might think
proper to lay near the shoals. I have ordered down
four pieces of Cannon, and hope to l)e able to oblige
the Enemy to burn the Vessels that have got in to
THE LEE PAPERS. 53
the Narrows. I propose sending tliree companies to
reinforce Col. Dano-erfield's battalion or more should
I find Dunmore reinforced, lint this will not l)e an easy
matter to come to the knowled^xe of. The Fleet beino;
so frequently m motion, some running out and others
returning every Hour. I shall do everything in my
power to prepare for the Reception of the Enemy. I
am extreamly willing to wish you a pleasing Tour and
every satisfaction you can wish for, but its morally im-
possible it can be the case.
I am D"" General
Your most obedt. and very humble Servt.
And'"" Lewis
B"^ Genl.
P. S. On being properly informed I find the stock
on the Island much less than at first represented, the
Cattle under 200, the sheep not more.
A. Lewis,
On the Service of the United Colonies.
To the Honble Charles Lee,
Major Genl. and Commander in Chief of the
Continental Army in y"" Southern District
p M"" Massenburg.
Mr. Massenburg has received fifteen dollars more
than mentioned within, in y*" whole forty dollars.
FeOM PEESIDEIfT RuTLEDGE.
June 4, 1776—5 o'clock, P.M.
Dear Sir,
I this moment received yours by Captain Mouat.
I wish you and a powerful reinforcement were now
here. For God's sake lose not a moment. There are
fifty sail or vessels at anchor off the bar, within sight
54 THE LEE PAPERS.
of the town, wliicli will, I suppose, come in witli to-
morrow's tide, if the wind is not unfavourable. Bring
us all the forces you can collect, to cope with this arma-
ment, either from North-Carolina, Virginia, or any part
of this Province you pass through. I send this express
to you, and send on the roads, and at the several fer-
ries, to facilitate your march.
In haste, Yours sincerely
J. RUTLEDGE.
To the Honourable Major-General Lee.
To THE President of Congress.
Little River on the road to Charlestown,
June 6th, 1776.
Sir,
You will perceive from the inclosed letters* the
necessity of reinforcing this Province & Georgia — the
Enemy will probably make it the Seat of war — Two
thousand men at least ought to be dispatch'd from
Pensylvania and Maryland to replace the Regiments I
shall order from Virginia. [Ten thousand weight of
powder is arrived safe at Charlestown.]
I am Sir, with the greates^fc Respect
Your most ob* hum^^® Servant
Charles Lee.
The Hon John Hancock.
* The letters inclosed were two from Gen. Armstrong, with the fore-
going letter from President Iliitledgc, giving information that the enemy
liad arrived off the bar at Charleston within sight of the town.
^THE LEE PAPERS. 55
To Brigadier General Lewis.
Little River on the Road to CliarlestoT\ai,
6tli. June, 1776.
Dear Sir,'
On the receipt- of this you must order as large a
body of the Regulars as cau possibly be spared to
march to Cross Creek in North Carolina — you may
either do it by Regiments or Detachments — it is now I
think certain that South Carolina <fe Georgia are their
object — lay these inclosed Letters before the Conven-
tion — send Copies of them to the Convention of Mary-
land — perhaj^s that Province can spare a Battalion or
two for the defence of Virginia which may l)e replaced
fi'om Pensylvania.
I am Dear General,
Yours
Charles Lee.
Br' Gen^ Lewis, Williamsburg.
P. S. The Letter for the Congress should be dis-
patch'd immediately — if any Cavahy are raised detach
them.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Thui'sday Morning, six o'clock. [June 6, 1776.]
Sir : — I am extremely obliged to you for your ac-
tivity and alertness. I beg you will order Long Island
to be reconnoitred well, and perhaps you will see a prob-
ability of attacking them with advantage from the
main; but this must be left to your own prudence. I
have ordered the two rascally carpenters who deserted,
to be searched for ; if they can be found, I shall send
them bound to you. I do not myself much like the
scheme of retreating by boats ; it cannot, I think, be
done ^\4thout confusion. But I think you ought to
56 THE LEE PAPERS.
have two means of retreat ; for which reason I must beg
that you will be expeditious in finishing the l)i'idge ;
and all the ])oats I can procure shall be likewise sent
to you. If j)ossible I Avill visit you to day.
I am, dear Sir, yours,
CiiAELEs Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colonel Moulteie.
Charlestowu, 8 o'clock, Jime 8th.
Sir : As Ave have received information that a body
of the enemy have landed, and are lodging themselves
on Long Island, and as the nature of the country is rej)-
resented to me as favourable to Riflemen, I must request
that you immediately detach Thompson's and Sumpter's
regiments. Captains Alston's, Mayham's and Coutirier's
companies, to that Island, Avith orders to attack, and, if
possible, dislodge this corps of the enemy ; but you
must, aliove all, take care that theii' retreat across the
breach from Long-Island to SulliA^an's Island is secured
to them in case of necessity. For Avhicli purpose, you
are desired to moA^e down to the point commanding the
breach tAvo field pieces ; the sooner it is done the better.
You are, therefore, to exert yourself in such a manner
that the attack may be made at break of day.
I am Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee,
To Col. Moultrie. Major-General.
To Colonel Moultrie.
CharlestoAvn, June 8, 1776.
Sir,
I liaA^e ordered a considerable reinforcement of Rifle-
men to join Colonel Thompson, Avhich, Avith the advan-
THE LEE PAPERS. * 57
tages of ground, ought to make you totally secure. I
shall be with you as soon as possible in the morning.
M" Bellamy Avill, I ho2:)e, be able to finish you a liriclge
to morrow.
I am, Sir, your most Obedient Servant
Chaeles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie,
Sullivan's Island
Peesident Rutledge to Coloxel Moulteie.
June 9'^ 5 o'clock
The command of all the Regular forces and Militia
of this Colony, acting in conjunction with them, l^eing
invested in Major-General Lee, orders issued by him
are to be ol^eyed.
J. Rutledge.
To Col. Moultrie.
To CoLOisTEL Moulteie.
June 10, 1776.
SlE,
You will receive a numljer of flats, ropes, and planks,
for the construction of bridges for your retreat. You
are to give a receipt, and be answerable for them.
I am Sir, yours
Chaeles Lee,
Major General.
Col. Moultrie.
P. S. I find my last night's letter was not sent. I
beg you would send a few expert scouts to discover
what the enemy have done, or are doing ; If it can
be done with the least prol^able advantage, put my last
night's orders in execution to-night.
58 the lee papers.
From Colois^el Moultrie.
Sullivan's Island, 7 o'clock June 10, 1776.
Sir:
I just now received your orders for detaching
Thompson and Sumpter's regiments, Allston, Maham,
and Coutii'ier's companies. By date of your letter, it
seems as if you intended this business to have been
done this morning, but your letter came too late to
hand for that purpose. I shall send the detachment to
our advance guard, there to remain with their boats for
crossing them, hid till night, then shall emliark them for
Long-Island, where they may be reconnoitring till day-
light. I shall be obliged to your Excellency to send us
some person to finish our gate.
I am, Sir, your most obedient
William Moultrie,
Col. 2*^ Regiment
To General Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie.
June 10, G oclock p.jl
Sir:
I am just returned from an excursion into the
Country. As the large ships are now over the bar, and
as your bridge must l)e finished; I would w^ish you
would lay aside all thoughts of an expedition against
Long-Island, unless your scouts bring such intelligence
r.s almost to insure a successful stroke.
I am. Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie, Sullivans Island.
THE LEE PAPERS. 59
To Colojstel Moultrie.
June 10, 1776. 8 o'clock.
Sir:
As the Commodore's sliip has passed the bar, and as
it is aljsoliitely necessary for your, and the common
safety, that the bridge of retreat should be finished this
night ; I would have you, by all means, to lay aside all
thoughts of the expedition against Long-Island ; unless
you receive assurances from your scouts, that you may
strike an important stroke.
Yours
Charles Lee, Major General.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colonel Moultrie.
June 11, 1776.
Sir :
As the main body of Horry's Regiment are at
Point Haddrell, Mayham and Coutirier's companies
should be included in the detachment to be sent to the
main.
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colojn^el Moultrie.
June 11, 1776.
Sir : I was much surprised that this morning the
Engineer should make a report to me that a l^ridge of
retreat was impracticable, as I understand that a few
days ago yourself and the other Field Ofiicers gave it
as yoTir opinions that it might be effected. If I had
boats, I should send them according to your request,
60 THE LEE PAPEK3.
but tliey are not to be bad. The flats, ropes, and an-
chors, were sent in consequence of your former opinion.
As I tbink your security will l;)e mucb greater l)y post-
ing a considerable l)ody of Riflemen on the Continent
than on the Island, I must desire that you will imme-
diately detach 400 of them to the continent : The}" are
to post themselves, or rather extend themselves, from
the left of Point Haddi-ell towards Long Island ; by
which means they will be able to prevent the enemy
from erecting works, to cut off your retreat. I would
order the whole body ofE the Island, but apprehend
it might make your garrison uneasy. You must order
this body to be alert in patroling, and if there is not
natural cover in this range, they must thi'ow up arti-
ficial ones. I request that this order may be instantly
obeyed — I am Sir, yours
Chaeles Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie.
I had rather you would make up this detachment
500. I hope the point of your Island, opposite to Long
Island, is secured against the enemy lodging there. I
have ordered boats to be found, if possible.
C. L.
Feom Thomas Burke.
Tyaquin, June ll*'^ 177G.
Sir,
This moment yours of the first Instant came to my
Hand. The Note Inclosed, directed to the Command-
ing Ofiicer of the Corps of Virginia Forces, Intended
for the Station of Hillsborough, I will use my best
endeavours to Transmit so soon as I can learn who he
is, or from what part of Virginia they are ordered, of
both I am now entu'ely uninformed having heard noth-
ing of such destination until I received ^our Letter. If
I can get no information iu my neighbourhood I will
THE LEE PAPERS. 61
send your Kote to the Commanding Officer of Plalifax
or Meeklinburg County ^yliieli lyeing contiguous to this,
ai-e most likely to have received orders to march hither.
I cannot say Sir, that I rejoice that the enemy have
abandoned their design on This Colony. Their Force
could not have effected' much against us, Ijut they may
prove troublesome to some of our Southern Neighbours
who are j^roljably not so well provided for Defence as
we are.
I beg leave Sir, to wish you all possible Success in
your Generous efforts for the Defence of the undoubted
Rights of Mankind, had the scene of action been where
we first Expected I intended to have put myself a vol-
unteer under your command, and to have contril;)uted
my little assistance towards that success which I am
assured would have attended your command. Remote
as the scene may be I shall not bear absence from it
with much patience, and were it not almost ruin to my
j)rivate affairs, no campaign should j)ass without re-
ceiving the little assistance I could personally give, for
tlio' I am no military character, nor ambitious of such
Distinction, the cause in which ^ve are now engaged, and
in which I have unremittingly struggled siuce the stamp
act makes me anxious to he a witness, and an actor
however Inconsiderable in every scene of Importance,
whether Military or Civil which may relate to it.
I have the honor to be with singular respect, Sir,
Your o]3ed* Servant,
Genl. Lee. Tho^ Burke.
From CoLois^EL .
Newbern, 12th of June, 1776.
Sir,
I had the Honour to receive y'' Excellency's Com-
mands from L*^ Col Irwin, relative to the JMarch of the
Regiment under my Command; be assured, I shall at
all times with the greatest punctuality obey any orders
issued by you, or any commanding Officer.
62 THE LEE PAPERS.
Since the receipt of the above, I have been favored
with a Letter from the Adjutant General direct^ Me
by your Orders to march with all possible dispatch to
Wilmington ; which I shou'd instantly have comj^lied
with, but for a very obvious Reason ; the great want
of Money to pay the Soldiery, the Bounty Money, &■
advance pay, I beg leave to be very candid with y"^
Excellency : when the Regiment was in Edenton, with
the greatest difficulty I restrained their Inclination for
desertion, by assuming to pay all their debts in that
Town; by a promise to see their demands properly
satisfied on their arrival at Newbern and to prevent any
desertion on the Road ; assured them that the Regiment
shou'd not proceed to Wilmington without their re-
ceiving satisfactory j^ayments — being fed up with these
Expectations, they behave themselves well, & I flatter
myself that I shall have it in my power to march to
Wilmington complete Company's. As there has not
been any Person deputed to meet the Regiment in
Newbern, I am compelled to send an Express to Colo.
Blount at Halifax for the necessary sum of money. So
soon as officers and men are satisfied in their just
demands, I pledge my honor for their instant March.
I sincei'ely wish your Excellency all possible success,
and I am with much Respect
Sir, Your obed. Ser*
On the Continental Service : Favored by Col. Salter.
To His Excellency Major General Lee.
Fkom Gen. Andrew Lewis.
William si )urg, June y" 12"' 1776.
Dear General,
I received your Favour dated Wilmington the first
of June, which was the first notice I had of Clinton's
THE LEE PAPERS. 63
sailing fi-om Cape Fear. As lie lias not yet appeared
on our Coast I have all tlie Reason imaginable to be-
lieve lie lias steered liis course for Charles Town or
more Southernly. I had Ijefore the recei])t of your
Letter wrote you twice (the first dated May the 27th,
the last June the 3'"'^) informing you of the Enemy's
abandonino; their Post at Portsmouth, and the whole
Fleet sailing to Gwin's Island, Sl" to which Informa-
tion I can only add, that they are still in possession of
that Island. I have ordered several Pieces of Cannon
at Gloucester Town to be mounted, which the work-
men are about, in order to have them mounted op-
posite the Enemy, and if possible to prevent some
small armed Vessels getting out which lie between the
mainland and the Island. I have sent under the Com-
mand of Col"* Mercer three companies to rieinforce Col"
Dangerfield's Battalion, and shou'd (e'er now) have
sent more, had it not been to us very uncertain what
steps Clinton might take. We have all the hiclination
you could wish to get on the Island, if we can by any
23robable means make the attempt, this must altogether
depend on Circumstances. Col. Stephens has taken
Post at Portsmouth, thinking it would ansAver better
Purposes to maintain that Ground than throw up
works at the great Bridge, as he took this step without
any application to me, I make no doubt of his having
given you Information and expects Instructions on that
head. I never being on that ground cannot judge of
the propriety of his Measures. The Convention hav-
ing had M" Stadlers Case under Consideration refused
making any addition to his Pay, but on my Representa-
tion to the House, they without a dissenting voice have
allowed him all he asked, but under this restriction
no longer than he serves in this Colony. He is now
throwing up some works opposite to the Island, he
thinks it will be exceedingly difficult to make a battery
opposite to that at James Town, from which any thing
can be expected. I have information that six waggon
Loads of Powder have crossed this colony for the
64 THE LEE PAPERS.
Carolina's, l3ut this wants confirmation. A small vessel
having got uj:) safe to Fredericksburg (an account of
wliicli you must have seen before tliis Time in tlie Pa-
pers) Las landed five tons of powder for Continental
use. Should I find that the Seat of War for this season is
to be ratlier in Carolina than here, I shall order what
you think proper of tlie five Tuns to be hastened to
you, at all events shall order two Tuns immediately.
As the three Companies of Col° Mercer's Battalion at
Alexandria are to Ije relieved by two companies of the
new raised men, the powder can l^e escorted by them
to this j^lace, and ordered to Halifax, where I hope it
will be received by a Guard and forwarded. Your
directions for a Gruard from that Place might be neces-
sary. The Committee of Safety knows of a Resolve of
Congress that 5000 blankets should be bought and sent
here, and some private Letters say that they are bought.
That's all we know of them. We have not linen suf-
ficient for our small army in this Colon}', I shall send
100^^ of bark with the powder. I shall write the
Congress as you direct. Doctor William Rickman is ap-
pointed Dh'ector and Chief Physician of the General
Hospital. He arrived yesterday. None of the row-
gallies yet fitted out, but some of them soon will.
Capt. Lilly's preparations have Ijeen much more tedious
than I expected, he says he will be able to make some
attempt next week. We have got some more armorers
and hope to have soon an addition to the number.
Our men took a small sloop endeavouring to get out
of the Narrows between the Island and our breast-
work. She having run a Ground, a few men in two
small Canoes boarded her, five men who were all her
crew endeavoured to escape by swimming^ — three of
which were shot from the shoar and sunk. Two hos^s-
heads of Brandy, I Ditto of Rum, some tools and ropes
with some ])rovisions were taken out for the use of
our Troops there, who were in need of the brandy and
rum, as the water is very bad. Deserters say that
Lord Dunmore is in dayly expectation of two Regi-
THE LEE PAPERS. 65
ments — a great mortality amoDg tlie Enemy, some of
both white aud black are discovered floating every
Day. Adieu Dear General, may Heaven prosper you.
My Compliments to General Howe and the Gentlemen
of your Family.
I am with great Respect
Your most obedt c<c very hble Sei'v*"
And"^ Lewis.
The Honble Charles Lee,
Major Genl <fc Com'" of the Cont^ Army in the
Southern District of North America.
Since I closed this letter I received a commission
for Hugh Mercer, Es(p appointing him Brig, Genl. he
is ordered to N. York immediately. This gives me
both pleasure & pain. A. Lewis.
General Orders.
12*^ June, 1776
Upon any alarm the different corps are to repair to
the following places of rendezvous.
The artillery regiment, and militia acting as artillery,
to their stations heretofore allotted them. The re-
mainder of the town militia to the State House. The
country militia, in that part of Lynch's pasture, nearest
the town.
The North-Carolina troops, in a distinct line on the
more remote part ; at least two hundred yards in the
rear, of the country militia.
The town-militia are to receive their orders from
Brigadier General Armstrong.
The country militia, from Brigadier General Howe.
The North-Carolina forces are to be considered as a
corps of reserve; and to be under the immediate com-
mand of General Lee.
\^OL. II.— 5
6Q THE I.EE PAPERS.
From Colotstel Gadsden.
Fort Johnson, 12 June, '76.
Sir,
I have the Honour to send to your ExcellT hj Col?
Pinckney a Return of Col° Huger's and 1113^ Eeg* l)esides
these Capt. Stones Company of James Island militia is
also under my Command consisting of about sixty men,
thirty of which are kept constantly on the Patrol Duty
watching the Enemy's motions at the different Land-
ings within seven Miles of us, the other thirty are
always in readiness to assist at the Western Battery.
We have 43 Cannon mounted at this Fort & the Bat-
tery, and as Col. Hugers men are all just rais'd, tfe thir-
ty-six of my own Regiment, new recruits, none of which
have been used to Cannon, they must be extremely
awkAvard thereat. Many of our Cannon are very heavy
& require a great numljer of men, & should we have
warm work, and the Enemy attempt to land we can
spare but a very small body to oppose them without
leaving many of the Cannon.
Our Car23enters & Labourers have deserted us man}'
Days since, which has put our works entirely to a stand,
were it not for this, in a very few days more I cou'd
have the Curtain of the upper Battery compleate, so
that the Platform might be ready to be laid the mo-
ment the plank arrived.
I beg leave to refer your Excelly. to Col? Pinckney
for any Thing relative to the Regim* I shall be always
ready with the greatest Pleasure to execute any of your
Excelly? Commands, & am
Yr. Excelly? most obed. hble Servant
CiiRis?^ Gadsden.
P. S. One of the Enemy's Tenders drove by the
Gale almost in reach of our Cannon, the Enemy thought
proper to abandon her, about half an hour ago, and one
of our Pilots has taken possession of her, and is bring-
THE LEE PAPERS. 67
ing lier up. I am in liopes this Storm will do tlie Ene-
my's Business yet.
'Tis now the 13"' The above is what I intended to
have sent to y^ Excelly. yesterday but the weather pre-
vented me. The two large ships of the Enemy that
were at Anchor off the Bar are drove from their an-
chors and not to be seen. A sloop also of theirs we
imagine must be drove ashore, as we see nothing of her.
To His Excellency Major Gen. Lee,
Commander in Chief of the Continental
and Colonial Forces acting in conjunction
from Virginia to South Carolina
To Colonel Moultrle.
Charlestown, June 13, 1776.
Sir:
As I am extremely solicitous for the honour and
safety of you and the troops under your command, and
as I am myself persuaded that your danger or safety
depends entirely on the strength or weakness of the
corj^s stationed on the other side of the creek ; I must
request that when the necessary works proposed are
finished, you will detach at least another hundred men
to strengthen this corj)S. I wish you would send me
an exact state of your ammunition, that you may be
supplied accordingly. His Excellency the President
comj^lains that several l3oats have been lost at your sta-
tion : As so much depends on these boats, I must de-
sire that you will put them under a sufficient guard :
Ol3lige the officer commanding the guard, to give a
receipt for their number, and be accountable for them.
I am, Sir, your most obedient Servant
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie.
68 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Colonel Horry.
Charlestown, June y^ 14*'', 1776.
Sir,
I consider tlie safety of the Fort and Garrison on Sul-
livan's Island as entirely depending on your Post, and on
tlie activity and vigilance of the Corps of Riflemen ex-
tending from the left of your post along that Creek that
separates Sullivan's Island from the Continent. This
Corps I would still further reinforce, but have it not
at present in my power ; they are, however, so formi-
dable a Body of men, that with your Spirit aud Indus-
try there is the greatest probability that they will be
able to check, if not totally defeat any attem23t of the
Enemy on that side.
As the old field where you are stationed (if I rec-
ollect right) affords no natural shelter for Riflemen, I
would recommend it to you to intersect it with a num-
ber of small trenches, at the distance of sixty or sev-
enty yards, one in the rear of the other. They should
be shallow, and the dirt thrown out towards the en-
emy, as otherways when possessed of, they would serve
the enemy for protection, as well as they had done for
yourselves. I desire that you Avill ])e very punctual in
making a Report when anything extraordinary hap-
pens, and constant in making returns of your own
corps. I am, sir, your most ob't humble servant,
Charles Lee
To Col. Horry,
Hattoral's Point.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Haddrell's Point, June 15, 1776.
Sir;
I have stationed Brigadier General Armstrong at
this place ; You are to make all your reports to him.
THE LEE PAPERS. 69
and in all respects to consider him as your commanding
officer.
I am, Sir, your most obedient Servant
Chaeles Lee
To Col. Moultrie
Geisteral Orders.
IStli June, 1776.
The Guards henceforward, are to be comj^osed of
the follomng- numbers :
One field-officer, 3 captains, 9 subalterns, and 200
rank and file, are to form the main guard, at the State-
House.
One captain, 3 subalterns, 4 Serjeants, and 72 rank
and file, at the Distillery to the left of the Magazine.
A captain, with the same number as the former, to
mount at Gadsden's wharf.
A suljaltern, 2 Serjeants, 2 corporals, and 2-4 privates
at the Mao;azine.
A subaltern, with the same number as the former,
at the point behind Gibbes' wharf.
One subaltern, 2 Serjeants, 2 corporals, 24 privates,
at the fleche whicli is thrown up a little to the right of
Grimball's Battery.
One subaltern, 2 Serjeants, 2 corporals, with the
same number of privates, in the rear of Grenville's
Bastion.
One subaltern, 2 Serjeants, 2 corporals, 24 privates,
at the Exchange.
One subaltern, 2 Serjeants, 2 corporals, with the same
number of privates, at Rose's wharf.
One captain, 3 subalterns, 4 Serjeants, 72 rank and
file at St. Philip's Church.
The two brigades, are to post the centries of the
different guards, in such a manner, that the whole may
furnish an equal proportion.
70 THE LEE PAPEES.
Every Corj3S de Guarde wliicli mounts on tlie quais,
is to throw up ileclies cannon-proof, at their respective
stations; after the model of that, to the right of Grim-
ball's Battery.
A field-officer of the day, is to l)e immediately
warned ; who is to be received by all the guards as well
as the centries, with rested arms: he should be fur-
nished with some mark of distinction — for instance, a
spontoon, or half pike, in his hand.
The guards are to turn out, and rest their arms
when his Excellency the President or the Major General
pass b)" ; but this only once a day to eacli.
The Brigadiers, are to be received by the guards,
with shouldered arms.
The Major General, wears a blue ribbon ; as a
badge of his rank, and by which he may be known.
The Brigadier Generals, a pink ribbon.
Rounds, are to go five times a night, and are to be
regulated in the following manner. The field-officer,
commanding the main guard, to go at eleven. The
field-officer of the day, to go at twelve. The three
captains of the main guard, at half past one, three, and
at daybreak. The countersign will l)e sent by tlie field-
officer of the day, to the field-officer commanding the
main guard at retreat beating : who, is to send it en-
closed, and sealed, to the officers of the different guards.
No person, either military or resident, of this town,
to pass the centries after nine, and tattoo beating ; with-
out giving the countersign.
16th June 1776.
Pateols, are to go, every hour of the night ; from
the beating of the tattoo, to the revellie.
Of the main guard, to consist of a serjeant and 12
men.
The patrol of each captain's guard, to consist of a
corporal and G men.
THE LEE PAPEES. 71
The patrol of a subaltern, of a lance corporal, and
3 men.
Tlie patrol of the main guard, to take Broad-street
and Old Church-street, from the State House, to the
two extremities and back, as likewise Queen and Tradd-
streets.
The patrol at Gadsden's wharf guard, is to pass to
and from the Governor's Bridge.
The patrol of the subaltern's guard at the Governor's
Bridge is to pass to and from Cannon's Battery — that
of Cannon's Battery, to and from Philip's Battery —
that of Philip's Battery, to and from Lyttleton's Bas-
tion — -that of Lyttleton's Bastion, to and from the guard
on the right of Wilkins' Battery — to and from Gibbes'
wharf ; and communications behind the barricadoes will
be opened for this purpose.
The patrol on Gibbes' wharf, to pass to and from
the Distillery.
The patrol of the Distillery, to pass to and from
Cummings' Battery, from thence to the new Carolina
Barracks.
The captain's guard, which will be posted some
where in Squirrel-street, is to take patrol up and down
George-street ; and from the New Barracks, to S*
Philip's Church, as likewise the whole of the Boundary-
street from one extremity to another.
These different patroles are to prevent disorders, and
any number of people assembling together; likewise,
to oblige all those who keep public-houses, to send
away their guests, at the hour prescribed by his Excel-
lency the President in Council.
To Pkesident Butledge.
Charlestown, June IQ^^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
I shou'd leave the Parole & Countersign entirely to
you, as I think it due to your rank & presidency in
72 THE LEE PAPERS.
yonr own Province; but as it is perhaps politic at
this juncture to hold up in all the Colonies the Conti-
nental Officers as oljjects of the greatest respect, We
will give them alternately if you have no objection to
it — the Adjutant General will repair to you for the
Parole this day before orderly time — if busyness calls
you out you can leave it seal'd up for him. He will
before retreat beating repair to you in like manner for
the Countersign — to morrow I shall give them — As the
admitting boats after sunset into all parts of the Town,
may be attended with much danger, I msh you wou'd
appoint one j)articular place where they alone can be
admitted.
I am Dear Sir, <fec
Charles Lee.
P. S. Don't you think, Sir, it wou'd be right to
order all the tipling Houses to be shut up before tat-too
beatino;.
To His Excellency John Rutledge,
President and Commander in Chief
of the Province of South Carolina.
From Colonel Patten.
Little River, 17'^ June 1776.
Sir,
On my march from Wilmington to Little River the
Express from Philadelphia came up with me on the
Road : I being some Distance ahead of the Troops, had
it not in my power to write, but desired him to acquaint
you what time I should ])e at the Boundary. Cap* Gray
of the S""'^ Regiment came with me within eight Miles
of the Boundary on his way to Charlestown, but left
the Regiment without acquainting me of his going of,
but I exj^ected he 'would have waited on your Excellency
THE LEE PAPERS. 73
to Lett you know of my arrival — have likewise Wrote
by the Post, but by receiving no orders from you
Imagine they have all fail'd : that now I send by
Express — agreeal^le to Gen^ Mores Orders have placed
a Subaltoons guard on the Bank to watch the motions
of the fleet, but have made no Discoveries. I have
nothing in particular to acquaint you off — Except forty
head of Cattle that was Drove from the Neighbourhood
of Lockwoods Folley the Day before I marched, through
their to the men of Warr : which that and many other
Reasons Convinces me that the most part of that
Neighbourhood are Torreys. I took a Prisoner there
that had been sent from on Board the Man of Warr, to
watch our motions, and delivered him to the Capt. of
the Militia to send to Wilmington, Vmt as soon as I was
gone was sett att Liberty — think it would not be amiss
to place a few Continental Troops their to keep them
in order. I have Reconnighted this ]:)lace as Well as I
could and find that their is an Inlett, Eight Miles to the
Southward of Lockwood's Folley called Shelott, that
their is Fourteen feet of Water over the Barr, and
Twelve feet over the Barr of Little Kiver — that any of
their small Vessells might come in and suplie the Whole
Fleet with fresh Provisions ; as the stocks of cattle is
Large their — Exceept their is a force to Bepell them.
Should be glad of Your Orders by the Bearer,
Am Your most hble Serv*
John Patten
General Orders.
Charles-town, June 19th, 1776.
As it now appears almost a certainty, (from the in-
telligence of some deserters,) that the enemy's intention
is to make an attack on the city ; and as the General is
confident, that the numbers and spirit of the garrison
will prevent their landing, it only remains to guard
74 THE LEE PAPERS.
against the injury which the city may receive from
their cannon.
The continental troops, provincials, and militia, are,
therefore, most earnestly conjured to work with no less
alacrity, than fight with courage. Courage alone will
not suffice in war : true soldiers and magnanimous
citizens must brandish the pick-axe and spade, as well
as the sword, in defence of their country ; one or two
days labour, at this critical juncture, may not only save
many worthy families from ruin, but many worthy in-
dividuals from loss of limbs and life. On this principle
the General does not, simply in his capacity of com-
manding officer, order, but entreat the whole garrison,
(those on the necessary duties excepted,) to exert them-
selves in forwarding the requisite works of i)rotection.
The colonels or commanding officers of the corps are
to review their men's arms this evening at roll calling ;
to take care they are in as good order as possible, and
that they are furnished with good flints. The officers
commanding the different guards are to do the same
with their respective guards.
For the future it must be observed, as an established
rule, that no artillery officer fires a single cannon Avith-
out joreviously acquainting the General.
To CoLoisTEL Gadsden.
Charlestown, June 19th, 1776.
Dear Sir,
As from the intelligence we have received from De-
serters, we have the strongest reason to believe that the
Tyrants Troops have not the least idea of attacking
your Fort- — but that their Scheme is in two Corps to
make an attempt on the Town at the same time on Point
Huteral or Fort Sullivan, and, as now your Western
Battery is given up, it appears that you have actually
more men than your Fort will contain — I must request
THE LEE PAPERS. 75
tliat you will immediately reinforce the Town (wliicli
is mucli too tliinly garrison'd) witli CoP Huge's Regi-
ment — if indeed yon wish to retain a subaltern and
twenty-five to man tlie three Guns of tlie Western Bat-
tery — I have no objection — I rely so much on your good
sense, calmness and discretion, that I flatter myself
when the Enemy pass your Fort not a single Gun will
be fired at too great a distance — not a single Gun, but
when you have the greatest j^i'obability of its being fired
^ with effect.
I am Dear Sir,
Your most Obed* Servant,
ChapwLes Lee.
Colonel Gadsden, Fort Johnson.
To Colonel Patten.
Charlestown, 19th June, 1776.
Sir,
It is extremely unfortunate that General Moore
shou'd not in consequeuce of my last Letters have or-
der'd you forward to this place — I must therefore en-
treat that you will march with all possible expedition
as it is of the last importance.
I am Sir,
Your Most Ob* Servant
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Patten, or Officer Commanding
the division of North Carolina Troops
at the Boundary House.
76 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Colonel Thompson.
Cliarlestown 21'* Jime, 1776.
Sir,
It is a certain trutli tliat tlie Enemy entertain a
most nnfortnnate apprehension of American Rifle Men
— it is eqnally certain that nothing can contribute to
diminish this apprehension so infallibly as a frequent
ineffectual fire — it is with some concern therefore that "
I am inform'd that your Men have been suffer'd to fire
at a most preposterous distance ; upon this principle, I
must entreat and insist that you consider it as a stand-
ing order that not a man under your Command is to
fire at a greater distance than an hundred and fifty
yards at the utmost- — ^in short that they never fire with-
out almost a moral certainty of hitting their object —
distant firing has a double bad effect, it encourages the
Enemy, and adds to the pernicious perswasion of the
American soldiei's — viz* that they are no match for their
Antagonists at close fighting — to speak plainly, it is al-
most a sure method of making 'em Cowards — once
more I must request that a stop be put to this childish,
vitious &, scandalous practice — I extend the rule to
those who have the care of the Field Pieces — four hun-
dred yards is the greatest distance they should be al-
lowed to fire at — a transo-ression of this rule will be
considered as the effect of flurry and Avant of courage.
Those who are accused of transgressing will be pro-
ceeded against as acting from these j^rinciples : I have,
Sir, the greatest opinion of your good sense and sj^irit
and flatter myself that you will not only issue ordei's of
restriction on this head, but that you will be attentive
that they are rigorously put in execution, and am Sir,
Your most obe* humble Servant
Charles Lee.
P. S. I am likewise informed that your men pass
without order or orders to Long Island — Is this wise ?
THE LEE PAPEES. 77
is it Soldier like ? is it to shew tlie Enemy wliere our
weakness is ? I confess I am astonisk'd at such enormi-
ties — I positively order, Sir, that an immediate check
be put to these al^ominations. I expect compliance, <fe
will not excuse such violation of discipline for the fu-
ture.
To Colonel Thompson,
at Sullivan's Island.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Charlestown, 21st June, 1776.
Sir,
Inclosed is a Letter for Colonel Thompson ; I send
it open that you may read it, for allowing for the dif-
ference of his circumstances as a Rifle Officer, the spirit
of the orders is to extend to the whole — no vaoue un-
certain firing either of Kifles, Muskets or Cannon is to
be permitted — Soldiei's running at random wherever
their folly directs is an absolute abomination not to be
tolerated — for Heaven's sake. Sir, as you are in a most
important Post- — a Post where you have an opportu-
nity of acquiring great honor — exert yourself — by ex-
erting yourself, I mean, when you issue any orders, suf-
fer 'em not to be trifled with — every body is well per-
swaded of your Spirit and zeal, but they accuse you of
being too easy in command — that is, I suppose too re-
laxed in Discipline— than which in your situation give
me leave to say, there cannot be a greater vice — let your
orders be as few as possible — but let 'em be punctually
obeyed. I wou'd not recommend teizing your Men &
Officers with superfluous duties or labor, but I expect
that you enforce the execution of whatever is necessary
for the honor and safety of your Garrison — shou'd any
misfortune happen which can be attriljuted to negli-
78 THE LEE PAPERS.
gence or inertness on tliis liead, the weight [of] censure
will scarcely fall less heavily upon you, than should it
arise from a deficiency of Courage — but as you are
known to possess sufficiently of this last attribute, your
Friends are only apprehensive on the other score. ^ You
will exTcuse the prolixity and didactick stile of this Let-
ter, as it arises not only from my anxiety for the public,
but in some measure from my concern for the reputa-
tion of a Gentleman of so respectable a Character as
Colonel Moultrie — but enough of this at present. Be-
fore you employ your Engineer in any work, satisfy
yourself well that he understands the principle of the
work he undertakes, and the mode of executing it — for
instance : does he understand what is the necessary de-
gree of talus for the Traverse in the Fort ? if I recom-
mend the construction of an advanced Fleche on the
right flank of your Fort to impede the Enemy's ap-
proaches, wall he comprehend it 'i if he does not, I will
send Mr. Byrd — I shall order some timber for this pur-
pose to be carried to you. I desire you will put a
commission'd officer (and a good officer) at the breach
to j^revent the monstrous disorders I comj^lain of.
I am Sir, with the greatest respect
Your most humble Servant,
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie,
Sullivan's Island.
To CoLoxEL Moultrie.
June 21st, 1776.
Sir:
I am extremely concerned to hear that the traverse
which I had ordered to be thrown up, and which is
really of the greatest importance, should be so illy ex-
ecuted as to threaten a speedy fall ; surely Mr. Be
Brahm, the Engineer, must be acquainted with the de
THE LEE PAPERS. 79
gree of talus necessary in all works — For God's sake
enjoin him to correct the evil before it is too late — At
any rate devise the means of preventing its ruin— I must
likewise express my concern when I am told that your
gunners are suffered to fire at the enemy when it is
almost impossible that their fire should have any effect.
I must desire you, Sir, that you must estal^lish it as an
eternal rule, that no piece of ordnance, great or small,
should be fired at a greater distance than four hundred
yards ; but all orders will be in vain unless you make
an example of the first who disregards your orders. Is
Bellamy with you ? Has he begun the second bridge ?
I hope you will keep him on the Island until he lias fin-
ished the work.
I am, Sir, your most obedient Servant
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie.
P. S. Those two field pieces at the very end of the
Point are so exposed that I desire you will draw them
off to a more secure distance from the enemy ; iu their
present situation, it appears to me, they may be carried
off whenever the enemy think proper.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Charlesto^vn, June 21'*^ 1776.
Sir:
I ho|)e you will excuse the style of my last let-
ter. I must once more repeat that it did not arise
from any diffidence in your judgment, zeal, or spirit;
but merely from an apprehension that your good nature
and easy temper might, in some measure, countei'act
those good qualities wliich you are universally kno\^m
to possess. As you seem sensible that it is necessary
to exert your powers, I do not, I cannot, wish this im-
portant post in better hands than yours : once more
80 THE LEE PAPERS.
therefore, excuse my manner of \vi'iting. I wisli M'
Bellamy liad (wlien he was desired to give in a list of
all he wanted) left nothing to ask for at this time.
M"" Cochran is now employed in finding out the planks
he requests ; you shall have it as soon as possible.
Captain Tuffts was ordered to put himself under the
command of General Armstrono;. I shall ^Yvite to the
• • • •
General to night, to order him to station him m such a
manner as to be of the greatest use to you, as likewise
to spare you all the necessary assistance. Tomorrow I
expect Muhlenburg's Regiment and I flatter myself that
we shall be able to devise some means of baffling the
enemy, should your post be really their object.
I am. Sir, mth the greatest respect.
Your most obedient humble Servant,
Charles Lee,
To Col Moultrie,
Fort Sullivan.
P. S. We have hoes and spades, but no helves to
them ; so General Armstrong must return those he
borrowed : We shall endeavour to replace them.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, June 22n(1, 177G.
Bear Sir,
As I confess, I never cou'd from the conversation I
have had with the different Gentlemen here, well
understand on what principle Sullivans Island was fii'st
taken possession of and fortify'd, or on what principle
it is to be maintain'd I shou'd l)e extremely ol)lig'd to
you if you will sometime this day convene the Gentle-
men of the Council, that I may be able to form an
opinion whether or no, it will l)e prudent to risk so
THE LEE PAPERS. 81
many men, and encounter so many difficulties in attempt
ing to support it.
I am Dear Sir, Yours
Chaeles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge,
President Sl Com'' in Chief of the
Province of South Carolina.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Charlestown [5 o'clock] 23'^'^ June, 1776.
Sir,
I have sent Capf" Cochran (a very active man) to
your Island to de\dse the means of establishing a second
communication with the Continent — Pritchard's Flat he
says is already at the Island — Muhlenburg's Regiment
will be here to night ; We shall be then very strong.
I will be down with you tomorrow with a Body of
Workmen <fe put you I hope in a state of great security
— Upon the whole I think you will be safe, if your
people do their duty — there can be nothing to fear to
night, I hope your Garrison will remain in spirits ; on
my part, I promise every attention.
I am Sir, [with the greatest truth]
Youi* most ob* Serv*
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie,
Sullivan's Island.
General Orders,
Fort Sullivan, June 24^^ 1776.
General Lee positively orders, that the screen be-
hind the aperture of the traverse be immediately begun
Vol. II.— 6
82 THE LEE PAPEES.
and finished with all possible expedition ; that a breast-
work of timljer, six feet high, be raised on the rampart,
so as to form a continuation of the traverse ; that a
l^anqnet be raised behind the traverse, so as to enable
the musquetry to fire over. The present work round
the near guard room to be considerably strengthened :
the parapet raised, and the ditch deeper and wider ; a
screen to be thrown u]) behind the entrance ; a facade
of fascines, or old timber, is necessary to keep up the
light sand of which the breast-work of this rear-guard
is composed.
To Colonel Moulteie.
Charlestown, June 25 1776.
Sie:
The gentleman that delivers you this letter is Baron
Massenbourg, one of the Continental Engineers. I de-
sire you will furnish him with the number of workmen,
and with every material he may require to carry on his
works.
I am, Sir, your most obedient, humble Servant,
CiiAELEs Lee.
To Col. Moultrie,
Sullivans Island.
To Colonel Moulteie.
[June 25, 1776]
Sie,
I have sent you the carpenter ; it is your fault if
he escapes again ; keep a guard over him. Send the
express boat back immediately.
Yours,
To Colonel Moultrie. Chaeles Lee.
P. S. Finish the bridge.
THE LEE PAPEES. 88
To Peesident Rutledge.
Cliarlestown, June 25'^ 1776.
Deae Sir,
I have just received a Letter from the Baron who
seems frighten'd out of his wits at the dangerousness
of the situation of our Troops on the Island where re-
treat is so 2:)recarious — ^however he is setting himself to
work to do the best he can — I have desired Colonel
Laurence to send immediately to the Island fifty men
for work- — I must entreat your Excellency to give order
that a sufficient number of the Palmeto logs necessaiy
for the completion of the Bridge, may ^vithout loss of
time be forwarded.
I am Sir, with the greatest Respect
Your most ob* hum: Servant
Charles Lee.
His Excellency John Rutledge.
Feom Alexandee White.
Winchester 27*^ June, 1776.
Sir,
Your favour of 10*^ Aj^ril did not reach me 'till
22"'^ Inst. I that day wrote you an Answer by one M""
Campbell, who was on his way to Williamsburg, and
who promised to give my letter a Conveyance if he did
not see you. I informed you that I saw no objection to
your paying oif the Incumbrances on your Land and
the future payments to M'" Hite whenever it is con-
venient for you to do so, except £400, which is to be
retained 'till the title to part of the Land is compleated.
I prejiared a Mortgage for securing to M"" Hite the
future payments agreeable to Contract, and offered it
to M'' Tho® Hite who would not accept it on account of
a recital which he supposed would prejudice the fiivo-
84 THE LEE PAPERS.
lous suit commenced against you, tliougli it was dra^^Ti
in common form before I liad the most distant expecta-
tion of such a suit ever being commenced. The Mort-
gage is a sterling Debt, the Agent a Resident of Mary-
land. I therefore presume Virginia Paper will not be
acceptable, and perhaps some difficulty may arise in
these times of Confusion respecting the rate of Ex-
change I settled it with M"^ Hite in V. C. at 25 p. c\
I should be happy to see the Important Subject of
the Independence of N. A. discussed in the perspicuous
and able manner you are capable of. I have troubled
you with some of my crude thoughts, to afford you an
opportunity when leisure will permit and inclination
lead you to explain my mistakes and correct my errors.
From the commencement of the present unhappy Dis-
pute I considered the shedding of blood (if that event
should take place) as the Era at which would termi-
nate the British Empire in America or the Colonies be
subjugated to the absolute Dominion of Parliament,
and when hostilities commenced my mind was only
airitated with tlie means of defendino; ourselves and
forming a Constitution which would secure substan-
tial Liberty to the Peo2:)le ; but when I found the Con-
gress entertained diiferent views, that they had again
petitioned the King for reconciliation, and declared to
their fellow subjects throughout the Empire that their
only end in taking up Arms was to procure a Redress
of Grievances, and secure their pro23erties and Consti-
tutional Rights, solemnly disclaiming every Idea of
establishing an Independent Empire, it gave a diiferent
turn to my thoughts. I reflected that our Ancestors
have fought many Battles and shed Torrents of Blood
in support of their Constitutional Rights, and what-
ever may have been the fate of Ai'bitrary Princes, the
Constitution was ever held sacred, the instance of
Charles's Reign only excepted. The Wliigs were then
obliged to join with the Tories in Restoring Royalty
in its Lustre, to get rid of a Phantom which the Inde-
pendents had raised under the name of Liberty. The
THE LEE PAPERS. 85
Hope of a Re-union witli our Brethren of G. Britain
and of the encreasing Grandeur and Prosperity of the
whole Empire to me, I confess, had something agree-
able in it. I therefore with eagerness investigated the
proposed Plan of operations to enable me to judge of
the probable Event, and I found, or thought I found,
the security of our Liberties in connection with Great
Britain almost certainly attaiual^le, at any rate more
practicable than the establishing an Independent State ;
for the following among other Reasons, that the People
of America were determinately united in support of
that measure ; that every insult and iujury from Ad-
ministration only tended to animate and cement. That
the greatest Trading Cities and most respectal)le char-
acters in England are our Friends. That even our
Enemies in Parliament dare not stand the attack on the
proper gr(3und, but in order to carry their point have
always insisted we were aiming at Independency.
That the belief of this, is the sole reason we have any
Enemies among the People of England, and though I
am of opinion the Governing Powers of Britain would
rather lose the Colonies totally, than yield one Iota of
their pretensions, the people will think very differ-
ently when convinced our views extend no further than
to the Security of those Rights which they themselves
hold essential to Liberty. That it would be impossible
for Government to carry on a war against the inclina-
tions, and so destructive to the Interests of the People,
as the present must obviously appear, when it is re-
membered, the Cause of our Contest is the assumed
Power of Parliament to tax the Colonists, to alter our
forms of government, to transport us to Britain for the
Trial of supposed offences, and to make laws regulating
our Internal Police. That the sword would even drop
fi'om the hand of a British Soldier, if he believed it
pointed against the Breast of a man contending for his
birthright. That an attempt to establish an Indepen-
dencv would unite Ensrland as one Man atrainst us,
and thouofh she is burdened with an enormous debt and
86 THE LEE PAPEES.
deprived of a most valuable branch of Commerce, slie
has still great Resources, and it is not easy to foresee
the consequences of the utmost exertions of her Powers.
Besides, it appears to be the Interest of Europe that
America should remain dependent. The power and
Importance of England (which by a defection of the
Colonies she would lose) is necessary in the Euro^^ean
System, Holland and Portugal I think owe their Po-
litical Existence to her. And even those states which
might wish to see her depressed were their Interests
confined to Europe, would dread greater evils from the
Estaljlishment of an Independent Empire in N. America,
the certain consequence of which would be, I a])pre-
hend, the loss of Mexico, S. America, and the West
India Islands to whomsoever be^onging. But it is a
necessary enquiry, on what terms can our differences
be adjusted which will secure us from future contests?
I answer, it is impossible. The nature of Human
Affairs is • such that no political system can be estal^-
lished which the folly of weak or ambition of wicked
men Avill not in time sul^vert. Let G. Britain relin-
quish her Claim of Internal Legislation and Taxation.
Let stated times be limited for the holding and dura-
tion of Assemblies, and Councilloi's dependent on the
Crown be deprived of Legislative Powers or hold their
places during Life, and let Supreme Judges be tip-
pointed in each Colony to hold their places during
good behaviour with certain and adequate salaries.
All this would be no real injury to England, the only
advantage she ever did, or ever can receive from
America is her Commerce, an Equitalde share of ^vhich
ought to be secured to her by a grand Commercial
System to be agreed on by the Legislatures of the two
Countries, and to remain unalteral)le except l)y mutual
consent. Such a 2)lan of accommodation I think, offers
as fair for the permanent security of Peace Wealth and
Liberty as any I have heard or can devise for the
government of America in an Independent State. I
take it for granted (as I have never heard it dis])uted)
THE LEE PAPERS. 87
that a Popular or Democratic Government must take
place, wliich in its most perfect state, I tliink mucli in-
ferior to the mixed Government of Britain, for I hold it
as a maxim, that wherever the Supreme Power is
vested in one man, or one body of Men, the liberty of
the sul:)ject is at best precarious. It ap23ears from His-
tory, that popular fury is as formidable, and often ex-
ercised with as much injustice as Royal Indignation.
Fi-equent Elections are no security in this case. The
spirit of the People always influences the Representa-
tive Body and if a man becomes luipopular, however
Innocent, his Ruin is inevitable. To you I need not
give instances. Neither is it possible in such a Consti-
tution to render the Judicial Powers totally indepen-
dent. The same Body of Men who have the appoint-
ment of the Judges, having also the power of removing
them, will carry popular prejudice even to the Seats of
Justice. In this Respect England has the advantage
of all other Nations. In cool dispassionate hours the
three Branches of the Legislature concur in enacting
Laws for the general Good of the Community. The
meanest subject cannot be punished unless he trans-
gresses these Laws. Neither can the Judges l^e dis-
placed for faithfully executing them, without the like
concurrence. This protects Individuals equally from
popular Violence and the Arljitrary Measures of Kings
and Courtiers. But is America ca23able of receiving a
Democratic Government? Have we that Industry,
Frugality, Economy, that Virtue which is necessary to
constitute it ? Laws and Constitutions must be adapted
to the manners of the People, they do not, they cannot
form them. Whenever the manners change the laws
change with them, or lose their Force. Is not N.
America too extensive for a popular Government ?
But I find the spirit of the times is against a union ;
we must then become a Confederacy of Republicks,
each having Supreme Powers within itself. Does not
this afEord a prospect of perpetual wars and Internal
Feuds 'till some one Colony or 23erhaps one man becomes
88 THE LEE PAPERS.
Master of the whole Continent? Recur to the His-
toric page, and point out the age and Country where
this under similar circumstances has not been the case.
The United Provinces being surrounded by more
powerful States materially distinguishes their situation
from that of these Colonies. A Congress or General
Council for regulating the affairs of the whole Con-
federacy will hardly be sufficient to maintain peace.
There was a general Council of the English Heptarchy
yet that Island was an uninterrupted scene of blood
and slaughter 'till united under one head. There is a
General Diet of the German Empire, yet every one
knows the Princes of the Empire submit to its decrees
just as far as suits their own purposes. Greece had
her Amphictyons, yet was not without intestine Wars.
The Country being called to Arms for the Express
Purpose of defending and securing her Constitutional
Lilierty, Is there not an Inconsistency in em23loying
those Arms to quite different Purposes, at least 'till it
is known whether the Original End be attainable ? and
surely the most sanguine could not expect that Point
so soon determined ; or that we could force England
to a Compliance with our Terms in the course of one
Campaign. An apology might well be expected for
this trouble, if I had a good one to offer, you should
have it. Some slight touches on the subject with sev-
eral Expressions of Regard interspersed through your
Letters of Business em])oldened me to take this Liljerty
and further to request an answer. I am one of those
who have ever wished and gloi'ied in the Honour and
Prosperity of the British Enquire, but if a separation
takes place, Interest, Inclination, Every Consideration
will induce me to take part with my Native Land, and
my best endeavours shall not be wanting to, render
the Americans a free and hapjiy People. Any Lights
which you may throw on the subject shall be faithfully
improved to that Purpose as far as in my narrow sphere
(and it is a very narrow one) permits. The Arguments
of Pamphleteers and Ne\vs Paper Scribblers on both
THE LEE PAPERS. 89
sides of tlie Question, have beeu so absurd, fallacious,
or at least superficial, that very little instruction or
pleasure could be derived from reading them. Heart-
ily wishing you success in every patriotic Exertion of
youi' abilities, I remain with great Esteem, Sir
Your very humble Servant
Alex® White.
Genl. Lee.
To GE]srEEAL Aemstrojn^g.
Charlestown 27th. June, 1776.
Dear General,
As the deputy Adjutant General had contrary to
my intentions tfe order j^ut a great part of Muhlenberg's
Regiment on duty, it is impossible to send 'em as I pro-
posed this morning— You must therefore prevail upon
the Remainder of Horry's Regiment to take this duty
upon them — for as I suppose the Bridge is finish' d, and
the risk apparently less — these pretty Gentlemen may
probaljly be prevail'd upon — as to giving a positive
order to men of such sensibility and delicacy — it wou'd
be harsh ct cruel — You must therefore, I say, endeav-
our to prevail upon them — if youi' endeavours do not
succeed, I shall try some other figure of Rhetorick.
I am Dear General, Yours
Charles Lee.
Brio-ad'" General Ai'mstrono-,
at Hadral's Point.
P.S. I wish you wou'd in my name thank Colonel
Thompson's Regiment for the cheerfulness and alacrity
with which they have done very hard duty.
90 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Colonel -Moulteie.
Cliarlestown, June 27*^ 1776.
Dear Sir : Could you not contrive this uiglit to
take up tlie enemy's buoys ? I have ordered General
Armstrouo; to send a hundred volunteers to ease Colonel
Thompson's Regiment of their heavy duty ; for I find
that a part of Colonel Horry's Regiment had most
magnanimously refused to take this duty on them.
We shall live I hope to thank them — I am in hopes
your l)ridge will be finished this night ; you can then
be reinforced at pleasure.
I am, dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colojstel Moultrie.
Charlestown June 27, 1770.
Dear Sir,
Some boats will possibly pass by you to-night from
town on a scouting expedition, before 12 o'clock at
night ; their orders are to intercept some of the enemj^'s
boats, and gain some important intelligence; I must
desire, therefore, that you enjoin the whole sentinels
on your Island not to challenge any boats passing from
town, or to fire upon them, which would defeat the
whole scheme ; on their return, if they meet with any
success, they shall have orders to greet you with two
cheers ; and if the wind or tide is as-ainst their return
to town, they will put into your post, and remain with
you this night. I hope your bridge is finished, as I in-
tend to reinforce you considerably.
Yours
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
THE LEE PAPERS. 91
To Colonel Moultrie.
June 28, 6 o'clock, a.m.
Dear Col.
I shall send you immediately a reinforcement. If
the bridge cannot be finished without taking down the
old take it down without ceremony, but it would
be better to have both.
Yours,
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Point Haddrell, June 28*^ 1776.
Dear Colonel :
If you should unfortunately expend your ammuni-
tion without beating off the enemy, or driving them
on ground, sj)ike your guns, and retreat with all the
order j^ossible ; but I know you will be careful not to
throw away your ammunition.
Charles Lee,
Major General.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Armstrong's June 28*^' 3 o'clock p.m.
Dear Col.
Major Byrd makes reports of your conduct which
does you infinite honour; they are, indeed, such as I
expected. I have sent for more ammunition for you;
92 THE LEE PAPERS.
and ordered a large corps of Riflemen to reinforce
Col. Thompson.
Yours,
Chaeles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Cliarlestown June 29*^ 9 o'clock.
Dear Colonel,
I shou'd liave thank'd you & your brave Garrison
this morning viva voce at the Fort — but am prevented
by a great deal of busyness — ^I do most heartily thank
you all and shall do you justice in my Letters to the
Congress — I have apply'd for some Rum for your Men.
They deserve eveiy comfort that can be afforded to
them — We have sent for more Powder- — inform me of
all your Wants.
I am Dear Colonel, Yours,
Charles Lee.
Colonel Moultrie, at Sullivan's Island.
I desire Colonel Thompson will send over as soon as
he can, a Return of all occurrences in his part of the
Island.
To THE President of the Convention or Virginia.
Charleston, June 29'^^ 1776.
Sir:—
I took the liberty of detaining your Express, M''
Page, concluding that something material must before
this have arrived : but as I imagine you are extremely
anxious for the fate of this important Capital, I think
it my duty to dispatch him with a very compendious,
THE LEE PAPERS. 93
or ratlier imperfect account of our present situation.
Yesterday about eleven o'clock the Enemy's Squadron,
consisting of one fifty, one forty, and six frigates came
to anchor before Fort Sullivan, and began one of the
most furious cannonades I ever heard or saw : their pro-
ject was apparently at the same time to land their troops
on the East end of the island ; twice they attempted it,
and twice were gallantly repulsed : the ships continued
tlieir fire over the fort till eleven at night. The be-
havior of the Garrison, both men and ofiacers, with Col-
onel Moultrie at their head, I confess astonished me ;
it was brave to the last degree. I had no idea tliat so
much coolness and intrepidity could be displayed hj a
collection of raw recruits, as 1 was witness of in this
garrison. Had we been better supplied with ammuni-
tion, it is most prol^able their Squadron would have
been utterly destroyed — however, they have no reason
to triumph ; one of their Frigates is now in flames, an-
othei" lost its bowsprit, the Commodore and a forty gun-
ship had their mizzens shot away, and are otherwise
much damaged — in short, they may be said in this their
first essay on South Carolina to have been worsted, but
presume they will make another attempt. Our loss is
ten killed, twenty two wounded, seven of whom have
lost their leg's or arms. The defences of the fort have
received no injury, only one gun dismounted. I shall
wi'ite when the affair is finished, a more accurate rela-
tion to your Convention and to the Congress ; in the
meantime I think it but justice to publish the merits
of Col. Moultrie and his brave Garrison. Col. Thomp-
son of the South Carolina Rangers acquitted himself
most nobly in repulsing the troops who attempted to
land at the other end of the Island. I know not which
Corps I have the greatest reason to be pleased with,
Muhlenberg's Virginians, or the North Carolina troops
— they are both equally alert, zealous and spirited. I
must now. Sir, entreat that you will forward to Wil-
mington as much powder as can possibly be spared
from your province, to supply the place of that which I
94 THE LEE PAPERS.
sliall draw from Nortli Carolina ; slioes, shirts, and blank-
ets are likewise absolutely necessary for tlie Nortli Caro-
linians, who are quite naked. I request, Sir, that you
will order these necessaries with the greatest expedi-
tion. You will excuse the shortness of my letter, as
you may easily conceive that I have a good deal of em-
ployment on my hands. I shall not write to the Con-
gress, till the operations of the enemy are brought to
something more like a decision. If you. Sir, think this
short relation of importance sufficient, you will, of
course, transmit it.
I am. Sir, with the greatest respect.
Your most obedient, huml^le Servant
Charles Lee.
To THE President of the Provincial Congress of
North Carolina.
Charlestown, June 29th, 1776.
Sir,
I have written a short account of our situation to
the Convention of Virginia, with directions to be open'd
for your perusal — I must entreat. Sir, that you will for-
ward to this place with the greatest expedition all the
powder you can sj)are, it will I hope be soon replaced
from Virginia.
I am Sir, with the greatest Resj)ect
Your most ob* hum: Servant
Charles Lee.
. To Benjamin Rush.
Charlestown, June y^ 29*^ 1776.
My Dear Rush,
I apprized you some time ago that you must not ex-
pect letters from me as often as I wish'd to write 'em
my inclination wou'd prompt me to persecute you every
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 95
Post I seize now a leisure moment. You ^vill excuse
tlie conciseness of the scroll — We had yesterday a very
severe party of Cannonade with the Tyrant's Mercena-
ries — They attacked with eight ships of War a very
imperfect and ill plan'd Fort on Sullivan's Island— and
were fairly repuls'd, I really believe with very great
loss — the Commodore's Ship and another Forty Gun,
suppos'd to be the Roe Buck, were Ijoth dismasted of
their mizens, another Frigate lost its Bowsprit — and
the Acteon was set on hre and this morning l^lew U]) —
They must have suffered greatly in men — Our People,
tho' quite raw Recruits behav'd like the decima Legio —
it was a severe tryal for any Troops. I have been in a
good deal of lire, but never in a hotter or more inces-
sant. We had only ten kill'd on the Spot — and twenty
two wounded, seven of whom lost their limbs — A Colo-
nel Moutrie commanded who has gain'd eternal credit.
I thought it necessary as I was not acquainted with the
merit of these Ijrave fellows to appear amongst 'em.
They were pleas'd with my visit but did not want en-
couragement if you are acquainted with Lewis Morris
the Delegate congratulate him in my name in having
such a son — amongst other becoming qualities He is a
full inch taller in the midst of a hot Cannonade than at
other times, tho' He is generally pretty upright. Uj^on
my soul He is a fine Boy, as is my other Aid-de-Camp
Byrd ; I l^elieve They ^\'ill go down to Tartarus for the
three-headed Doo- of Darkness if I order 'em. You are
not to think the affair I am speaking of is decisive — On
the contrary I expect an other and more serious attack —
I must not forget that their land Forces attempted at
the same time that the ships attack'd to land on tlie East
end of this Sullivan's Island, and were repuls'd twice
by a Colonell Thompson of the S. Carolina Rangers—
What their loss was I have not yet learnt. We have
fortify'd this extensive Town against a surprise at
least — Upon the whole I think it safe — I beg you will
give my love to Rol)ert Morris and that I will write to
him by the next Express — Communicate this letter to
96 THE LEE PAPERS.
liim aud to Colonel Lee as likewise to M"" Rutledge
from wliom I have not heard a word this age — What
poor mortals are these Maryland Council men ! I hope
the Congress will wa-ite a letter to the People of that
Province at large advising 'em to get rid of their damn'd
Government — Their aim is to continue feudal Lords to
a Tyrant. I am much pleas'd with your operations
against your sad Dogs of the Assembly.
Adieu, My Dr Rush /ac ut valeas et me ames.
C. Lee.
To D. Benjamin Rush,
Philadelphia.
To Get^eeal Gates.
Charlestown June y^ 29*^ 1776.
Mt Dr Gates —
I have just read that the General and your Excel-
lency are arrivVl at Philadelphia — my love and respects
to the General that I shall send an express to him in a
few days — with a minute account of our situation — and
the smites of a double repulse the Tyrant's mercenaries
have met with — their squadron has been roughly han-
dled — the Commodore and the Roebuck dismasted of
their mizens — one frigate lost its Bow^sprit and another
(the Acteon) blown up. Rush will give you a compen-
dious detail of it — our Troops (tho raw behav'd most
nobly) tlie fire was extremely hot and incessant. Their
Troops attempted to land twice and were twice repuls'd
by the S. Carolina Rangers. Our loss in the Fort was
ten kill'd, twenty two wounded seven of whom lost their
limbs, but They encouraged their Comrades after the loss
of their limbs — to stand to the cause of liberty. My
two young Aid de Camps Byrd and Morris stand fire
most nobly — Young Old Jenifer and little Nourse strut-
ted like Crows in a gutter — the fire was I assure you
very hot — I am nnich pleas'd with the Troo2:>s — men and
THE LEE PAPERS. 1)7
officers — and really believe 'em braver tlian the Enemy
— but I woii'd not be understood tliat this affair was
decisive — it was most probal)ly only the prelude to a
more serious one — the event of which the great God of
Battles only knows — I mean the truly great and univer-
sal God not the partial God of the Jews — inclos'd is a
return (I dare say not the most perfect) of our strength
— apropos — I cannot send it just now, for the Adjudant
General who is in love has forgot a whole liegt. You
shall have it in a few days. We have about five thou-
shand men — if I had a thoushand lio-ht Horse I could
protect these Colonies completely — urge the General to
urge it — I am tirVl of writing on the subject. Yours
my Dr Gates
C. Lee.
Feom Richard Henry Lee.
Williamsb^ 29'*^ June, 1776.
My dear Friend,
The desire of being here at the formation of our new
Government brought me from Philadel23hia the l^'''
of this month. I have been in this City a week where
I have had the pleasure to see our new plan of Gov-
ernment go on well. This day will put a finishino-
hand to it. 'Tis very much of the democratic kind,
altho' a Governor and second branch of legislation are
admitted, for the former is not permitted voice in Leg-
islation, he is in all things to be advised by his Privy
Council, and both are by joint ballot of both houses to
be chosen annually, altho' the Governor may be con-
tinued in Office 3 years, after which he is not eligible
for 4 years. Both the Houses of the Legislature are
chosen by the whole body of the people — Our former
House of Burgesses, now called the House of Delegates
to be chosen annually in the usual manner. The other
House, now called the House of Senators is to be 24
in numl^er and to be chosen from Districts into which
the Country is to be laid off. One fourth of this Body
Vol. II.— 7
98 THE LEE PAPERS.
go out annually l^y rotation, and tlie vacancy filled by
the District whence they came. The Judges and other
Great Ofhcers of State are to be chosen by Joint ballot
of Ijoth houses, and to hold their Offices during good
behaviour. These are the outlines of our political ma-
chine, which I hope is sufficiently guarded against the
Monster Tyranny. When I left Philadelphia the Mili-
tary arrangement stood thus- — For N. York 10,000 regu-
lar troops joined by 15,000 militia — For Canada 7,000
regulars joined by 6,000 militia and 2000 Indians, a
Flying Camp of 10,000 in the middle Colonies^ — ^11
Battalions in the eastern Colonies and 23 in the South-
ern. Gen. Wooster had so misconducted matters in
Canada, that with very little opposition our Troops
were oldiged to I'etreat to the mouth of Sorell, and a
Regiment posted at the Cedars, 12 miles above Mon-
treal w^as shamefully surrendered to a party of the En-
emy coming from Niagara. The letters by this post
from Phil*'' tell us that our affairs in that Country were
recovering fast, and that Gen. Thompson, with 2000
men was gone down to Dechambeau or Falls of Riche-
lieu, to dispossess 300 regular Troops there, and re-
cover that important post. I incline to think our
friend Genl. Gates will be sent to Canada as Chief
Commander, poor Thomas having died at Chamblee of
the small pox. We have already taken three trans-
j)orts with Highlanders — The 217 that have fallen to
our share are distributed thro' this Colony, a few in
each County, and permitted to hire themselves out to
labour, thus to become the Citizens of America instead
of its enemies. Great distress prevails in the British
West Indies, and the French preparations in that part
of the World, formidable. The news of Phil'' when I
came away was that the Court of France had stopt the
Hessians Sl" from coming here. T have not the least
doubt but that Inde])endence will, in a few days, be
publicly announced l)y the General Congress. All re-
straining instructions are now j'emoved except from
Maryland, and there, the people A\ere u]^, and instruc-
THE LEE PAPERS. 99
tions sending from all parts to tlieir Convention, wliicli
met 10 days ago, expressly directing to rescind tlieir
instructions and pursue a different line of political con-
duct. I incline to tliink therefore that Independence
will carry it nem. con. and Foreign Alliance immedi-
ately sought. The business of Confederation will also
then be set on foot.
I shall return to Chantilly in a few days and remain
there until the last of August, when I go to Philadel-
phia. It will give me a singular pleasure to hear from
you when your leisure will permit, because there is
nothing I more sincerely wish than to know that you
are happy and successful.
Remember me to M'' Pj-esident Rutledge, and ^ tell
my friend Gen. Gadsden, that I remember him with
much affection.
Farewell my dear friend
RicHAED Henry Lee.
Col° Harrison and M" Braxton are left out of our
delegation to Congress, the other 5 continued — This
Convention voted 6 Troops of Horse.
Major General Lee,
Commander of the Continental Armies in the South-
ern Department, at Charleston, South Carolina.
Fragment — to Richard Henry Lee.
[Charlestown, July 1776.]
* * '^ misconduct from old Wooster. I think you
ought to send your plate into Canada, for if W. lose
that we lose everything. If my scheme of raising cav-
alry is found censurable by the Congress, I do not know
what can pass uncensured. It was the most oeconomical
plan that can be devised ; Init it was said that I should
100 THE LEE PAPERS.
have previously laid it before tliem — As [uo time] was
to be loss'd, not a single minute, and as 1 "vs^as assured
by divers members of the Convention, that if the Con-
gress did not thus — to be at the expense of Forage —
the Province wou'd — it was impossible, at least it was
dang;erous to wait the result of the resolves of the Con-
gress on this head. Do you know, that we have been
near losing this Province from the want of cavalry?
We must have a large body. I request as I have not
time you will justify me to Congress on this subject —
you shall * * *
To Geisteral Washington.
Charlestown, 1 July, 1776.
Mr Dear General,
I have the happiness to congratulate you on a very
signal success (if I may not call it a victory), which we
have gained over the mercenary instruments of the
British tyrant. I shall not trouble you with a detail of
their manoeuvres or delays, but defer it to another time,
when I have more leisure to ^vrite, and you to attend.
Let it suffice, that having lost an opportimity (such as
I hope will never again present itself) of taking the
town, which, on my arrival, was utterly defenceless, the
Commodore thought pi'oper, on Friday last, Avith his-
whole squadron, consisting of two fifties, six frigates,
and a bomb (the rates of which you will see in the in-
closed list), to attack our fort on Sullivan's Island.
They dropj^ed their anchors aljout eleven in the
forenoon, at the distance of three or four yards before
the front battery. I was myself, at tliis time, in a boat,
endeavoui'ing to make the Island ; but the \\ ind and
tide being violently against us, drove us on the main.
They immediately commenced the most furious fire I
ever heard or sa^v. I confess I Avas in pain, from the
little confidence I reposed in our troops ; the officers be-
ing all boys, and the men raw recruits. What aug
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 101
ineiited my anxiety was, tliat we liad no bridge finished
for retreat, or communication ; and the creek, or cove,
which separates it from the continent, is near a mile
wide. I had received, likewise, intelligence that their
land troops intended at the same time to land and as-
sault. I never in my life felt myself so nneasy ; and what
added to my uneasiness was, that I knew our stock of
ammunition was miseral^ly low. I had once thoughts of
ordering the Commanding officer to spike his guns, and
when his ammunition was spent to retreat with as
little loss as possil^le. However, I thought j^i-opei- pre-
viously to send to to^^ii for a fresh supply, if it could
possibly be procured, and ordered my Aid-de-Camp Mr.
Byrd, (who is a lad of magnanimous courage) to pass
over in a small canoe, and report the state of the spirit
of the garrison. If it had ])een low, I should have
abandoned all thoughts of defence. His rej)ort was
flattering. I then determined to maintain the post at
all risks, and passed the creek or cove, in a small boat,
in order to animate the garrison in propria i:)erRond /
but I found they had no occasion for such encourage-
ment.
They were pleased with my visit, and assured me
they never would abandon the post but with their lives.
The cool courage they displayed astonished and enrap-
tured me, for I do assure you, my dear General, I never
experienced a hotter fire. Twelve full hours it was con-
tinued without intermission. The noljle fello^^'s, who
were mortally wounded, conjured their brethren never
to abandon the standard of liberty. Those who lost
their limbs deserted not their posts. Upon tlie whole
they acted like Romans in the third century. Ho^vever,
our works were so good and solid, that we lost but few ;
only ten killed on the spot, and twenty-two wounded,
seven of whom lost their legs or arms. The loss of the
enemy as you will perceive by the enclosed list was very
li-reat. As I send a detail to the Couo-ress, I shall not
troul)le you with a duplicate ; but, before I finish, you
must suffer me to recommend to your esteem, friendship,
102 THE LEE PAPEE3.
and patronage my (tliougli young) Aids-de-Camp, Byrd
and Morris, wliose good sense, integrity, activity, and
valor, promise to tlieir country a most fruitful croj) of
essential services. Mr. Jenifer, of Maryland, a gentle-
man of fortune, and not of the age wlien the blood of
men flows heroically, has shown not less spirit than these
youngsters. I may venture to recommend in these high
terms, because the trial was severe.
Colonel Moultrie, who commanded the garrison, de-
serves the highest honors. The manifest intention of the
enemy was to land, at the same time the ships began to
fire, their whole regulars on tlie east end of the Island.
Twice they attempted it, and twice were re]3ulsed by a
Colonel Thompson, of the South Carolina Kangers, in
conjunction with a body of North Carolina regulars.
Upon the whole, the South and North Carolina troops
and Virginia Eifle Ijattalion we have here, are admir-
able soldiers. The enemy is now returned to their old
station on this side the bar. What their intention is, I
cannot divine. One of the five deserters, who came
over to us this day, is the most intelligent fellow I ever
met with. The accounts of their 2;)articular loss and
situation are his, and I think they may be depended
upon.
For God's sake, my dear General, urge the Congress
to furnish me with a thousand cavalry. With a thou-
sand cavalry I could insure the safety of these South-
ern Pi'ovinces ; and without cavalry, I can ans^ver for
nothing. I proposed a scheme in Virginia for raising a
body almost without any expense. The scheme -was
relished by the gentlemen of Virginia, but I am told
the project was censured by some members of the Con-
gress on the princij)le that a military servant should
not take the liljerty to })ropose any thing. This opinion
I sincerely suljscribe to, when our distance from the
sovereign is so small, and the danger so remote, as to
admit of i^roposing, deliberating, resolving, and approv-
ing ; but when a General is at a vast distance, and the
enemy close to him, I humbly conceive that it is his
THE LEE PAPERS. 103
duty to propose and adopt anything, witliout other
authority than the pu]:)lic safety. From want of this
species of troops, we had inf allil )ly h^st this Capital, but
the dihatoriness and stupidity of tlie enemy saved us.
I this instant learn that the Commodore is fixing
buoys on the bar, which indicates an intention of quit-
ting the place. It is j^rol^able that they will bend their
course to Hampton, or Chesapeake Bay.
I am extremely hapjiy, dear General, that you are
at Philadelphia, for their counsels sometimes lack a
little military electricity.
I have ordered the Adjutant General to send you a
return ; I mean only a return of the strength of this
place. I suppose it will be imperfect, for it is an Her-
culean labor, to a South Carolina officer, to make any
detail. God bless you, my dear General, and crown
you with success, as I am.
Most entirely and affectionately. Yours,
Charles Lee.
P. S. I am made quite happy by the resolution of
Congress to keep Canada. Had it been relinquished,
all would have been lost.
Memorandum by Geisteral Lee.
When a Brido;e of Communication between Fort
Sullivan and the Main is constructed it is absolutely
necessary for its protection that two redoubts shou'd
be thrown up — on or near the spots determin'd by
General Lee and Baron Massenback, the Engineer —
these redoubts will likewise answer the essential pur-
pose of preventing the Enemy's landing betwixt the
fort and the Point of the Island corresponding with
Haderal's Point — A orood strons; Redoubt shou'd be
likewise constructed on Point Haderel, as an open
Battery is always subject to be seiz'd by a light Party
104 THE LEE PAPERS.
of the Enemy and turn'd against us — As it appears
to me extremely practical)le for the Enemy to land on
the strand betwixt the East Point of the Island and
the Fort and make their approaches on that side I
shou'd think it prudent to throw up a chain of redoubts
at proper distances on the natural ridge of Sand-hill.
They shou'd be so constructed that the most distant be
cannonaded by the next that by the Third and the
nearest to the Fort by the Guns of the Fort. As it is
impossible from the nature of the ground on Sullivan's
Island to surround the Post by any sort of a Bitch
some other methods must be devised of seeming it
against an Escalade — 1 strong deal well form'd aljl^atis
wou'd in my opinion best answer the purpose — but
this abbatis must be so sunk as not to be expos'd to
be destroy'd by Cannon — but as a thorough know-
ledge of all the avenues, creeks and landing Places
which lead to Point Haderel, are of the last import-
ance — it is to be hoped that Colonel Gadsden will re-
commend it to his officers to make themselves masters
of it — as also to reconnoitre all the neighbouring Islands
— that on the supposition the Enemy shou'd again
lodge themselves in any of 'em, We may know ho^sv
to attack 'em with advantage.
It is almost suj^erlluous to mention the necessity of
an of Communication betwixt the Fort and
Bridge or a Tete de Pont on the Hederel Side, and of a
strong redoubt at the as these works must
apj)ear to every man indispensably necessary, \tlie fol-
lowing is not ill Lee's aidogra])lh\ but above all the
necessity of a strong Kedoubt at the advanced Guard
is evident.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Charlestown, July r* 177G.
Dear Colonel,
IIuo;er's Reo:iment have offer'd themselves \o work
at your Fort. I believe a Corps of Blacks wou'd have
THE LEE PAPERS. 105
answerVl better, 1nit the President <fc Vice President
tliink otlier^vise. You must desire tlie Baron to throw
up the redoubt I order'd near or on the beach to pre-
vent their landing — the Carpenters will I hope soon
finish the Gate. I have applied for six horses and
hope I shall procure 'em for you. Five deserters are
just arrived here from the Ships of War; inclosed I
send you a list of the murders your Garrison has no\^
to answer for, but I hoj^e it will sit light on their con-
sciences.
I am Sir,
Your most ob* hum: Servant
Chaeles Lee.
Colonel Moultrie,
at Sullivan's Island.
P. S. I must request that your Garrison may be
kept more vigilant than ever, and that Colonel Thomp-
son and his Corps do not relax, for it is almost pro-
verbial in War, that we are never in so great danger,
as when success makes us confidently secure — let the
bridge be finished without delay.
To President Rutledge.
Charleston July I''* 1776.
Dear Sir,
It is not impossilde that the late repulse of the
Enem}^ maj be fatal to us. We seem now all sunk
into a most secure and comfortable sleep — ISI^ot a mortal
of any kind, black or white at work — much is to be
done for the security of the Town and the Island of Sul-
livan — in the Town, the Barricades shou'd all be con-
siderably highten'd and thicken' d — the parapet which
encircles the whole shou'd likewise be strengthen'd
and rais'd — I wish your Excellency wou'd give order
that a sufiicient number of Men shall be collected for
106 THE LEE PAPERS.
these necessary works, — I am afraid Huger's Regiment
will not answer tlie purpose in Sullivan's Island half so
well as a Corps of Blacks, Ijesides will it not unhinge
the whole system of our j^resent duties ? As I intend
to write to the Congress tomorrow, it will be necessary
I shou'd have ready an Exj^ress.
I am D'' Sir, &,""
CiiAELEs Lee.
From Archibald Bullock, President of Georgia.
Savannah July 2M77G
Sir,
As the Gentlemen that wei'e deputed to wait u23on
you, in order to confer on the best Measures for the de-
fence of this Province are not returned, I have sent
to his Excellency the President a Coj)y of a Letter, I
have just received from Lieut. Colonel M'^Intosh — I
have desired he would comnmnicate the Contents to
you — I have not the least douljt of your jjerfect Knowl-
edge of the whole scheme of ministerial operations
against the Continent and that you are well informed
of our helpless situation — The Importance of this
Colony to the American cause is very great & there-
fore I'm persuaded w^e shall claim 2')art of your atten-
tion — Your presence liere would give a most hap])}' &
favorable Comj^lexion to our affairs — Tlie Post-Boy is
waiting & I can only wish that the Lord of Hosts, the
God of Armies may be your guide ct protection.
I am, Sir, respectfully youi*
Most obedient & very liumb. Serv*
Arcii° Bollock.
His Excellency Gen^ Lee,
at Charleston.
THE LEE PAPEES. 107
To THE PkESLDENT of C02fGRESS.
Cliarlestown, July 2iicl, 1776.
SiK,
I slionVl liave done myself tlie honor sooner of in-
forming the Congress of the attack made by the
Enemy's Squadron on Sullivan's Island and their
repulse — but conjectnr'd that by waiting a day or two
I might probably be furnished with the means of
sending a more minute, full, and satisfactory account —
my conjecture was right, for yesterday five seamen
made their escape, one of whom is a more intelligent
Fellow than is commonly found amongst men of his level
■ — inclosed is a copy of their Narrative, some parts of it
are perhaps too whimsical <fc trivial to merit the
attention of Congress, l>ut I think it my duty to present
it as it is without addino- or curtailino- a circumstance —
I think. Sir, I may venture to congratulate the Congress
on the event; not only the advantages must be con-
siderable, but the affair reflects no small credit on the
American Arms.
On Fryday about eleven o'clock, the Commodore
with his whole squadron consisting of two line of battle
ships and six Frigates (the rates of Avhich are mark'd
in the enclosed narrative) anchor'd at less than half
musket shot from the Fort, and commenced one of the
most fui'ious and incessant fires I ever saw or heard —
it was manifestly their plan to land at the same time
their whole res-ulars at the east end of the Island and
of course invest the Fort by Land and Sea— as the
Garrison was composed entirely of raw Troops l^oth
Men cfe Officers, as I knew theii* ammunition was short,
and as the Bridge by which we cou'd reinforce or call
off the Troops from the Island was unfinished you may
easily conceive my anxiety — it was so great that I was
in suspense whether I should evacuate it or not — fortu-
nately while I was in this State of Suspense some
ammunition arriv'd from the Town, and my Aid de
108 THE LEE PAPEES.
Camp jVP Byrd returning from the Islai
tering report of tlie (larrison's spirit, I
and with a flat-
determin'd to
support it at all hazards — On this principle I thought
it my duty to cross over to the Island to encourage the
Garrison by my j^resence, Init I might have saved
myself that trouble, for I found on my arrival they had
no occasion for any sort of encouragement ; I found 'em
determin'd and cool to the last degree, their behaviour
wou'd in fact have done honor to the oldest Troops —
I l)eg leave. Sir, therefore to recommend in the strongest
terms to the Congress the Commanding Officer Colonel
Moutrie and his whole Garrison as brave soldiers and
excellent citizens — nor must I omit at the same time
mentioning Colonel Thompson w^ho with the South
Carolina Rangers and a detachment of the North
Carolina Regulars repulsed the Enemy in two several
attempts to make a lodgment at the other extremity of
the Island.
Our loss considering the heat and duration of the
fire was inconsiderable, we had only ten men killed on
the spot and twenty two wounded, seven of whom lost
their limbs, Imt with their limbs they did not lose their
spirits for they enthusiastically encouraged their Com-
rades never to abandon the standard of Liberty and
their Country — this I do assure you, Sir, is not in the
stile of Gasconading Romance usual after every suc-
cessful action, but literally fact; I with pleasure men-'
tion the circumstance as it augurs well to the cause of
freedom^ — At eleven the fire ceas'd, having continued
just twelve hours Avithout the least intermission. AVhat
the Enemy's intentions are now, it is impossible to di-
vine. I am inclin'd to think they will (if they can
repass the Barr) bend their course to Cheasepeack or
Hampton Bay, j^erhaps shame <fe rage may prompt their
land Forces to some attempt before their Depai'ture ;
on my part I shall spare no pains to discover their
intentions and l)afiie their schemes.
As Georgia is a district of the Comma:id with which
you have honor'd me, I thought it 2">riident to request
THE LEE PAPEKS. 109
some of tlieir members to a conference witli the presi-
dent of tliis province and myself — They accepted the
Invitation and gave us great satisfaction from their
intellio-ence and o-ood sense — inclosed is the substance
of their deliberation.
The Province is certainly of the last importance to
the common cause, and the mode of protecting it point-
ed out by these Gentlemen, is in my opinion in all its
parts wise and necessary. They had conceived a notion
that I had powers to augment their establishment. I
assured 'em I had no such powers, but both Mr. Rutledge
and, myself gave it as our opinion that any expenses
manifestly beyond their faculties whicli they might
incurr in the common cause, wou'd be repaid by the
Congress, and in this perswasion we ventured to encour-
age them to augment their Cavalry without loss of time
and make the proposed present of Cattle to the In-
dians^Indeed, Sir, without a strong Corps of cavalry
I do not see how it is possible to protect these Southern
Colonies, and with one thousand good cavalry, I think
I cou'd ensure their protection — from the want of this
species of Troops Charlestown & its dependencies had
certainly been lost if the Enemy had acted with the
vigor and exj)edition we had reason to expect, but a
most unaccountable langour and inertness on their j^arts
have saved us — if the scheme I proposed in Virginia
had been approved and adopted it wou'd have been not
only a security but considerable economy — the forage
was to have been the only expense — now I am upon
the subject, I cannot help mentioning that I have been
inform'd that the j)roject has been considered by some
Gentlemen as a sort of presumption in me in arrogating
such a power but I fancy the affair was not properly
understood ; I saw the immediate necessity of such a
corps — I knew they cou'd be rais'd immediately by
these means, and at the same time I was given to under-
stand by several Gentlemen of the Virginian Convention,
that shou'd the Continental Congress disapprove of the
expense (trifling as it was) there was little doubt of
110 THE LEE PAPEES.
their Convention defraying it — but in fact, Sir, tlie
measure seeni'd necessary for tlie Salvation of tlie Pro-
vinces ; and not a day was to be lost, wliicli I hope will
fully justify my Conduct, and I must beg leave to
re2:)eat my assertion that without Cavalry these Pro-
vinces cannot easily be defended. I wish some means
cou'd be devised of reducing East Florida to an Ame-
rican Province — had I force sufficient, I should, with
your permission, certainly attempt it — the advantages
must be o-reat and manifold.
The augmentation of the Georgian Cavalry I sin-
cerely hope may be aj^proved of l^y the Congress — in-
clos'd is the establishment and pay j^roposed for 'em —
I think the terms not high.
I shall Sir, conclude with expressirg the high satis-
faction I have received from the zeal, activity and
public spirit of the Gentlemen and Inhaljitants of this
City and Province, from the President cfe Council down
to the lowest order of the People, and with assuring
you that I have not in my military capacity met witn
the least obstruction or difficulty, but that we have all
worked in concert and harmony for the common good.
I will earnestly request you will pay my respects to the
Congress, and be perswaded Sir, that I am most entirely
and devotedly
Your most Obedient Servant
Chaeles Lee.
To The Hon=^ John Hancock,
President of the Continental Congress.
The Georgia Troopers have according to the estab-
lishment of their Congress fifty Shillings sterling ^
man, rations for themselves, l)ut find arms, horses, and
forage — the Captain's pay is -Ten Pounds sterling ^
month — the Lieutenants Six pounds — the Quarter Mas-
ter four pounds.
P. S. Lord Dunmore has with him I believe at
present only one ship of War — if any part of the Con-
THE LEE PAPERS. Ill
tinental Fleet shoii'd happen to visit Hampton Bay at
tliis juncture, it would defeat the -whole scheme of the
Enemy's operations at least for this Campaign — but it
is impossible to say how long his Lordship ]nay remain
in this weak condition.
Naeeative, etc.
\Iiiclosed in the foregoing letter.']
Narrative, by Thomas Burnitt, of Col. Davidson's
Massachusetts Regiment, Daniel Hawkins of Bos-
ton, Robert Scott and Edmund Alston of New
Hampshire, and James Scott of Virginia, deserters
from the fleet which attacked and were beaten off
by the Fort at Sullivan's Island, on Friday, the
28th [June], 1776. They are all Americans, and
had been taken by the enemy at sea : Burnitt,
Hawkins, and Scott in the Sloop Sally, Hawkins
and Alston in the Brigantine Friendship.
The Bristol of 50 guns, commanded by Sir Peter
Parker, greatly damaged in her hull, large knees and
timbers shot throusch and smashed : — if the water had
• • •
not been very smooth, it would have been imj)ossible to
have kept her fi'om sinking ; all the carpenters in the
fleet have been called to her assistance.
Mizen mast shot away, main mast badly wounded
by 3 several shots, foremast by 2, rigging sails and
yards much damaged.
The Captain of the Commodore lost his left arm
above the elbow; he was sent yesterday (30th June) to
England in a brig. The Commodore's breeches torn
off — his back side laid bare, his thigh and knee
wounded; he walks only when supported by two men.
4J: men killed, and 30 wounded, among whom were
112 THE LEE PAPERS.
many Midshipmen, and inferior Officers ; 20 of the
wounded dead since the action — talked in the fleet that
the two large ships would go over the Bar again, and
proceed to English harbour in Antigua to be repaired.
The Bristol, when lightened as much as possible, draws
18 feet 7 inches water.
Ex]3eriment of 50 guns on 2 decks, all 12 pounders;
a slighter built vessel than the Bristol exceedingly
damaged in her hull — several ports beat in, and her
mizzeu mast hurt, but uncertain of particulars. 57
killed, of whom the Captain was one, 30 wounded,
several of whom since died ; draws when lightened 1 7
feet water ; the general opinion that neither of these
large ships will go safely over the Bar again.
Solbay 28 guns, 2 men killed, and 4 wounded ;
D' Active, 28 guns, Lieutenant killed, and 4 wounded ;
Acteon, 28 guns, Sjjhynx, 20 guns, Syren, 28 guns, all
got aground, the first in coming up, the two latter in
running away ; the Sphynx cut away her bowsprit, the
Syren got off, Acteon (by the assistance of 20 English
seamen) remained fast, burnt and blown up by her own
people (^vhilst she was on fire, Mr. Milligan, one of our
[Carolina] Marine Officers, and a party of men boarded
her, brought off her colors, the ship's bill, and as many
sails and stores as three boats could contain.)
The Thunderbomb lay at a considerable distance,
throwing shells at the fort, and by overcharging had
shattered her beds, and damaged the shij) so much, as
to render it necessary for her to go into dock before she
can act again. The Friendship, a hired armed vessel
of 26 guns of various sizes, covered the Bomb, as did
the Syren, Av^ho also fired briskly at the Fort Briocket
[ricochet] shots ; the whole fleet badly manned and
sickly, j^articularly the Syren's men at two-thirds short
allowance of provisions and water ; they have had no
fresh meat since their arrival, the V^ of June.
Lord Wm. Campbell had been very anxious for the
attack, and proj^osed taking all the forts with only the
Syren and Solbay. Lord Corn^vallis has the chief com-
THE LEE PAPEES. 113
mand of the laud force. He aud Geu. Clinton are both
on shore with the trooj)S at Long Island, His Lord-
ship had sometime ago urged Sir Peter Parker to attack
on the seaside, otherwise he would march up, attack,
and take the Fort, and complain of Sir Peter's tardiness.
The Commander replied : Cornwallis might march his
troops, when he pleased, but the fleet required a fair
wind ; the first that happened he would proceed against
the Fort. The o-eneral at that time believed we had no
O
trooj^s out of garrison, but he was soon better informed,,
being since repulsed and drove back with loss. He re-
mained quiet, and left the Commodore to enjoy the
glory of being defeated alone. This must be a mis-
take, from Lord Cornwallis having the command when
the fleet left Ii-eland.
A Negro Pilot [who is exceedingly caressed, was
on board the Commodore and] was put down with the
Doctor out of danger ; — when they sailed from Ireland
the number of men 4000 — 1 1 transports parted from
them had not been heard of since — which with deser-
tions reduced them to 1500 or 2000 at most. They
began to steal off between 9 and 10 of the clock, made
no noise, nor waited to heave up, and not slipt cable.
The Commodore has only one anchor and cable left. 2
o'clock on Friday the Fort, ^v-aiting for a supply of
powder — the men of wars men mistaking the unavoid-
able delay for surrender, cried " they have done fight-
ing." " By Grod," says others, " we are glad of it ; for
we never had such a dj'ubbin«: in our lives. We had
been told the Yankees would not stand two fires, but
we never saw better fellows." — All the common men
in the fleet spoke loudly in praise of the garrison,
brave, fine fellows ; the men in general very desu'ous
of getting on shore to join the Americans.*
YoL. II.— 8
114 THE LEE PAPERS.
COISTEEEENCE WITH THE GeORGIA DEPUTIES.
[Inclosed in tlie preceding Letter to Congress?^
The Deputies sent from Georgia l)y Desire of His
Excellency General Lee to confer with liim upon the
State of that Colony in order to devise the best Method
of putting it in a proper Posture of Defence beg leave
to re2)resent, That from the weak and defenceless situa-
tion of the Colony, surrounded as it is with Enemies,
It stands in immediate need of Assistance from the
General Congress. And when they consider that how-
ever small the Colony may be of itself in a comparative
Point of View, yet that from the great Plenty of Pro-
vision — numerous stocks of Cattle — excellent Inlets —
Harbours and Rivers (perhaps equal to any upon the
Continent) with which the Colony abounds — and
above all the firm attachment of its Inhabitants to the
American cause — they are led to trust that the Protec-
tion and Security of that Colony will be held an oljject
of considerable Im23ortance.
No one of the thirteen United Colonies is so weak
within or so much exposed from without. To the East
the In]ial)itants suffer the Ravages of British Cruizers
— their Negroes are daily inveigled &l carried away
from their Plantations. British Fleets may be sup-
plied with Beef from several large Islands well stocked
with cattle which line their Coast, and round Avliich
large ships may sail — To the South they have the Pro-
vince of East Florida — the Inhabitants and Soldiery
in which must of Necessity make Inroads upon Georgia
for the Article of Provision with which they have
heretofore been chiefly supplied. Georgia here stands
as a Barrier to South Carolina — and effectually secures
that Province against the like Depredations — the South-
ern Parts of Georgia contain vast stocks of Cattle and
our most valual)le Pice Plantations lie that way, by
some late computations there are said to l^e upwards
THE LEE PAPEKS. 115
of 30,000 of Head of black Cattle in the Province, and
Hogs &,° without Number. We have certain Accounts
of their being at this time upwards of 1000 British
Troops in S* Augustine.
To tlie West and almost do^vn upon the Georgia
Line are the most numerous tribes of Indians now in
North America — to wit the Creeks, Cherokees, Choc-
taws and a number of small Tribes, in the whole at least
15,000 Gun-Men — All these Nations have been much
tam]3ered Avith l:)y the Emissaries of Government and
without tlie utmost Exertions of Prudence on our side
it is feared may be brought to act against us — they are
so situated as to make it extremely convenient for our
Enemies to s^npply tlieni from E. <fe W. Florida, with
Ammunition and every thing else they want. Our last
accounts from the Indians are rather unfavorable, and
when we consider their natural Princij^le of Infidelity
and how much more able our Enemies are to 2:)urchase
their Friendship by presents &'' than we are, there seems
to be the greatest Reason to apprehend a Ruj^ture with
them — in such a Case the Fate of Georgia may be
easily conceived. Add to all these considerations the
vast Numl^ers of Negroes we have, perhaps of them-
selves Sufficient to subdue us — in Point of Numbers the
Blacks exceed the Whites ; and the ready Channel of
Supply and secure retreat which S* Augustine affords
render them much to be dreaded. The Conquest of
Georgia would doubtless be considered as a great ac-
quisition by G* Britain. It is a most excellent Pro-
vision Country — abounds with Ship-Timber and Lum-
ber of all kinds and is most conveniently situated for a
Place of Rendezvous to their Shipping.
Under all these Circumstances it must certainly aj)-
pear indispensably necessary that Measures be imme-
diately taken for the Defence and Security of that
Province, but the low situation in Point of Means or
Ability of its Inhabitants puts it out of their Power to
do so of themselves, more especially as they have been
already put to a very great Expense in consequence* of
116 THE LEE PAPERS.
the late descent upon tliem. The great objects seem to
be, Men, Fortification and a good understanding with
the Indians. We would therefore beg leave to propose.
1^^ That his Excellency General Lee be requested to
state the ]3eculiar situation of the Province of Georgia
to the General Congress and to obtain directions from
them to raise and take into Continental Pay so many
Men as may be conceived to be sufficient to defend that
Pi'ovince — in our opinion less than Six Battalions will
not answer the Purpose. But as we do not conceive
any of these Men can be recruited in Georgia we would
aj^prehend it full as eligible (if that can be done) to
order some of the Regiments already raised to march
thither, and further that the four Troops of Horse al-
ready raised be augmented to a Begiment and put upon
the Continental Establishment. Part of these Battal-
ions and Troops may be so stationed — as to serve equally
for the protection of Georgia and South Carolina ag'*
the Indians, and above all may entirely shut up the
Communication between them and our Enemies to the
Southward, which will certainly be the most effectual
Means of preventing an Indian War.
2^^'^'^ That the sum of sterling be
granted by the General Congress for building Fortifi-
cations and Guard Boats in the Province of Georgia —
the reason why we conceive this ought to be a general
Charge because it is evident the same will serve against
attacks fi'om the South and for Cutting off the Com-
munication between E. (fc W. Florida and the Indians
upon which the Peace of the back Inhabitants of Geor-
gia S° Carolina, No. Carolina <fe Virginia dej^ends — Be-
sides It seems to be a Part of the plan of Administra-
tion to throw Forces into the Indian Country where
they expect to be Joined by considerable Numbers of
the Savages, and in this Event there is no Province
or Place through which they can so conveniently pass
as thro' Georgia.
(^rdiy Yi is a fixt Principle with the Indians to be j^aid
for their good offices, and in this Controversy we con-
THE LEE PAPEES. 117
ceive tliey will expect to be well paid even for Neutral
ity. The articles they prefer will doubtless be ammu-
nition and Cloathing but these we have it not in our
Power to give them. We would then propose Cattle as
a substitute, and are inclined to think if the Communi-
cation between them <fe our Enemies were cut olf they
would soon be brought to be well satisfied ^vith a Pres-
ent of this Kind. It is therefore submitted to the Gen-
eral Cono-ress whether it w*^ not be worth while to o-ive
Directions that a Number not exceeding 5000 Head of
Cattle be purchased, and Distributed among the Indi-
ans by the Commissioners. We are of Opinion this
step would answer many valuable Purposes and would
have a tendency not only of attaching them to our In-
terest from Gratitude, but ^vould also be a Means of
civilizing them, and by fixing the Idea of Property
would keep them honest and peaceable with us for Fear
of Peprizals.
Jonathan Bryan,
John Houstoun,
Lach^ M^Intosh.
Endorsed hy General Lee : Result of a Couferenca of the Georgian
Dejiuties.
To Robert Morris.
Charlestown July '2" 177(3.
Dr Morris
I shall not trouble you with a detail of the Enemy's
late attack on Sullivan's Island and their repulse, if I
may not call it a defeat. You will have the whole
from my letter to the Congress — let it sufiice that our
men acted much better than I had any conception raw
troops would do. The advantage must be considerable
and the credit to our Arms undoubtedly great — the
slaughter on the side of the Tyrants mercenaries was
118 THE LEE PAPERS.
not trifling — but tLey deserv'd it. I want my dr. friend
to talk a little on my own affairs — it is true I cannot
positively and formally prove that my fortune is con-
fiscated — but I have the strongest reason to believe it
and have no means of proving it — In short my situa-
tion with regard to circumstances is more whimsical and
disagreeable than any man's on the Continent. I have
really nothing that I can call my own- — tlie half of the
Estate pay'd for is more properly yours than mine. I
have this morning been conversing with M'' Rutledge on
the subject — He is of the opinion that the Congress ouglit
of their own Accords at least to have advanced the
whole purchase money of this Estate — that it is in-
delicate to keep me in this most rigid state of depend-
ency than other men. He is now writing to M'" Lynch
and his brother Ned to urge 'em to a motion of this kind
— there is one circumstance to be consider'd, how am I
to pay the interest of the money borrow'd for the pur-
chase ? how I am to pay the interest due on the differ-
ent mortgages ? I am sensible that the Congress have
made a hard bargain but they were pleased to think
otherwise — Upon the whole my friend for my ease and
let me add for the credit of the Congress, I must in-
treat and request that you will exert yourself in con-
cert with my other Friends particularly Rutledge, the
Lee's, Dickinson and the Adams's to compass the pay-
ment for the full purchase money — not only that bor-
row'd and pay'd but to clear off the incumbrances,
and likewise one thousand pounds or five hundred to
set the Estate agoing — let me have some realized prop-
erty — altho' notlialf Ihave stak'd and most probably lost
— and I shall be easy. I shall then bustle with double
vigor, for to confess the trutli I have liours of gi'eat
uneasiness on the sul)ject — l)esides will not the ])argain
the Congress have made in me appear still harder
^vhen the whole bill comes upon 'em at once principal
and intei-est — not to l)e prolix — i)ut yourself in my
place, and tell me wou'd you not think it a duty to
3'ourself to realize something^ I have already shewn
THE LEE PAPERS. 110
tlie Lighest confidence in the honour of the Congress.
I have still the same confidence, but it is composed
not only of mortal but cliangeable men. Once more
therefore let me intreat you to exert yourself in this
(to me) so imj^ortaut a point. I must beg you will
communicate this letter to the Gentlemen I have men-
tioned and to any other members you think 2:)i'oper
and relieve my uneasiness folly or whatever name
you chuse to give it. Adieu God bless you and all
your family.
Yours entirely and affectionately
Charles Lee.
My two young aid de camps Byrd and Morris
stand fire charmingly. I have a third aid de camp a
Mr. Jenifer a young gentleman of about five and fifty
who is no fiincher, the little secretary ISTourse behaved
likewise very calmly and sedately.
To General Washington.
Charlestown, July 2, 1776.
Sir :
My having early in life engaged in the last war un-
der you, and the present one we are engaged in appear-
ing to be an affair that will not l^e very shortly settled, in-
duces me to solicit your notice and patronage in obtain-
ing a ]3romotion of rank in some measui'e adequate to
my long service and rank last war. In this I flatter
myself with your notice to Congress, as otherwise I may
pass altogether unnoticed amongst the many promotions
taking place ; and my principal ha^dng left a vacancy
by his promotion, hoj)e this application vnll not be out
of time. I am, with the utmost resj^ect,
Youi' obedient, humlde servant,
Thomas Bullitt
Dear General :
You must consider this as a Postscript, and at the
120 THE LEE PAPEES.
same time recommendatory letter of your old friend
Thomas Bullitt. He is certainly a man of merit, and
entitled, from his length of services, zeal, and valour to
higher rank than he enjoys.
C. Lee.
To THE Pkesident of the Conyention of Viegixia,
Etc.
Charlestown, July y" 3"^ 1776.
SlE,
Our affair on the 28th was much more important
than I at first conceiv'd — inclosed is the narrative of
some Deserters, one of whom is a very intelligent fellow
— I think it is my duty to send this account in its pro-
per form neither adding nor curtailing a single circum-
stance. I congratulate you Sir, and the public on an
event which certainly does great credit to the American
Arras and I hope must be attended Avith very great ad-
vantages.
I am Sir, &°
Chaeles Lee.
I must beg Sir, you'll be very expeditious in for-
warding the powder to this place.
To the Honorable The President of the Convention
of Virginia, & to the President of the Council of
North Carolina enclosing to each of 'em a Nar-
rative of the late Engagement, Enemy's loss, <fec,
as taken from some Deserters.
To SiE Heney Clinton.
Charlestown July y^ 3rd 1776.
SlE,
A Certain Walker was by a most whimsical concur-
rence of wind and tide hurried into the midst of our
THE LEE PAPEHS. 121
Sentinels at tlie end of Sullivan's Island. He says lie
is Master of a Brig Transport and lias tlie principal
property in the Vessel — as the man wou'd probably be
ruin'd by this odd accident, Mr. Rutledge President of
the Province and myself would propose to you an ex-
change of this Walker for Ethan Allen, or if he is not
at j)reseiit in your Fleet or Army for any two of the
Connecticut privates who were taken prisoners with
Allen, I confess honestly to you, Sir, that I am extreme-
ly desirous of redeeming Allen and his whole party —
you I am sure are lil^eral enough to compassionate the
sufferings of those who think at least they are engaged
in a righteous cause — In this 23erswasion I propose to
you an exchange man for man of these People with the
Soldiers of the 14th who were taken Prisoners at the
Great Bridge in Virginia — if therefore any of this
l^arty are at present in youi' Custody you will oljlige
me much in releasing 'em. I pledge my word and
honor that an equal num]:>er of the fourteenth shall be
sent from the place of their confinement to Lord Dun-
more's Camp or wherever you think proper.
I take the lil^erty to request you'll accept of a small
quantity of fruit and vegetables which perhaps in your
situation are not easily procur'd — This I hope you will
consider as a testimony of the regard I have for your
personal qualities — the President joins with me in a
high opinion of Mr. Clinton.
I have, I am told, an intimate Friend and Comrade
in your Corps, Captain Primrose Kennedy of the 44th
— I intreat you will assure him of my love and Friend-
ship and send him a small portion of the Fruit.
Mr. Byrd, one of my Aid de Camps is the Flag,
who I am confident will be treated with all the respect
due to his character.
I am Sir,
Your most Obt Servant
Chaeles Lee.
To Major Genl. Clinton.
(Sent by a flag of truce.)
122 THE LEE PAPEES.
To Lieut. Col. Palfeey.
Charlestown, July y'' S'"'^ 1776.
My D« Palfeey,
The old observation that [money] spoiletli tlie [wit]
is not exemplify'd in you — on tlie contrary, you never
[were] in your life so brilliant as since you were
Master of t\vice fifty Dollars p'"" month — God in-
spire the Congress with the whim of increasing your
store, that you may become still a more entertaining
Corresj)ondent — if it was not for this consideration
I cou'd Avish you with us. We often long to laugh
w^itli the gallant Palfrey^ — ^but you wou'd only afford
us half the Amusement you did formerly — for you
must remember that not only the quantity of good
things which came out of your mouth but the quan-
tity of good things which went into your mouth fur-
nish'd us with matter of wonder and pleasure — but,
alas, were you with us you wou'd l^e totally eclips'd in
one of these branches — We have a little Secretary that
cou'd eat up you and your whole Family. We have a
considerable wager now depending, Spada is to fast
thirty six hours and the Secretary twelve. They ai-e
then to start too;ether on a course of roast Beef. I
have laid on Spada, but the majority of those who
are acquainted with the abilities of the two gentle-
men, are clear that I shall lose. You will hear of a
snub We have given Sir P. Parker. I assure you it
was hot busyness. My two Aid de Camps Byrd and
Morris stand fire most divinely — Upon my Soul they
are spirited lads. I must now intreat. My Dr. Pjilfrey,
that you will assist Capt. Grere in unravelling his
accounts with the men of the different Regiments
otherwise 1 must [ask] Whitcombe. Adieu. Write
to me often — My love to Morland and Beyler.
Yours most affectionately
Ciiaeles Lee.
To Lieut. Col. Palfrey,
Paymaster General.
THE LEE PAPERS. 123
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown 5*^ July 1776.
Dear Sir,
There is so mucli confusion arising from Commands
issuing from different Quarters, that I must request
that the Quarter Master General has the sole direction
of all which is properly in his Department ; the house
foi' instance where the Tools are kej^t, is shut up to him
— Powder is sent to the Posts without letting me know,
in short we are playing at Duke & No Duke, and
throwing everything into confusion and anarchy — I do
not mention these things from any jealousy of com-
mand, but really and literally for the good of tlie ser-
vice and wish that everything military was conducted
thro' one proper Channel. I am Dear Sir,
Your most Ob* Servant
Charles Lee.
To John Rutledge, Prest. &°
The necessary w^orks are all at a stand, and have
been at a stand these seven days.
From Col. Richard Henry Lee.
Williamsb^ Q'"" July, 1776.
My dear Friend,
The inclosed form of Government will shew you
that this Country has in view a permanent system of
Libei'ty. M"" Henry is chosen Governor, and a Privy
Council is apj^ointed to assist him in the discharge of
his important duty — A new Great Seal, adapted to our
State is ordered to be made, and now, we have in all
respects a full and free Government which this day
begins the exercise of its powers. The Convention of
Maryland has rescinded the mischievous instructions
with which they had bound their Delegates, empowered
124 THE LEE PAPERS.
three of tliem to join the other Coh^nies in a vote of In-
depeudence, Foreign Alliance, Confederation, <fe°. By
this time I expect the two former are settled in Con-
gress — Before this reaches you, no doubt you will have
heared of our having taken in this Bay a Transport with
217 Highlanders, and by this Post we learn that 5
Transports more with the same kind of Cattle have
been carried into the Eastern Ports — But this good
news is allayed by more adverse fortune in Canada —
Gen. Thomson with 2000 men went to dislodge 300
Regular Troops at the three Rivers whence he was met
by Gren. Burgoyne with a considerable force — Thom-
son's forces were routed himself and Col. Irwin taken
prisoners, with the loss of 150 men killed, wounded, <&
taken prisoners. The rest joined our Army at the
mouth of Sorel. In short, our affairs in Canada, at
present wear but an indifEerent aspect. We learn by
this post that a very extensive conspiracy (pushed on
by British gold) has been detected at New- York —
General Washington was to have been assassinated, the
magazine blown up, and the cannon spiked — 'Tis said
the'Mayor of N. York was concerned in the Plot. Many
are now in Jail for this nefarious business. Lord Dun-
more still remains on Gwin's Island where Caterpil-
lar like, we hear he has devoured everything in that
place, so that it is probable force of some kind or other
will shortly drive him thence but where he will fasten
next we cannot guess. We are concerned here at not
hearing from you, and are obliged to comfort ourselves
with the consideration that no news is good news. I
shall return to Congress al:>out the last of August, and
in the meantime nothing will more contrilnite to my
happiness than to hear that you are healthy, happy,
and successful. Our cause is the cause of Virtue and
mankind, and well supported as it is, I have no doubt
of its success. Farewell my dear Friend
Richard Hexry Lee.
My direction is at Chantilly, Westmoreland County,
Viro;inia.
THE LEE PAPERS. 125
From Col. LAciiLAisr McIntosh.
Sir,
Since I came to Savannah we hear from the South-
ward that a niiml^er of Regulars & Indians to the
amount of 5 or six hundred are come from S* Augustine
to the River S*" Marys with Intention it is said to cross
that River & enter this Province. A party of Militia
were ordered in consequence of this Intelligence to
assist the Rangers in repelling them from whom we had
no acco* yet — and the out Detachments of my Battalion
brought in for the protection of the Town, least the
attempt from the Southward may be intended to
facilitate, & co-operate with an attack fi'om Sea, which
seems probable — We are further informed that some of
the Foreign Troops are lately arrived in S* Augustine —
that they have many Indians there also who are regu-
larly trained every Day. This I thought proper to
mention to your Excellency that you may be better able
to Judge of the Enemy's Intention by Comparing their
motions here with their Manoeuvres in Carolina.
I shall be glad to receive your particular Orders on
this and every other Matter that occurs, and have the
Honor to be your Excelly'-
Most ob* Hble Servant
Lach^ McIntosil
Savannah in Georgia, 7 July, 1776.
The Bearer of this is Lieu* Col" Ell^ert of the
Georgia Continental Battalion.
Since I wrote the above an acco' is just rec*^ ]).
Express that the Indian's has killed one Capt" Smith &
his Family on little River abo' 150 Miles west of this
Town, and have taken several Family's prisoners at &
near Kecowee Fort Prince George, and carry'd them
over the Hills to Cameron Stewarts Commissary
To His Excellency Charles Lee, Esq. Major General
& Commander in Chief of the American Forces
in the Southern District Charleston S° Carolina.
126 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Cliarlestown, 7tli July, 1770.
Dear Colonel,
I am extremely conceru'd that tlie materials are not
provided, which are necessary for carrying on, and
finishing the works proposed in your Fort and Island;
but at the same time I think the Negroes you have with
you may be usefully employ' d — they may fill up the
Merlons which are not yet full — they may j^alisade (for
I believe you have palisades sufiicient) the low, and
most accessil>le parts of the Embrasures & angles — Is
your Gate fiuish'd ? How is the Bridge ? I beg you
will inform me, and am D"^ Colonel
Your most ob* Serv*
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Moultrie,
at Sullivan's Island.
To General Armstrong.
Charlestown, July y^ 7th, 1776.
Dear General,
I think, with you, that General Clinton is not a
Soldier of so poor a stamp, as to abandon all tlioughts
of making an im2:)ression either on the Town Forts or
your Post merely l^ecause the Commodores Squadron
was the other day repulsed — I am extremely uneasy in
not l^eing able to put all these places hors d'insult —
but an Angel irom Heaven cou'd not get the better of
the indolent & procrastinating sjnrit of these people —
six days have I been assur'd that Palmeto logs in abun-
dance were provided, and not a single log is (as I can
discover) procur'd. Fascines, I have order'd to be made,
but no Tools are to be found for the purpose — in short,
the whole is sunk into one universal sleep.
THE LEE PAPERS. 127
As you very prndeDtly propose fortifying your post,
I must desire you will inform me whether yon want
Guns — what size and number ? I must request likewise
that you will announce in public orders, that for the
future if any Militia men attempt to quit their station
without orders, they will be treated as Mutineers and
Deserters on the spot without waiting for a formal
Tryal.
I think the Guard in Tufts Scliooner shou'd be or-
der'd not to suffer any of 'em to j^ass without proj^er
authority and if they attempt to pass by force to tire
upon 'em — but previous to this order the whole must
be apprized of it.
I am Dear General,
Your most ob*-
Charles Lee.
To Brigadier General Armsti'ong,
Hadrals Point.
To EdMUjStD PENDLETOlSr.
Charlestown July y^ 7th. 1776
SlE,
M^ Rutledge will inform you by this Express of tlie
outrages committed by the Cherokees which must be
construed as the commencement of a war.
As it is now certain that a caj^ital and favourite part
of the plan laid down by his most excellent and clement
majesty George the Third, is to lay waste the Provinces,
burn the habitations and mix men women and children
in common carnage by the hands of the Indians ; and as
this part of his plan tho' of a piece in humanity is cer-
tainl)^ more big with mischievous consequences than the
rest, It appears to me absolutely necessary to crush the
evil before it arises to any dangerous height — indeed if
we avail ourselves of the event, it may prove a fortunate
one — perhaps we ought in policy to have a Avish for it.
128 THE LEE PAPEES.
We can now with tlie greatest justice strike a blow
wliicli is necessary to intimidate the numerous tribes of
Indians from falling into the measures of the Tyrant,
and as these Cherokees are not esteemed the most for-
midable Warriors we can 2:)robably do it without much
risk or loss. I think then Sir, that without a moments
delay a body of your Frontier Riflemen shou'd be im-
mediately furnish'd forth, and march into the Country
of the Over hill Cherokees and make a severe lasting
and salutary example of 'em. The Carolinas propose at
the same time attacking their lower Towns and with
the co-operation of Virginia entertain no doubt of suc-
cess.
Clinton's Army and Parkers Squadron are pretty
much in the same situation as when I wrote last — they
daily indeed make some alterations in the jDosition of
their land Troops from one Island to another — perhaps
for new air or water of which the Deserters say they are
in great want — they tell us likewise that consideral^le
sickness prevails in the Army and greater discontents
from hard duty and bad diet — The spirit of desertion
begins to shew itself ; five soldiers came over these last
last two nights, who assure us that were they not on an
Island from which it is difficult to escape two thirds of
their army wou'd soon be with us — I am myself inclined
to believe 'em — upon the whole, when I consider the
difficulties which the Enemy Generals have to encounter
— the temper and disposition of their Troops, and the
improving spirit of ours, I assure myself that the game
is in our hands. God give us more grace than to shuf-
fle it a^vay. I am Sir
Your most obed humble Servant
Chaeles Lee.
To The Hon° Edm'^ Pendleton
President of the Convention of Virginia.
P. S. I must request that any letters I address to
your Convention may be forwarded to the Congress
when you think 'em of sufficient imjjortance.
THE LEE PAPERS. 129
To THE President of the Congress of North
Carolina.
Charlestown 7tli July 1776.
Sir,
M'' Rutledge will inform you by this Express of the
Outrages committed by the Cherokees which must be
now construed as the commencement of a war.
As it is now certain that a capital and favourite part
of the plan laid down by his most excellent and clement
Majesty George the Third is to lay waste the provinces,
])urn the habitations <fe° <fe° tfe° without much risk or
loss (as the foregoing letter to the Convention of Vir-
ginia) I think then, Sir, that without a moments de-
lay a Body of Riflemen from your Province shou'd be
immediately furnish'd forth, to act in conjunction with
the South Carolinas against the lower Nation, whilst
the Virginians march against the Upper — I make no
doubt of your being able to make a severe lasting &
salutary example of them.
Clinton's Army and Parkers Squadron &° (as the
foregoing Letter to the Convention of Virginia) — God
give us more grace than to shuffle it away.
I am Sir, Your most ol^t. humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To the Honorable the President
of the Provincial Council of
North Carolina.
To Colonel Moultrie.
Charlestown, July 7th, 1776.
General Lee's compliments to Colonel Moultrie, and
desires he may come to town as soon as he thinks pro-
per ; he hopes the air will cure his gout.
YoL. II.— 9
130 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown July 9tli, 1776.
Dear Sir,
Colonel Moutrie informs me that not a Palmeto log
is yet arrived in the Island — Upon my Soul we have all
a great deal to answer for — ten days have been sufPer'd
to pass over our heads without adding the least to
our strength. I wish your Excellency wou'd order
some of your People to make enquiries on this head —
even the Timber for the Gate has not l^een sent, altho'
it has been promis'd many days, from, Dear Sir,
Your most obed* humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July 12*^^ 6 o'clock, 1770.
Dear Sir,
Colonel Gadsdeus pro23osal shews undoubtedly a
noble disposition, but it is really so repugnant to com-
mon prudence to make an attempt this night, that I
cannot consent to it — the Enemy must be greater Dunces
that I can yet conceive 'em if they are not by this time
hors d'insult — an hours work is sufficient to ensure 'em
against a surprise of this kind — I am however extreme-
ly happy to see this military ardor j^revailing amongst
your men and officers, and if they trust to me it shall
be avail'd of to the public Service.
I am D'^ Sir, Yours
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency Jn° Rutledge.
the lee papees. 181
Fro:\[ Joii:s" Page.
W^^irg, July y^ 12'^ 177<1
My deae Geneeal,
Your kind concern for my Health made me liappy,
<fc tlie higli Approbation you Express of my public con-
duct liighly gratified my Pride — I liad tlie ^^Icasure of
receiving your letter ^vliich did me so much honour
about the 9*^ of last Month — I was then at M'" Harri-
son's near Petersburg, where I had gone with M'"* Page
for the recovery of her health — Our Trij) hap]iily has
answered our AYishes — <fe we are once more fixed in
W^'^buro;. It is now four Weeks since we have received
any certain Account of the Situation of Affairs in either
of the Carolinas — Even your Letter to Brigadier Lewis
countermanding the March of the Trooj^s did not arrive
here 'till four weeks after it was written. The Regi-
ments had just began their March, but had they not
been scattered abroad on distant stations and badly
provided with necessaries for such an Expedition, they
would have reached the Place of their Destination be-
fore your Express could have stopped them — It will be
worth your while to examine into the occasion of this.
I thought it a matter of so much importance to have
such Orders communicated witli Dispatch, that I ad-
vised the Brigadier to send an Express to you immedi-
ately to inform you of the unaccountable Delay that
yours had met with, <fe to recommend it to you to estab-
lish a Post throughout your District, but he was pre-
paring for an Expedition against G^^^n Island — The
Brigadier set out last Monday on his Way to our Camp,
attended by the Cols. Woodford, Stephen, Buckner <fe
Weedon, & some others, intending to examine into the
strength of the Enemy, and submit the proj^riety of an
Attack to a Council of War — they reached the Camp
that Night, &, the next Day finding that the Dunmore
had changed Stations with the Otter, cfe had exposed
herself very prettily to the very Place where we had:
132 THE LEE PAPERS.
been preparing a Battery for tlie Otter, tliey deter-
mined not to lose tliis good opportnnity of beginning
their Cannonade in which they might severely tfe prin-
cipally chastise the noble Earl — at 8 o'clock a.m.
Capt. Arundel, cfe Lieut. Denny saluted the Dunmore
<fe Otter with 2 18 Pounders — the very first Shot at the
Otter, though a full Mile from our Battery struck her
as is supposed between Wind <fe Water, for she did not
return the Fire but was towed off on the Careen —
the Dunmore fired a Broad side <fe then was towed off,
havino- received 4 shot thi'ouQ-h her Sides, whilst she
was in Tow she received a 5*^ throuo-h her stern which
raked her — scarcely a shot was fired which did not do
execution in some part of the Fleet — a Schooner lost one
of her masts — whilst Lieut Denny was firing on the
Fleet, their Battery on the Island, began to play on
him, & a Ball passed through his Embrasure, on which
he immediately turned his Cannon on their Battery
(foi' he had taken the precaution to have scope enough
to take in the Fleet cfe that part of their Battery) <fc
fired 3 Times successively into their Emljrasure, which
3 Kounds completely silenced that Part of the Battery.
The other Part facing our Lines on the Haven, was
almost as soon silenced by our Battery erected against
it with 4 Nine and 3 Six Pounders — Part of their Camp
was a little exposed to both of our Batteries which fired
a few rounds into it — this Fire was as well directed as
that against their Shi2:)S for it beat down many of their
tents and threw their Camp into the utmost Confusion.
When this was discovered the Brigadier ordered Can-
nows to V)e brought down to enable his men to pass over
into the Island — for unhappily we had not a Boat on
the shore — these could not be procured 'till the next
day, when a smart Cannonade began bet^veen tlie Bat-
teries, but as soon as our men had manned their Boats,
their Fire ceased, &, they retreated with precipitation
to their Boats, and escaped safely to tlieir shi])s having
first broken off the Trunnions ^^ of their Cannon —
there were 3 Tenders up the Haven which could not
THE LEE PAPEKS. 133
pass our batteries, these tliey ahandoned — tliey endea-
voured to burn one but our Men ]:)oarded it ct; extin-
guished the FLames. I understand tliat all of them
have their swivels in them, Init it is reported that they
had thrown the Guns overboard — We are now in Pos-
session of the Island — The Fleet has retired but is in
sight — This might have been a complete Affair if ]:)ro-
per Measures had l3een preconcerted & the whole well
conducted — However our men behaved well — Our Ar-
tillery was admiral )ly served, <fc we have disgraced and
mortihed our Enemies. In this affair we lost not a
man — but most unhappily poor Capt. Arnndel was
killed b}^ the bursting of a wooden Mortar he was en-
deavouring to throw shells into the Fleet from — his
Loss is irreparable ! He behaved Avith great spii-it and
activity, & was so hearty in our Cause that he is uni-
versally lamented. Col. Stephen is just returned from
Gwyns Island, he says the Enemy carried off all their
cannon from their Batteries except one Six pounder
which they spiked — -they left 6 Carriage Guns in one
of the Tenders — several Negroes and a few whites were
taken — 2 Negroes <fe one of the 14^*" Regiment deserted
to us — The Prisoners inform that Lord Dunm ore's
Mate was cut in two by a double headed 18 Pounder
which also took off one Mans Arm & another's Leg, &
drove a splinter into his Lordshij^'s Leg — Tom. Byrd
was ill of a Fever, & was carted off to a Boat just be-
fore our People landed— they were obliged to l>urn two
•fine small Vessels that Day tfe at Night in the Mouth
of the River — they burnt also a large ship supposed to be
the Dunmore as she was not with the Fleet next Morn-
ing — it was the Logan — The Fowey it is said ^vas with
the Fleet but did not chuse to come within reach of our
Guns — The Roe buck was at the Mouth of Rappaha-
nock. The Colonel says when he came away the whole
Fleet had sailed <fc were out of sight, & it was uncer-
tain where they are gone — Some suppose to Maryland —
they Avent off in a bad Plight without Biscuit or Wa-
ter — Their Works were found of excellent Construe-
134 THE LEE PAPERS.
tion & considerable extent — they were preparing to build
Houses and a Windmill — tLey had made a vast Collec-
tion of Materials for different works — Their Tents,
which they moved off except one markee which was
left in their Hurry and through which a Cannon Ball
had passed, were capable of containing about 700 or
800 Men — from many circumstances it is evident they
meant to stay there a considerable Time. I have been
interrupted in writing <k before I could return to my
scrawl — I had the Happiness to j'eceive your Letter of
the 3"^ Jul}^ I most heartily congratulate you on your
Success — it was a most glorious Affair — a no]:)le De-
fence ! The british Navy has been happily checked in
her proud career &, has received a most just tfc compleat
chastisement. What nmst the Tyrant think of himself
now ? The whole Continent in Arms against him, 750
of his favourite Highlanders in our Possession & his
Fleets repulsed 6l disgraced along our Coasts for 2000
Miles ! Doul)tless the Hand of the Lord is upon him —
I hope he will repent &, be contented to put up with
the Loss of America, or if he does not, that he may be
turned out like Neljuchadnezzar to o-raze — Init enou^-h
of him. The Marylanders were roused up by the Ke-
solve of our Convention & have lectured their Repre-
sentatives so well that they have unanimously voted
for Independency — they have no occasion for our Rifle
Men on that Account — however I can assure you on the
Eastern shore of Maryland there has been a considera-
ble Insurrection of Tories in so much that Col. Fleming-
has been obliged to march with 120 Men to quell tliem
— we have not yet heard the Event of that Affair — a
considerable Number of those Wretches with Eden
were in the Fleet when we put them to the Scamper —
Our affairs are managed most scandalously in Canada —
for God's sake advise them ^vhat to do, for they seem
to be quite at a loss. Did you ever recommend it to
Congress to set on Foot an Expedition against Detroit
and Niagara ? I think our Augusta men assisted by
the Pensylvanians would readily undertake the Reduc
THE LEE PAPERS. 135
tiou of Detroit — if tliey were allowed all the Plunder
they can take, & were to* have a Premium in Land.
Our Governor has been extremely ill of a bilious Fever
ever since his appointment, he is still unable to do
Busyness — but by the Ordinance we are enabled to
transact public Busyness without him, in such cases. I
have just heard that the Congress declared for Inde-
pendency on y® ^nd of this month — I have written so
long and confusedly at full speed that it is time to
stoj). Tom. Lee is gone home. My complts. to Brig.
General Howe, Col. Bullett, <fc the Gent" with him —
I am most sincerely yours
John Page.
P. S. I have scratched off & inclosed a little miser-
able sketch of Gwyns Island, as it aj^peared to me
when M" Andrews and myself reconnoitred about 3
Weeks ago, <fe with our Quadrants measured the dis-
tance from our Lines to their Battery — We find it 475
yards — We then were of opinion that with the 2 18
Pounders and 4 9's, a Cannonade might do the Busy-
ness for the Ships <fe Camp, which was then extremely
exposed, & that a Raft might be made in 24 Houi's to
carry over Men enough to make Prisoners of every
Man on the Island, l)ut the Cannon were not mounted
— 3 of our Cruizers and one Row Galley are at last come
down the Rivers. J. P.
The Dunmore left 2 Cables & Anchors— the Fleet
7 fine Cables <fe Anchors, worth at least £1200. I had
sealed my letter but opened it June 1 3tli. to add a few
words more.
Lieut Denny who had been bred a seaman had
served on board a Man of War, &, had ccJmmanded an
armed schooner on the Lakes, desired leave to take one
of the Prizes — The Lady Charlotte Tender, <fe cruise
out to reconnoitre the Fleet — he was permitted to do
so, and sailed down within a Mile of the Otter, gave
her a Broadside, & then returned, bringing home with
136 THE LEE PAPEES.
liim a fiue anchor weighing SOOlb & a Cable of 90
Fathom. The Fleet is gone into the Mouth of Poto-
mack. We have just received your Letter by Page,
dated June 29th. I am delighted with your descrip-
tion of tlie l^ravery of Col. Moutrie & the Garrison of
Fort Sullivan. It is not Flattery my dear General
when I tell you, that most of us here attribute the
glorious Display of Bravery on that Day to the ani-
mating Presence of a Commander, who independent of
his great military Abilities & experience appeared to
be the Evil Genius of Clinton, who had followed him,
& from whose presence he had seemed to retire & re-
treat along the Coast from Boston to Cha^ Town. All
that I could do as there were not Gent'' enough in
Town to make a Council was to desire Brig'" Lewis to
send immediately to North Carolina all the Powder
that could be spared out of the Magazine, about 4
thousand 11:)S Avill be sent. We have a large Quantity
on the eastern shore which we have ordered over — for
Gods sake establish a Post through your District.
Once more adieu.
J. P.
Feom Col. Adam Stephen.
W^burg, 13''' July, 1776.
My Dear General,
In the words of that zealous Grecian who run him-
self to death, to announce at Athens the successful
Event of the Battle of Marathon; I do most cordially
congratulate you ; /^aiQtrb I /^aiqcof^itv ! Rejoice ! Let
us Rejoice ! Upon which expression, the Athenian ex-
pired ; but there I beg leave to be o:ffi ; and Avill pa-
tiently wait to hear more Joyful news from you.
The Event of that dreadful Cannonade is most as-
tonishing. Porto Bello, Boccochico, cfe the other Castle
at Cartliagena were compelled to yield to Vernon:
Fort Lewis in S'' Domingo yielded to Knowles's mettle :
THE LEE PAPERS. 137
Pray, of what stu:ff is Fort Sullivan made to resist so
many 12 Sl 18 pounders, for so long a time?
It is to be wished that Sir Peter Parker may quarrel
w^ Cornwallis, for not crossing the gutt, whilst he was
exerting his utmost Force by water : & no doubt, but
Cornwallis ^vill find some pretence for blameing him,
l)ut then Sir Peter can produce his Breeches in Evi-
dence.
I have been on Sullivans Island ; but do not remem-
ber the distance of Long Island from the main : The
youth and fire of Cornwallis, will 'tis to be hoped give
you an advantage : If it is an easy matter to make a
descent upon Long Island, the passage from Sullivan
to Long Island is far from being impracticable, so that
reinforcing Sullivans Island before you make that de-
scent. It may be possiVjle to put him between two fires.
But the number & convenience of procuring Boats,
the situation of his Camj) and the ground contiguous,
will determine the propriety of the attempt. At any
Rate, I hope it will l)e in your power to assist the Mus-
ketoes in keej^ing his Soldiers awake in the night.
I refer you to M" Page for politicks.
The ConoTess — the Officers — the Soldiers are to be
blamed for the loss of Canada.
The force sent thither, was not adequate, to the Re-
duction or defence of that Country.
The Enemy has now got possession of a Territory
that will suj^j^ly their army with provision. Our con-
duct there, is productive of the most extensive ill con-
sequences. I am in j^ain about N. York, & am of opin-
ion that we have not half force there.
On the 9*^ inst. the Anniversaiy of Braddock's de-
feat, a day which I mil ahvays remember, we attacked
Lord Dunmore by Sea tfc Land. The Ship Dunmore
l3"ing nearest our Battery, the first shot destroyed his
Lordships China, & spoil'd his dancing by driving a
splinter into his Leg. The second double-headed shot
cut his Boatswain asunder, and limb VI his Gunner by
the knee. The vessels soon bes-un to tow off, and were
138 THE LEE PAPEKS.
SO miicli damaged, that the Enemy were obligVl to
burn three of them, one of which is said to be the Dnn-
niore. They slipt their Cables, made the Ijest of their
way, and were drove to Sea without water, or one
Biscuit aboard, as we w^ere inform'd by the pilots and
prisoners. They have prize ilour and salt provisions
enough.
They steer'd towards the Tangier Islands. We soon
produced great Confusion in their Camp, and if we
could have procured Boats — I run mad for Boats ! — w^e
could have kill'd or taken every one of the Negroes &
Tories, tfe possessed ourselves of all their Cannon, Arms,
& Ammunition. We have taken three of their Ten-
ders, & one Row Galley would have enabled us to
destroy great part of their fleet.
We have taken a Nejohew of Capt. Squire's prisoner,
rescued two pretty French Gentlemen, who w^ere taken
by Dunmore bringing in 500 barrels of powder for our
use. AVe have likewise in custody Tom Jenn [ings]
late Attorney General in Maryland. He arrived, as he
says, at S* Augustine from London, and was taken by
Lord Dunmore in his Way to Maryland.
Poor Arundel has knock'd himself in the head by
trying Experiments. Governor Eden was in the Fleet
ready to sail for England, and made the best of his
way in beginning the Cannonade. I offer my Compli-
ments to tlie gentlemen with you, beg that you will get
the people of the Carolinas to establish a better Cor-
resjDondence w^ith us, and have the honor io be
D'' General
Your most obe* hble Servt.
Adam Stepheis".
P. S. Dunmore was buikllng Houses, Ovens, and
Windmills in the Island — you may call them Castles in
air. Gwins Island w^ould have been a convenient 2:)lace
for S" Peter to have mended his Breeches in.
This moment we are informed l)y Express that Dun-
more is arm'd in Potowmack River.
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 139
"VVe have takeu eiglit linudred of Fraser''s liigli-
landers at differeut times <k places. General Wooster
is in Philadelpliia, tfe blames tlie Congress for not sup-
porting liim, as mueli as tliey can blame liim.
N.B. There is a liellisli 23lot discovered at New-
York. Try on, Davis, tlie Mayor of the City, and sev-
eral principal persons concerned — one of Genl. AVash-
ington\s Guard is already Executed for it. Three
Commissioners sworn to Secrecy, sit dail}^ in Examin-
ing & prosecuting the discovery. Upon the arrival of
the Enemy's fleet They were to assassinate the General
and other princij^al Oflicers, blow up the Magazine,
spike the Cannon, and admit the Enemy into the City.
It is said that this Enquiry will discover many
Enemies to America in N. York, Jerseys tfe Pensyl-
vania.
To General Lee,
S. Carolina.
To General Armstrong.
Charlestown July y*^ l^'"" 1776.
Dear General,
I am extremely concerned to hear that the Virgin-
ians and North Carolina Troops are falling down in
sickness — I attribute it to three causes — being expos'd
to the Sun in the day time, lying on the damj) ground
at night, and bad water — I have prevail'd on the Pres-
ident to order 'em boards which will remedy the evil
arising from their lying on the damp ground — a quan-
tity of rum is ordered over as an antidote to the bad
water, and the third evil that of being expos'd to the
sun, I shou'd think you may remove by stationing 'em
140 THE LEE PAPEES.
in the wood on your left instead of the old field where
they at present are.
Adieu, Dear General. I shall see you to-morrow.
Yours
Charles Lee.
To Brig' General Armstrong.
To Colonel Gadsden.
Charlestown, July y*^ 15'^ 1776.
Dear Colonel,
As it now apjDears almost certain [that the Enemy]
are upon their departure, I cou'd wish you wou'd apprize
your officers that it is very probable I may regale 'em
with a march very soon to stretch their legs after their
long confinement.
I am Dear Colonel
Yours
Charles Lee.
, To Colonel Gadsden,
at Fort Johnson.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown 15 July, 1776.
Dear Sir,
It now appears certain that the Tyrant's Fleet and
Army are now on their departure — Wou'd it not be
2:)rudent immediately to order your Pilot Boat through
the Gut and Stono River to watch their motions, that
we may be ascertain'd which way they steer their
course ?
Yours Dear Sir
Charles Lee.
To His Exc'y John Rutledge.
the lee papers. 141
From Daniel of St. Thomas Jeis^ieer.
Annap^ July 17, 1776.
My DEAR Sir,
I am obliged by your favor of the 7*^ ult" whicli
only came to hand the 12*^ Inst. Your offences com-
mitted against the ruling powers in this Province are
done away. Governor Eden's behaviour after he went
on board the Fowey, justified in a great degree your
sentiment of his being seiz'd ; but the manner in which
you directed it to be done was not palatable, and there-
fore the measure was not adopted. Your Excellency
directed Purviance — Purviance of his own authority
ordered Capt. Smyth, & Caj^t. Nicholson ordered his
Lieut, all exercising absolute and distinct authority
from the plenitude of their own power — add to this,
Purviance's writing to the President of the Congress a
lettei', takino; to himself the merit of evervthinof that
Lad l)een done in Maryland ; asserting that the Council
of Safety were timid <fe terrified at his boldness, this
letter was read in Cono-ress. Our Deleo-ates demanded
O O
a Copy of it. M" Hancock said it was anonymous &
confidential & desired to be excus'd; this brought on
a debate, & a question, whether the letter should be
delivered or not, carried 6 Colonies to 4, that it should
be left to the Presidents option — the Lower Counties
were divided, Jerseys not represented — Our Delegates
applied to M"" Hancock out of the House, Sl pushed
matters so far as to become almost serious. M'' Hancock
it seems to screen his friend, had declared in the House
that the letter was anonymous ; but Purviance has given
from under his hand, that it was not, and that his name
was subscribed — thereby betraying the President as he
had before done you, by delivering to the Council your
Letter, and indeed as he also had his Country by pre-
vailing upon the Committee of observation at Baltimore
Town, to allow one or two vessels that he expected to
ai'rive after the 10*^ of Sept^^ liberty to Lade. The
142 THE LEE PAPERS.
Country people ol)liged the Committee to rescind tlieir
Oi'der. Purviance then made use of liis Interest witli
Ms Northern friends in Congress, but failed. All these
thino;s Ijeino; known and accumulated of course raised
the resentment, not only of those who were in power,
but of those who were out. The first insult the Council
of Safety received, was from the Committee of Virginia
who wrote about this busyness to the Committee of
Baltimore, which shew'd an Evident & unjust want of
confidence, for although those in power had nothing
more at heart than a reconciliation tfc restoration of
peace with Great Britain, yet they were doing every
thing in their power to Ije provided against the worst,
and have so far succeeded, as not only to supply in a
great measure their own wants, Ijut to supply the
Congress with some valual;)le articles. We have had
within two months j^tast three Vessels from the W.
Indias with 6000—8000 & 19000^'' of Gunpowder,
6000"^ of Sulphur Lead Sl besides 17000^*^ powder &
6000"' sulphur for our friends of Virg"" We have at
present al)out 70,000^*^ of powder in our different mag-
azines &> Hourly expect 55,000 more, & 1500 stand
of arms w"^ our agents were shipping off for us. These
[wise] provisions tho' never puljlished to the woild
have attached the j^eople of the Province to the Council
of Safety, so far as to disj)ense with a Law res])ecting
power, that half of the Council should go out at the
meeting of every Convention, and as many new ones to
be chosen in their stead ; have continued them with a
Cart Ijlauch, notwithstanding the unprecedented appeal
made by the Convention of Virginia to the people at
large in Maryland against them. But you may Sir,
depend upon it, that the people of Maryland, tho' the
last on the Continent to declare indejx^ndence will go
as far as any Colony towards the general defence of the
United States. Peace would have l^eeu their choice,
but as that could not l)e had consistent with tlieir safety
they will I'isque every thing before they will sul)mit.
I will now give you a specimen that does honor to
THE LEE PAPERS. 1-13
Maiylaiicl. The Congress have desired that we sliould
raise, embody, and send to Jersey 3400 of onr militia.
We have asireed to do it, & commissioned Brio;adier
Dent and other officers. But as it must take up time
to arm & equij) the men, we have dispatched Col°
Smallwood with his Battalion and three indej^end*
Companies, the whole about 1000 men, well armed dis-
cijilined and equip2:)ed, and I think are equal if not
snj^erior to any Troops on the Continent. We shall
replace them out of the men to be raised for the flying
Camp, in the meantime we have called out part of our
militia to take the stations of the Battalion & independ*
Companies, and this we have done at a time when our
Province was invaded by Ld. Dunmore with four men
of war, upwards of 60 Sail of Vessels, and when too Ave
had an Insurrection in Somerset County to quell.
From the facts above related your Excellency will per-
ceive that we have not been idle. I am still of opinion
that it is our Interest to be united with Britain and
that our Province instructed its Deleorates to ag^ree to
unite with the other Coly"" in declaring independence too
soon. These opinions I know you will reprobate. It
is l^etter that the people at large should be before their
Rulers than their Rulers to be before them; in the first
instance you are sure to be supported, in the last you
run the risque of being deserted.
Lord Dunmore has pitched his Camj^ u2)on S*
Georges Island a1)out 15 Miles up Potomack River,
where I think he will not long remain. The ship he
was on board at Grwinns Island was much shattered, 14
shot all 18 Pounders hulled her and passed through the
Cabbin very near his Lordship.
I congratulate your Excellency on your Success at
Charles Town. Adieu, God protect you, & believe me
to be, Dear Sir,
Your affect^ Friend
Daniel of St Tho"* Jenifer.
Be pleased to ]3resent my Compliments to the
144 THE LEE PAPEES.
President & his Lady, to M'' Eugee & his, & to Mr.
Middleton
Men of War with L** Dunmore, Koebuck, Lively,
Fowey, Otter, Dunmore, & many Tenders from 12 to 4
Guns. The Mate of the Roebuck was killed in a skir-
mish with our Militia.
To Archibald Bullock.
Charlestown, July y^ 18^^ 1776.
Sir,
I feel most sensibly for the distress'd situation of
youi* Province, and am determin'd to exert myself for
its relief — I wish I had it in my power to spare you a
larger force than I am afraid our present numbers will
admit of, but the instant we are assur'd the Enemy will
depart, I will order a Battalion or a number equal to
a Battalion for Savannah — ^tliese added to your own,
will I hope be sufficient to protect the Inhabitants from
insult and prevent your cattle from falling into the
hands of these hell hounds let loose by an accurs'd Ty-
rant on a people Avhose only crime is having been too
long patient with his dialjolical administration. — Two
expedients are now on foot — one from this Province
against the lower Cherokees, another against the Over-
hill Cherokees from Virginia — I flatter myself that
these two active operations will be a greater Security to
Georgia than cou'd the largest defensive Body- — if the
Enemy steer southward, I shall myself march for your
Province with all the force I can muster — but I nmst
regulate my motions by theirs.
I most sincerely wish to your Province security and
prospei'ity, & to yourself health & happiness, and am
Sir
Your most Obedient Servant
Charles Lee.
His Excellency Arch*^ Bullock.
President, &° of Georgia.
THE LEE PAPERS. 145
To CoLoisrEL McIntosh.
Charlestown, July 18'^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
As Colonel Elbert can inform you of the situation
of our affairs here I shiill not trouble you on the sub-
ject — be assured that I will do everything in my power
for the security and tranquility of your Province — The
Enemy I believe is now on its departure — The moment
I am assured that they will leave the place, a Battalion
or a number equal to a Battalion shall march to Savan-
nah — If there appears any probability that the inten-
tions of this army are against Georgia, I will repair
thither with all the force I can muster.
I am Dear Sir,
Your most ob* Servant
Charles Lee
To Colonel Mcintosh
Savannah, Georgia.
To Lieut. William T. Coles.
Charlestowu July y*' 18*^ 1776.
Sir,
It is not only a Duty I owe to the Service and the
Station I am in, but also to the character of officers in
general, to bring this affair (in which you are accus'd
of being the principal actor) to a tryal immediately —
I have ordered a Court Martial accordingly to assemble
tomorrow— I sincerely wish you may acc[uit yourself,
but as the Tryal is to be so immediately I cannot con-
sent to your aj)pearing in Public 'till it is over, and am
Sir,
Your most ob* Servant
Charles Lee.
William Temple Coles,
of Col. Poke's Regiment.
Vol. IL— 10
146 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Richard Heistry Lee.
Charles-towu, July IDtli, 1776.
My dear Friend,
I liave received yours, of the 28tlL of May, and did
uot tliink it possible that any thing could come from
your hand to give me so disagreeable sensations. You
tell me a dark, mysterious story of a certain great Gen-
eral of whom prince Ferdinand has declared, si Von veut
un ojJiGiei% &c. this great General in the clouds, will, it
seems, graciously condescend to serve America, on con-
dition that Congress will give him assurances of step-
ping over the heads of every officer but one, and this
he submits to, only on consideration of the confidence
due to an American. You ask my opinion on this sub-
ject ; but the palj^al^le meaning of your letter is, to
prepare me for a cession of my rank in favour of some
impudent adventurer. Beckwith is the man, as you
conjecture, from his known political principles and mil-
itary a1)ilities, which are so transcendent, that I ought
for the public interest to make a second sacrifice. I
am not, I believe, naturally proud ; I do not think my-
self conceited of my talents ; but to be put in competi-
tion, much more to be spurned aside, to make room for
so despicable a character as Beckwith, a generally re-
puted coward, (and a b d sycophant,) I say, to be
kicked out of my station for such a creature as this,
would swell a man moi'e humljle than myself into a
trumpeter of his own merits. Great God ! is it come
to this ? I am not, it seems, an American ; l^ut am I
not, (if I may so express myself,) Ainericanior fj)sis
Americmiis f Have I not, such has been my zeal for
your cause, once already waived my military claims in
deference to the whim and 23artiality of some of your
niem])ers? Did I not consent to serve under an old
church-warden, of wliom you had conceived a most ex-
travagant and ridiculous opinion ? Your eyes were
at length opened, and deacon AVard returned to his
THE LEE PAPERS. 147
proper occupation ; and would you now a second
time, (do you tliink it consistent with decency, I may
say, gratitude or common honesty) to load me a sec-
ond time with a similar disgrace ? Have I betrayed
any ignorance in my profession ? Have I shewn a de-
ficiency in courage ? Am I slackened in my zeal or
industry ? What have I done to merit such an indig-
nity ? What part of my conduct can justify your har-
bouring such an idea ? Have not I staked my fortune,
life, and reputation in your cause ? Is there a service
in Europe to speak proudly, (your injurious proj)osal
forces me to it,) is there a service in Europe, where with
some small reputation, and my powerful friends, I might
not expect the same rank I now hold ? Have I not made
myself a voluntary slave for the insurances of Ameri-
can freedom ? Have I, sleeping or waking, employed
a single thought, but for her welfare, glory or advan-
tage 'i But enough of this — You ask my opinion, and I
will freely, explicitly, and concisely give it to you. If
the Congress supercede me, I will, I must obey ; but, I
hope, in common justice, and for their own honour that,
they will re-estal:)lish me, at least in part, in the easy
fortune which I have forfeited, so as to enable me to
retire from a service to which I am no longer thought
adequate. Before I conclude, let me once more repeat
confidentially to you, that if Beckwith is the man, in
whose favour you meditate so gross a piece of injus-
tice, you will make a very bad bargain, as he is cer-
tainly, unless fame belies him, neither possessed of
courage, abilities, or integrity.
In God's name, if a real genius, or acknowledged hero,
favoured by Heaven with a more than common portion
of etherial spirit, should present himself, {a la Lijjpe^
or 3rafjansa^) receive him with open arms, as an im-
mediate present from God ; invest him with the com-
mand of the whole. No man loves, respects, and rev-
erences another more than I do General Washington.
I esteem his virtues, private and public. I know him
to be a man of sense, courage, and firmness, but if a
148 THE LEE PAPEKS.
hero should start up, endowed with the attributes,
which, according to my persuasion reside in the two I
have mentioned, and who would charge himself with
the mighty task of your political salvation, General
Washington ought, and, I am convinced, would resign
the truncheon ; but that a little, paltry, impudent ad-
venturer should sneakingly stipulate for the second
rank, when, if his motives were pure, he could be
equally serviceable in the third, fourth, fifth, or sixth ;
it is not to be endured, it is a gross imposition on com-
mon understanding, and a grosser attempt to rob an in-
dividual. I must beg and conjure you, my dear friend,
for such I am sure you are, to consider the delicate, per-
haps, you will say, false notions in which soldiers are
bred ; and that you will be careful of putting to so se-
vere a trial the sensibility of one, who is most sin-
cerely, devotedly, and affectionately. Yours,
Chaeles Lee.
To Eichard Henry Lee, Esq.
P. S. I am extremely shocked with the pallid com-
plexion of your public councils ; is it possible that such
a despicable group as the Maryland Convention should
lay an embargo on the great vessel of the common-
wealth ! Can you be so weak as to hunt for the chi-
maera, absolute unanimity ! Why do you not advise
the aggregate of the people to enfranchise themselves ?
Your idea of quitting Canada from want of specie is to
me inconceivable, when you can or ought to command
plate sufficient to purchase ten Canadas.
To Pkesident Rutledge.
Charlestown, July y'' 19th, 1770.
Dear Sir,
When I requested you to collect a number of boats
for the transportation of Troops to the Islands it was
THE LEE PAPEES. 149
my intention to transport tlie greatest force I con'd pos-
sibly ninster, to take the command in person, and en-
deavor to bring the Enemy to a battle; had we been
victorious, there would have been an end of all their
Southern operations, had we been defeated, it is true
tbe loss, wou'd have been great, but not irreparable :
u]ion the whole, l^al lancing the important consequences
of victory and the disadvantages of a defeat, I shou'd
have been justifiaVjle in risking a general action — but the
number of boats collected wou'd never have answered
this purpose — They would contain at the utmost only
twelve hundred men, a body too small to be detach'd
on such an errand, in fact Islands present such manifokl
advantages to the enemy over us that we must never
venture on 'em without an insurance or great probabil-
ity of a compleat victory, because if defeated we have
no possibility of retreat — As the Post on Long Island
and all Schemes of attack are now ended, I only men-
tion these things to explain the motives of my putting
you to the trouble of collectino- the Boats, the whole
may be now undoubtedly returned.
Captain Hatter tells me that in this fleet of Craft
there is one wooden boat belonging to Major Capers
which might with little alteration be converted into an
excellent Gralley as we all agree a fleet of Gallies may
be of the greatest use, and that it should be estalilished
without loss of time, I should think that every boat
which with little troul^le can be thrown into that form
ought to be 23urchased.
I am Dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge
I wish you would turn your thoughts to the defence
of Georgia, and what Regiment can best be spared from
your Province for that purpose.
150 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Kutledge.
Charlestown 20*^^ July, 1776.
Dear Sir,
I received your Letter witli respect to the Boats
yesterday very late — in consequence of this letter, I de-
sired M"" Platter to defer returning the boats till this day.
I should otherwise have discharged 'em — for my own
part I did not know that they cou'd be of any use in
transporting the Troo])s to Georgia — the Baron & I
shall tomorrow lay out the works we inteud for Sulli-
van's Island. Your Excellency will take care that they
are finished — I have not your Constitution with regard
to the Military — am a Stranger to the extent of my
authority over the Colonial Troops ; but had I an un-
limited Authority I should request your Excellency to
settle w^hich of your Regiments may w^ith the greatest
conveniency march to Georgia — I should think Tliomp-
sons and Sumpters are the best calculated — they will
together make about the strength of a Battalion — the
Continental Regiment may probably be called to the
Northward.
I am Dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency the President.
P. S. Not a moment should be lost in preparing 'this
Corps for Georgia.
To Ed^iund Pendleton.
Charlestown July ye 20*^ 1770.
Sir,
The Enemy's Fleet and Army are certainly on their
departure from this ])lace — the Connnodore's Ship has
repass'd the Bar, the whole Troops are re-imbarkVl ; it
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 151
is iinpossil)le to say where they intend to direct their
course — ^I am iuclin'd to think your Province will be
the next scene of their operations, for which reason Sir,
I think it my duty to put you on your Guard, that you
may be prepar'd for their reception — the moment I am
ascertain'd of their designs I shall set out to assist in
counteracting 'em.
I am Sir,
Your most ob* Serv*
Chaeles Lee.
To the Hon° Edm'^ Pendleton,
President of the Convention of Viro-inia.
[A copy of this letter was at the same time for-
warded to General Lewis.]
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July the 20**^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
As the expedition from Virginia against the Overhill
Cherokees, and your expedition against the lower nation,
have, I apprehend some relation or dependance on each
other what shall I say on the subject in my letter to
the Convention ? Sliou'd I not give 'em as minute a
detail as possible of the Army now ready to march ?
Of their numljers, condition and the time when it may
be expected they will be in the Enemy's Country ?
And am Dear Sir,
Yours
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge.
152 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Edmukd Pendleton.
Charlestown, July 20tli, 1776.
Sir,
I think it my duty to apprize you that the Enemy's
Fleet and Army are now, in all human prolmbility ou
their departure from this Coast ; their Troops are all re-
imbarked ; the Commodore's Ship and the Solebay have
re-passed the Bar, the Experiment and five other ships
alone remain on this side but are preparing to pass the
next tide — it is impossible to say where they will bend
their course — l:)ut I am myself inclin'd to think Virginia
will be the scene of their operations — the deserters in-
deed assert that it is their intention to proceed to New
York ; but it appears to me from Lord George Ger-
maine's interce2)ted letter, that General Clinton is re-
stricted to these Southern Colonies — perhaps they may
try Georgia, the weakness of which Colony and the ex-
pectation of a powerful co-operation on the part of their
Indian Allies may allure them ; but on the other hand,
the distress'd situation of their Fleet and Army, from
the want of good water, fresh provisions and vegetal^les
will make the temptation of the Table which Lord Dun-
more, I understand, has spread for 'em on Guyn's Island,
irresistable — upon the Avhole, I must repeat that I am
perswaded Virginia will be their object — I hope and
and make no douljt, Sir, that you will be prepared for
their reception.
I think it necessary for the common service to inform
you. Sir, that a Corps of at least fifteen hundred men
wnll be assemlded on the Cherokee line in less than
three weeks from the present date ; this number is sup-
posed to l)e adecpiate to the end proposed ; that is, the
destruction of the Crops of the lower Nation and of
course striking a necessary terror into the minds of
other Nations. I mention this, as I apprehend the ex-
pedition projected against the Overhill Cherokees from
your Province, may have some dej^endence on the ma-
THE LEE PAPERS. 153
IK eiivres of the Caroliners against the lower Nation, but
altho' being ignorant of tlie Geography and circumstan-
ces of the Country, I speak in the dark, with regard to
the relation which one expedition may have with the
other, the informing you of the number of the Carolina
Corjjs and the time they may be expected to enter the
Enemy's Country can be of no service.
As soon as I can be ascertain'd of the Enemy's de-
signs, I shall set out for the point of action in hopes to
render all the service in my power to the j^lace attack'd
as well as the common cause.
I am Sir, with the greatest respect
Your most obed* humble Servant
ChaPvLes Lee.
To The Hon. Edmund Pendleton,
President of the Convention of Virginia.
To Captain Hattee.
Charlestown, July 21^* 1776.
Sir,
I never was so astonish'd in my life as at your
strange proceeding in sending an officer of the Enemy
through the Country without apprizing General Arm-
strong who commanded the nearest jDOst — not only send-
ing him thro' the Country ])ut into the heart of the
Town — to examine our weakness and make a report to
the General accordingly. Your Conduct once more
I must repeat astonishes me to the last degree.
Charles Lee.
154 THE LEE PAPEES.
FeOM THE PeESIDENT OF CoNGEESS.
Pliiladelpliia, July 22, 1770.
Sie:
Your favour of tlie 2*^ instant, containing the very
agreeable intelligence of the success of the American
Army under your command, I had the honour of re-
ceiving, and immediately laid the same before Congress.
It affords me the greatest pleasure to convey to
you, by their order, the most valuable tribute which a
free peoj)le can ever bestow, or a generous mind wish
to receive — the just tril^ute of gratitude for rendering
important services to an oppressed country.
The same enlarged mind and distinguished ai'dour
in the cause of freedom, that taught you to despise the
prejudices which have enslaved the bulk of mankind,
when you nobly undertook the defence of American
liberty, will entitle you to receive from posterity the
fame due to such exalted and disinterested conduct.
That a handful of men, without the advantage of
military experience, animated only with the sacred love
of liberty, should repulse a powerful fleet and army,
are circumstances that must excite gratitude and \von-
der in the friends of America, and prove a soui'ce of
the most mortifying disappointment to our enemies.
Accept, therefore. Sir, the thanks of the Independent
States of America, unanimously declared by their Dele-
gates to be due to you and the brave Officers and Troops
under your command, who repulsed witli so much valour
the attack that was made on the State of South Caro-
lina, on the 28*^ of June, by the Fleet and Army of
his Britannick Majesty, and be pleased to conununicate
to them, this distinguished mark of the approbation of
their country.
I have the honour, to be, with great respect, Sir,
Your most obedient and very humble Servant
John Hancock, President.
To Major General Lee,
Charleston, S. C.
THE LEE PAPERS. 155
\_Eiiclosed in tlie lyrecediiKj Utter.']
Ill Congress, July 20"^ 1776.
Resola'ed,
That the Tlianks of the Uuited States of America,
be Given to Major General Lee, Colonel AYilliam
Moultrie, Colonel William Thompson, and the Officers
and Soldiers, under their Command, who on the 28*
June last Repulsed with so much Valour the Attack,
which was that day made on the State of South Caro-
lina by the Fleet and Army of his Britannic Majesty
That M' President Transmit the foregoing Resolu-
tion to General Lee, Colonel Moultrie and Colonel
Thompson. By Order of Congress
JoHX Hajs^cock, Pres*
From Sir Henry Clii^ton^.
Off Charles-Town Bar, July 22, 1776.
Sir,
On my return to the fleet, I found a letter from
you by a flag of truce, with some refi'eshments you
were pleased to send me, in return for which I must
beg your acceptance of a cask of porter, and some
English cheese.
I have made enquiries concerning the person men-
tioned in your letter, who, it seems, has occasioned this
correspondence between us, but can learn nothing fur-
ther about him, than that he is not a master of a vessel,
as he has represented himself to you : and you will
have been already informed by Mr. Byrd that Ethan
Allen, and those that were with them, are gone to the
Northward. I am, Sir,
Your most humble servant,
H. Clijstton.
To Charles Lee, Esq. Major General
in the service of his Polish Majesty.
153 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Rutledge.
Cliarlesto^vn y" 22°"^ July 1776.
Dear Sir,
I am mucli conceru'd and not a little surprised tliat
the Council sliou d object to sending their Troops, when
requir'd for the common defence, to a neighboring
Province — is it reasonable? is it just that the other
Colonies shou'd be oblig'd to march to their assistance,
and refuse in their turn to assist others ? I have long
wish'd and wish now more ardently than ever that the
Continental Congress wou'd suffer no Colonial Troops
to exist — I must now. Sir, request in my capacity as
General appointed by Congress to watch over the Safety
of the Southern District, that you will order a number
of your Troops equal to a compleat Battalion to march
immediately to Savanna for the defence of Georgia —
if the Council cannot comply with this requisition I
should be glad to l)e inform'd of the reasons that I may
lay 'em before Congress, and be able to exculpate my-
self if any calamities fall uj^on that, at present, defence-
less country.
I am. Dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
P. S. The Inhabitants of this Town begin or rather
continue to fleece the Army most unmercifully — Six
pounds one tfe threepence is demanded for l^uiying a
Soldier of Muhlenberg's. I beg your Excellency will
correct these abuses.
^ To His Excellency John Rutledge.
THE LEE PAPERS. 157
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July 23^'^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
I have this instaut received your Excellency's letter
with the opinion of the Council on the subject of de-
taching a number equal to a Battalion of the Colonial
Troops into Georgia, and hope I shall not be thought
rude in confessino;, that I do not see the least weight
m any one of their arguments ; but that on the con-
trary, they furnish su]:>stantial reasons for once more
urging the requisition.
That Chai'lestown and its harbour are capital ob-
jects in the eye of the Enemy, and that their security
against the attempts of the enemy, is of the highest im-
portance, is a truth, I believe no man will contradict ;
a truth of which not only the Council here are sensil)le
of, ])ut the whole Continent : The Convention of Vir-
ginia, the Council of North Carolina were so sensible
of it, that without the least opposition, they saw them-
selves stripped of a considerable part of their force to
defeat the Enemies designs against Charlestown and its
harbour ; Virginia actually sent out a large Corps of
Militia in order to enable North Carolina to spare a
greater number of her regulars to the assistance of
South Carolina.
That the two Forts rais'd (at so great an expense)
require a constant Garrison (at least as strong a Gar-
rison as now station'd in them) I certainly shall not
deny, nor have I given the Council the least reason to
think that I have an intention to diminish them.
You say, Sir, that when necessity requires it you
shall be ready to assist Georgia with the greatest alac-
rity. The Georgians tell us that this time of necessity
is come. They cry out for assistance.
But it is said, that the Continental Troops ought to
be detachVl to Georgia in preference to the Colonial
Troops ; that it is a matter totally immaterial to them,
158 THE LEE PAPEES.
wlietlier Tliey are in Georgia or in tliis Province, as
long as tliey are remov'd from the spot where they have
been raised, that it will he a greater satisfaction to the
Inhabitants that their own People shon'd be amongst
'em than the Continental Troops, and finally, that it is
natural to suppose, that your own j^eople in the day of
battle, will act ^vith more ardor as they fight in the
presence of their ^vives & children.
To these arguments I shall beg leave to answer, that
every point is material or immaterial according to the
way of thinking of the party concerned — That the Con-
tinental Troops do think marching to Georgia at pres-
ent a point material — consequently it is so; They con-
ceive it but just and reasonable after having marched
so great a distance for your safety, that your people
should take their tour of fatigue and they in their turn
be indulg'd with some repose.
As to the satisfaction it will give the Inhabitants,
I shall not dispute it, but I do not see w^hy tlie satis-
faction of the Inhal)itants of your Province should be
consulted in these cases more than the satisfaction of
the other Provinces — the North Carolina officers and
those of the Virginia Regiment receive Letters every
day from their friends and Pelations expressing their
hopes and impatience for their retiuii — Do you 'oelieve,
Sir, that it wou'd give satisfaction to those friends and
relations of theirs to hear of their further removal ? on
the contrary, might it not possil)ly give them great un-
easiness and um]3rage ? in short, ISir, if I was to act
on the princij^le of giving satisfaction to the inhabit-
ants of any one Province partially, the great system of
general defence must l)e broke to pieces.
I must lastly take the liberty to observe that the
idea of soldiers actins; with more valour at their own
doors IS rejnignant to facts drawn from history and
common oljservation, respectu suarum rerum^ rerum
Goi)iniu)ii((m obliviscinitur, is a trite adage in every mil-
itary man's mouth — the attention of the soldier is
drawn off from the voice of the Officer by the cry of a
THE LEE PAPERS. 159
liog or a scream of a lien from liis own liamlc^t ; in
short, nothing is more certain than that Soldiers are
more Soldiers in every respect the further they are re-
mov'd from their homes.
You remind me, Sir, that an Indian War is break-
ing out, but you nmst recollect that in our conversa-
tions on this sul)ject, you have always given me assu-
rances that your Frontiers wou'd furnish more men
than sufficient for this purpose — nor can I see that the
detachincr a Battalion into Geori^ia, can in the least
tend to incapacitate you for this War.
The Council, Sir, observe with concern and surprise,
that I shou'd mention it as a thing probable that the
Continental troops may move Northward — and at the
same time detach to a distance a number ecjual to a
Battalion of your Colonial Trooj^s, even whilst the En-
emy are in view — You may be assured, Sir, that my
duty to the public, my particular regard for this Prov-
ince, or my own rej^utation, will not suffer me hastily
to adopt any measure which may leave an open to the
Enemy for possessing themselves of so rich a prize — I
never harbour VI a thought of running blindfold alter
them with the w^hole Troops at my heels — When I
leave this place I shall endeavour to leave it in a pos-
ture of security as far as my means will admit.
Your Excellency may recollect that this method of
assistino; and sendino; to the Province attack'd, from its
immediate Neighbor, is literally agreeable to your own
plan, and I am doubly concerned therefore when your
Province is call'd upon for this j^urpose that the meas-
ure shou'd meet with any opposition.
Upon the whole, Sir, when I consider the defence-
less state of Georgia, when assistance is so loudly and
pathetically call'd for by the Governor Council and
People, I think that l^oth duty and humanity oblige us
to grant it.
I think that in reason, justice, and policy this succour
ought to consist of the Colonial Troops and not of the
Continental, and I once more earnestly request your
160 THE LEE PAPERS.
Excellency and the Council to order a Body equal to a
Battalion in number to march immediately to Georgia.
I am much flatter'd with the good opinion the
Council entertain of my abilities and shall labom- to
deserve it, and am D'' Sir,
Yours
CiTAPtLEs Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge.
To Colonel Huger.
Charlestown, July y" 23^'' 8 oclock.
Sir,
The bare possibility of the Enemy's making an
attempt on Port Royal is a sufficient reason for moving
a respectable force towards that quarter — As I have
not only a great opinion of your capacity, but of your
zeal for the public Service, I am perswaded you Avill
accept this command with alacrity and pleasure — I
must request therefore that you will prepare your
Regiment to march as early as possible tomorrow —
three hundred militia shall be added to your command,
and a corps of Rifle Men as soon as they can be procured
— If it appears a certainty that the Enemy have really
a design on that district, I will myself follow with the
Major part of the Army
I am Sir. Yours
Charles Lee.
Colonel Huger.
P. S. Order the Waggon Master to j^repare Wag-
o-ons sufficient.
THE LEE PAPERS. 161
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown 23'''^ July ^ past
Ten o'clock — Night.
Dear Sir,
I was already apprised of Colonel Bull's rank and
merit, but cannot conceive that any officer of merit
shou'd be disgusted by being superceded in command
when there is visibly no intention to disgrace him — it
must frequently haj^pen in the course of service that
men of the greatest merit must be superceded by men of
very moderate reputations — at present this is certainly
not the case — if such a false delicacy or sophisticated
notion of honor really exists, the sooner it is eradicated
the better — its existence wou'd throw everything into
confusion — Colonel Bull, if he is the man of sense and
zeal for the j^ublic as he is represented, cannot possibly
be disgusted by such a commoti incident — I therefore
see no reason or shadow of reason for altering my mind,
on this subject, and must entreat your Excellenc)^ to
take the necessary measures for expediting the march
of Colonel Huger and the corps propos'd, and am Dear
Sir
Your most obedient
Charles Lee.
His Excellency Jno. Rutledge.
From Benjamin Rush.
Dear General,
It would take a Volume to tell you how many
clever things were said of you, and the brave Troops
under your command after hearing of your late victory.
It has given a wonderful turn to our affairs — The loss
of Canada had sunk the spirits of many peoj^le who ■
Vol. IL— 11
162 THE LEE PAPERS.
now Ijegin to think onr cause is not desperate, <fe that
we shall yet triumph over our enemies.
The declaration of independence has produced a
new sera in this part of America. The Militia of Penn-
sylvania seem to be actuated with a spirit more than
Roman. Near 2000 citizens of Philad^ have lately
mai'ched towards New-York in order to prevent an in-
cursion being made by our enemies upon the state of
New- Jersey — The cry of them all is for battle. I think
M' Howe w411 not be able to get a footing in New-
York, and that he will end the present or begin the
next campaign in Canada, or in some one of the
Southern Colonies — the only places in which America
is vulnerable. We depend u23on Gates in the North, &
you oblige us to hope for great things from the South.
The tories are quiet — but very surly. Lord Howes
proclamation leaves them not a single filament of their
cobweb doctrine of reconciliation. The sj)irit of liberty
reigns triumphant in Pennsylvania. The Proprietary
gentry have retired to their Country Seats, and honest
men have taken the Seats they abused so much in the
government of our State.
The papers will inform you that I have been thrust
into Congress. I find there is a great deal of difference
between sporting a sentiment in a Letter or over a glass
of wine upon j^oliticks, <k discharging pi'operly the duty
of a Senator. I feel myself unequal to every part
of my new Situation except where plain integrity is re-
quired.
My former letters to you may pass hereafter for a
leaf of the Sybills. They are full of 23redictioiis, and
what is still more uncommon — some of them have
proved true. I shall go on — and add that that I think
the Declaration of independence will produce union
and new exertions in England in the same ratio that
they have done in this country. The present Campaign
I believe is only designed to train us for the Duties of
next Summer. What do you think of the States of
America being divided between two or three foreign
THE LEE PAPEKS. 163
States cfe of seeino' tlie Armies of two or three of the
most powerful Nations in Europe upon our Coasts ?
Adieu, Yours Sincerely
B. Rush.
Phil'" July 23'^ 1776.
P.S. I sent a copy of that part of yonr letter in
which you commend M'' Morris so highly to his father.
My Comj)lt^ to the gallant youth.
Major General Lee,
Charlestown, S° Carolina.
. To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July y'' 24'^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
I have receiv'd two letters from M"" Bulloclv, one of
which alone I have kept — inclosed is an extract from it
— the other of a later date is much more urgent — I am
sorry that the Council requires such formal evidence.
I was in hopes my word wou'd have been sufficient —
Col. Mcintosh has press'd me most pathetically in two
letters not to delay a moment in sending some Force to
their Province. The Gentlemen who were here were
eternally urging the necessity — in truth, Georgia is in a
most lamentable state of weakness and impotence, and
I hope that your Excellency and Council will take the
measures Avhich apj)ear to me as well as to all others
with whom I have convei-s'd necessary at this juncture.
I am Dear Sir,
Your most ob*
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge.
164 THE LEE PAPEES.
To COENELIUS HaRNET.
Charlestown July y^ 24*^ 1776.
Sir,
I intreat you will present my respects to the Council
of Safety, and that I think myself extreamly happy in
having obtain'd their good opinion — I shall labour to
deserve it — I am, if possible, more concerned than you
can be, that your light horse Companies are not put on
the Continental establishment — They are a species of
Troops more than usefull, they are in my opinion a sine
qua 7ion., particularly in these Southern Colonies — I
have in all my letters to Congress urged the necessity of
being furnish'd with a considerable Body of cavalry —
I have even ventur'd to insure the safety and protection
of my wide extensive Command, had I only a thousand
good cavalry at my disposal ; I have dwelt much on the
extreme difficulty of securing ourselves from insult and
danger without them ; but I know not how it happens,
the Congress has never made the least reply on the sub-
ject — to say the truth, unless a War office is establish'd,
or a particular Committee appointed to superintend and
regulate all military matters abstracted from all other
business — our military affairs will hobble on in but a
slovenly manner — however, I have wrote so strongly
and repeatedly on this topick that I am in hopes to force
their attention at last. I shall not cease dinning it in
their ears.
Nothing gives me greater pain than the wretch'd
condition your Troops are in from want of cloaths — will
it not be possible to collect in the Province a sufficient
quantity of woollen to protect 'em in some degree fi'om
the injuries of the weather? I sincerely wish you may
be able to make such a provision — I do not mean to
flatter, but upon my honor they are deserving of the
greatest attention— such at least I am sure, they are en-
titled to, from, Sir, Your most Obed* humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To Cornelius Plarnet, Esq.
President of the Council of Safety of North Carolina.
the lee papers. 165
Orders to Colonel Poke.
Charlestown July 25**^ 1776.
Sir,
Yon are to marcli from lieiice witli that part of
your Regiment now under your Command to tlie other
side of the Boundaiy line, where you are to station
yourself in the manner the most convenient either to
prevent the enemy making predatory incursions into the
Country by way of the various Inlets ; or to cut off
their communication and correspondence with the dis-
affected inhabitants residing in that Tract of Country
from Little River Inlet to Fort Johnson.
You are to apprize General Moore of your instruc-
tions and situation and receive whatever farther orders
that officer j^leases to issue. I am Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Poke, of the
4*'' Reg*' of North Carolina Troops.
To Colonel Bull.
Charlestown, 25'^ July 1776.
Sir,
The great imj^ortance of Port Royal made it very
probable that the enemy wou'd make some attempts
upon it — I therefore thought it expedient to detach
Colonel Huger with the remains of his Regiment and
three hundred militia to defeat any attempt of this
kind — Colonel Huger is since Countermanded, but the
Militia march under the command of Colonel Kershaw
and will put themselves under your orders — the reason
of Colonel Huger's being countermanded is a very
whimsical one in my opinion — it is entirely against my
own inclination, and I have so good an opinion of your
166 THE LEE PAPERS.
zeal and understanding tliat I am perswaded you will
yourself (tho' cliieily interested) disapprove of tlie prin-
ciple on whicli Colonel Huger is prev^ented from pro-
ceeding.
It was urged by the Governor and Council that you
wou'd resent being superceded — to wliicli I reply'd
(and I liope justly) that Colonel Bull was represented
to me as a man of too much sense and puljlic spirit to
take amiss an incident that must daily fall out in tlie
course of service— that it was impossible he cou'd enter-
tain so sophisticated a notion of honor and false deli-
cacy — that if such notions really did exist, the sooner
they were eradicated the better — that if such a way of
thinkino; became fashionable an embaro;o wou'd l)e laid
on all service ; that I protested against the principle,
and dreaded the consequences of establishing the pre-
cedent ; however, I suffer'd myself to be overborne, and
think I ought to make some apologies to you. Sir, for a
step which may imply a perswasion that you cou'd pos-
sibly harbour such narrow ideas as to think yourself
disgrac'd by an incident inevitable in the course of ser-
vice, as I have really the highest respect for your char-
acter and good qualities, and am sir, most sincerely
Your most ob'' humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To Colonel Bull.
From John Dickinson
My dear General,
I receive with pleasure every mark of your Friend-
ship, and none with more, than when you freely com-
municate to me your Disapprol)ation of any part of my
conduct. As long as you give me that proof of a sin-
cere esteem for me, so long I shall most affectionately
love you ; and so highly do I value your Esteem, that
if my frailties did not furnish sufficient opportunities to
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 167
evidence your Esteem in tliat manner, I sliould be
almost tempted voluntarily to err, that I might receive
repeated Testimonies of so agreeable a Truth. I enter-
tain as much veneration for your al)ilities and integrity,
as it is possible for man to do ; and yet, for my soul, I
cannot agree with you, that a Declaration of Indepen-
dence at this time, will promote the happiness of my
Country. I have tried, I have toil'd to thrust the Belief
of the Proposition into my Mind. I have represented
to myself, that you and several other good ana sensible
men think it as clear as any axiom in Euclid — that my
Reputation, at least my Popularity must inevitably be
sacrihc'd by my obstinate Heresy — yet I have so much
of the spirit of martyrdom in me that I have been con-
scientiously compelled to endure in my political capa-
city, the Fires <fe Faggots of Persecution, rather than
resign my imj^ious Persuation. To add to my comfort,
this Reflection occurs, when I consider the weight that
is due to the sentiments of some of those who differ
from me in opinion, that perhaps I am suffering for
a most absolute Falsity. However, Avhile I think as I
do, the Falsity is sacred to me, and I dread nothing
more than offering violence to my Integrity. " 3Iea
me virtiite involvo " — and I am sure this Virtue ought
to be a very warm thick Cloak, for I am a Witness, that
it brings many storms and hard blows upon us ^^^^or
mortals. — Among the rest, and here, my dear Friend, I
am serious — that it has deprived me of the little j^ower
I once possest, that now might be exalted in your Ser-
vice, our Convention, since 1 have been in this place
with my Battalion, have left me out of the new Delega-
tion. But your right to obtain from Congress the satis-
faction you mention is so manifest, that I have not the
least doubt but they will immediately order the money
to be paid. I have wrote on the subject to a particular
friend of mine, who is a Delegate and a man of a1;)ili-
ties, which I am convinced he will exert in your Cause.
I most heartily wish you success in that Business, and
in every other that can give you pleasure. I congratu-
168 THE LEE PAPERS.
late you on tlie Success in Carolina. Do crush the
Enemies of Liberty to tlie Soutli\vard so effectually and
quickly, that I may have the Pleasure of ser\dng under
you this Summer. Lord Howe and his Brother are
now on Staten Island — Their Quarters are about five or
six miles from this Place, at least the Generals are —
Their advanc'd Posts about half a mile from ours — the
Sound between — our Militia to the numljer of 22 hun-
dred stationed along it — General Mercer commands —
We are to 1)e reinforced, and are preparing Boats &" to
make a descent on the Island, all over which the Ene-
mies are spread — their numbers said to be between 8
<fc 10 thousand — A smash upon them, before the rest of
the Fleet arrives, may render their Efforts against New
York, less effectual. I wish you were here to direct
our operations in this aifair — As far as I can judge, a
good deal of Generalship will V)e necessary for giving
success to the measure — the Island being much inter-
sected by streams <fe morasses, besides the Sound that
surj'ouncls it, in the narrowest places twenty perclies
broad. May Heaven bless you, my dear Sii", is the Sin-
cere Prayer of your ever affectionate,
John Dickhstson.
Elizabeth Town in Jersey
July 25*^^ 1770.
From Colonel McIntosh.
Sir,
I was honor'd "with your Excellency's Letter of the
18*^ Inst, by Col. Elbert, tfe well pleased that you had
the Safety of this Colony so much at heart.
I send Lieut. Seixias of our Battalion Express to
inform your Excelly. that I am just told by a Gentle-
man come i\\) the River, that he saAv a Fifty Gun Ship
yesterday afternoon sailing over our Barr into the
TITE LEE PAPERS. 1G9
River, where four other Ships Lay at Anclior, and five
other Ships under sail outside, which iir'd several
Guns, ct; are probably in by this time. This I tliought
proper to give your ExcelP', the earliest intelligence
of, as I imagine those gentry will not be guilty a second
time of the same delay as in Carolina, or allow us to
ju'ei^are for them or your ExcelK to meet here again.
I have not any doubt myself but this is the fleet from
Charlestown. I ever was of opinion they could not
in Honor go away without attempting some thing, and
no place so probable as Georgia. I will continually in-
form you of the movements of the Enemy, and if we
should not see your Excellency here soon, which I hope
will not be the case, I shall be glad of your orders.
I have the Honor to be your Excell''®
most obt. Hble Servant,
Lach"" M^Intosh.
Savannah in Georgia, 25^^ J^^ty? 1776.
I enclose yesterday's Report.
His ExcelP' General Lee, Charlestown.
A Report is just come to Town of an Engagement
up the Country with the Indians in which some wei'e
killed on both sides, but particulars unkno\vn.
p. Lieut. Seixas Express.
Robert Morris to General Gates.
Phil" July 25^^^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
I ought to have wrote yoti a fortnight ago, that
Mrs. Gates with 3^our son Bob, had gone for Virginia
after about a Weeks stay with us, during which you
had the misfortune to lose a horse. I believe he
had been too hard drove, at least Bob thought that
170 THE LEE PAPERS.
was tlie cause of his death, although the Servant would
not allow it. Mrs. Gates l^ought another from M''.
Hancock for which I am to pay him forty pounds, and
shall charge it to your account. Mrs Gates did not
take the money she wanted at home, but is to draw on
me for it.
I hope you will be al:)le to put our affairs at the
Lakes on a more respectable footing than they have
ever been since the days of poor Montgomery, cer-
tainly there has been great mismanagement in that de-
partment and I hud some people attributing this to
a source I never should have suspected, is it possil)le
that a man who writes so well &> expresses such anx-
iety for the Cause of his Country as Gen\ S r does,
I say is it possible that he can be sacrificing the Inter-
est of that Country to his Ambition or Avarice. I sin-
cerely hope it is not so, but such insinuations are
dropped. I beg leave to recommend Major Wood to
your Patronage you'l find him a l)old intrepid ofiicer
& as Lt. Col°. Allen has resigned, I shall push for the
Major to have that vacancy.
You'l be pleased with Lee's success at Carolina the
Enemy were maul'd greatly and 1 think the i-epulse
disgraces them, consequently reflects great honor on
our People.
You are no doul)t well informed of what passes
at New York <fe as I have full employm* for my -whole
time I shall only assure you of the esteem ajid regard
with which I am D"" Sir,
Your affectionate h''^^ Servant,
Rob'^ Moreis.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July y^ 2G*^ 17 70.
Dear Sir,
It was always my opinion (as I dare say it was
yours) that it is of the last importance to insure the
THE LEE PAPERS. 171
success of tlie first expedition against y° Indians on this
principle. I think it prudent to form a Corps de re-
serve to prevent tlie dreadful consequences of a defeat,
shou'd such be the fate of your army marching against
them ; Mr. Obenion is of opinion that this army is not
quite sufiicient for the two purposes of attacking and
defending the Frontiers — You had l^etter question kim
minutely on tke subject — -if your Excellency approves
of it, I will immediately order a body of Continentals
to Prince's Fort or any other station "which shall be
tkought the most judicious.
I am Sir,
Yours
Charles Lee.
To The Pj'esident.
FRo:\r Archibald Bullock.
Savannah, July 26*^^ 1776.
SlE,
I really must make an apology for taking off so
much of your Excellency's Attention from the lousiness
of the United Colonies, by the frequency of my Epistles ;
Ijut I ho]:)e you will consider it, as arising fi'om a desire
of communicating to you, whatever appears necessary to
be known for the good of the common cause. I gave
you p. favor of Lieutenant Seixas some information,
respecting the Ships of War appearing off our Coast. I
received the Intelligence, as I thought, from the best
Authority tfe embraced the first opportunity of writing
to you — however from the Examination of sundry Per-
sons since, I find we have nothing to appreliend from
this invincible Armada, tfc that they are not as yet at
Cockspar. The accounts I have just received of the
Outrages of the Indians are very disagreeable, yet I
think with tke Assistance of the Battalion you are
going to send us, we shall do extremely well.
I have sent tkis by my friend M"" Byrd wko was
172 THE LEE PAPERS.
going to Charlestown, and who will give yon tlie News
of this Province. I am Sir,
Your most obedient and very lible Sert.
Arch° Bullock.
His Excellency Genl. Lee, at Charlestown
fav'^ by the hon"^'' John Bryan, Esq.
To Pkesident Rutledge.
July y^ 27th, 1776.
Deae Sir,
As the affair of taking the Brigg was in my appre-
hension not a naval l^ut rather an army or at least a
conjunct operation, and as she was burn'd contrary to
the orders of General Armstrong under whose com-
mand and ausj)ices tlie Commanding officer of the Float
ing Battery certainly acted, I conceiv'd it wouVl be pro-
per that a Court of inquiry compos'd of officers of the
line, shou'd examine previously to a Court Martial into
the cause of the Vessels being thus destroy'd contrary
to the General Order — if the guilt lay with the Navy
officer I shou'd then have prosecuted him at the proper
tribunal Navy Court Martini — A Court of Inquir}^ pro-
nounces no sentence, l:)ut only finds that there is suffi-
cient cause, or is not sufficient cause for a Court Mar-
tial — so that upon the whole I can see nothing unfair
in wishing for or proposing this mode of proceeding —
for my own part I am extremely well satisfy'd what-
ever mode is adopted — my only motive for troul^ling
you on the subject was to prevent the jealousies (whe-
ther reasonable or unreasonable) which I thought I
couVl perceive brewing in some of the Officers l)reasts.
I wrote a line last night by M" 01)enion expressing
my opinion that it wou'd be prudent to form a Corps
de reserve on or near the Cherokee Line — but you have
not favoured me with an answer. I wish you Avou'd
think on the subject that we may without loss of time
THE LEE PAPERS. 173
arrange measures relative to the project ; and am D"
Sir,
Yours
Charles Lee.
Colonel Bullitt grossly mistook my meaning if lie
gave your Excellency the least room to think that I
wish'd or propos'd to bring a Navy Officer to a Court
Martial of land officers — such an idea never enter'd my
head — not when I mention'd a Court of Inquiry of Offi-
cers of the line, did I mean to exclude the Navy Offi-
cers from a seat in this Court of Inquiry — the operation
as I observed was conjunct — the Court of Inquiry might
of course with propri^ety have been conjunct.
To Peesident Rutledge.
Charlestown, 27'^ July 1776.
Dear Sir,
InclosVl I send you Uvo Letters, from Governor
Bullock, and Col. M'^Intosh — I am much concern'd that
I cou'd not obtain your Excellency's and the Council's
concurrence with my scheme of detaching a number of
your Pro\dncials equal to a Battalion into Georgia — I
have order'd all the North Caroliners and Colonel Hu-
gers Regiment under the command of General Howe
to march with all possible expedition to Purisl^ourg — I
must entreat your Excellency to order the i^roper offi-
cers to press waggons for Hugers Regiment and two
ton of powder.
You will oblige me when you have read the Letters,
if you will retui'u 'em.
I am Dear Sir,
Your most ob* humble Servt
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency the President.
174 THE LEE PAPERS.
To Peesident Kutledge,
Cliarlestown 27*^"^ July 1776.
Sir,
As iu all probability I shall soon depart from the
Province, I think it my duty to submit to the consider-
ation of your Excellency and the Council some measures
which I think necessary for the safety of the Province,
and consequently for the common interest of the United
Colonies.
l""* As there is great reason to think that tlie Enemy
will make another attempt on Charlestown, altho' prob-
ably not before winter — a magazine shou'd be estab-
lish'd somewhere not very distant from the Town, for
the subsistence of at least six thousand men for three
months, l)ut I wou'd recommend it for ten thousand
men — the necessary articles are Flour, some rice, salt
provisions, rum or whiskey and straw, witli a great
number of boards which may serve either as flooring or
as Tents.
2"fiiy I wou'd projDOse that Commissaries shou'd
be immediately employ'd on or near the South Georgia
Line to purchase a sufiicient number cf Cattle for the
establishment of this magazine — it will answer a double
good purpose ; the cattle will be cheaper, and the Ene-
my will be de])rived of one of the means of subsistence
— a Corps of Troops must be employ'd to protect the
Commissaries in the collection of the cattle, and which
may at the same time serve to dislodge the Enemy from
the Post they have taken on S* Mary's.
3'"^ To construct and equip as ex2:)editiously as possi-
ble a nunil)er of I'ow gallies and other small vessels for
the protection of the harl)our and the coast.
^thiy rji^ p^gg j-^^ time in finishins: the works as laid
down by the Engineer in Sullivan's Island. I am Sir,
With the greatest respect
Your most ol)* humble Serv*
CuAKLEs Lee.
To His Excellency The President.
THE LEE PAPERS. 175
To President Rutledge.
Cliarlestowu y° 28'*' July 1776.
Dear Sir,
I sbouVl be very glad to Lave your Excellency's ()])iii-
ioii on the subject I proi)osed — I mean forming a Cor23s
de reserve near or on the Cherokee Line — no time sliou'd
be lost — Muhlenberg's Regiment is ready for a march
— the Quartermaster General shou'd be authorized to
press a very considerable number of Waggons and im-
mediately — fifty will not be too many^ — •
I am Dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency the President.
To Benjamin Harrison,
Chaiiestown July y'^ 28'*^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
The Army here and in North Carolina are in the
greatest distress fi'om want of Continental currency — I
must request therefore that you Avill without delay
furnish us with an hundred thousand Dollars, if you
have that sum in y'" hands — if you have not, that you
will endeavour to jn'ocure it. I am inform'd that the
Troops in Virginia have been on the brink of mutiny
and general desertion from a discontent from not being
regularly j^aid — I cou'd wish (if it were possible)
always to have the Army three months in arrears — -but
every point must yield to a general clamor — I therefore
entreat that for the future they may be more regularly
paid.
I am Dear Sir,
Your most Obedient Serv'
Charles Lee.
To Benjamin Harrison, Esq"
Paymaster General of the Southern District.
176 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, July 29*^ 1776. ;
Dear Sir,
Wherever we have Troops we should have Waggons ;
it was certainly therefore a great oversight in your
Wa2:2:ou Master General, not to retain a certain num-
ber of 'em. We are now in a very awkward situation
— it is not indeed impossible that some time or other a
whole Province may be lost by such an omission. An
Army which cannot march in twenty four hours is no
Army — I must entreat your Excellency to hasten the
people employ'd to j)ress Waggons, for the powder is
now lying expos'd to accidents of various sorts.
L* Medici of the Light Horse will deliver this note ;
it is necessary that the officers of this Corps, when de-
tach'd (as they have no money for the purpose) shouVl
be furnished with an Order upon the Inhabitants where
they pass for forage— They must give receipts — I beg
your Excellency will furnish them with such an Order.
As I am writing to Virginia by ex]3ress, I shou'd be
glad to have it in my power to inform 'em of what
steps are taken for the most regular establishments of
Posts — Will your Excellency and the Council point
out the best method, and I Avill communicate the plan
to North Carolina that they may do their part.
I wish you joy of the powder arriv'd and am D""
Sir, Yours
Charles Lee.
His Excellency the President.
Shou'd not some Divers make another attempt to
iish up the muskets which these Rascals threw over
board ?
THE LEE PAPERS. 177
To Gov, Patrick Hei^ry.
Charlestown, July 29*^ 1770.
Dear Sir,
I usVl to regret not being thrown into the AYorhl in
the glorious third or foui-th century of the Komans ;
but now I am thorouglily reconcil'd to my lot : the re-
veries which have frequently for a while serv'd to
tickle my imagination (but which when awaked from my
trance as constantly I consider'd as mere golden castles
built in the air) at length bid fair for being realiz'd.
We shall now, most probably, see a mighty empire
establish'd of Freemen whose honour, property and mili-
tary glories are not to be at the disposal of a scepter'd
knave, thief, fool, or Coward ; nor their consciences to
be fetter'd by a proud domineering Hierarchy — every
faculty of the soul will now be put in motion — no
merit can lye latent ; the highest officers of the State
both civil and military will now be obtain'd without
court favour, or the rascally talents of ser^dlity and
observance by which Court favour cou'd alone be ac-
quir'd — sense, valour, and industry, will conduct us to
the goal ; every spark of ability ^vhich every individual
possesses, will now be brought forth and form the com-
mon aggregate for the advantage and honor of the
Community — the operations of war will be directed by
men qualified for war, and carried on with that energy
natural to a young People — true unartiz'd knowledge,
unsophisticated learning, simple genuine eloquence and
poetry will be carried to the highest degree of perfec-
tion — this to many, I am sensible, wou'd appear rant,
but to you, who, I think, have congenial feelings with
my own, it needs no apology — however, I shall now
endeavour to deliver myself more like a man of this
world.
I most sincerely congratulate you on the noble con-
duct of your Countrymen, and I congratulate vour
Country on having Citizens deserving of the high honor
YoL. 11.-12
178 THE LEE PAPERS.
to wliicli you are exalted, for the being elected to
tlie first Magistracy of a free People is certainly the
pinnacle of human glory, and am perswaded (altho Vir-
ginia is so well stock'd with excellent citizens) that
they cou'd not have made a happier choice.
Will you excuse me, but I am myself so extremely
democratical that I think it a fault in your Constitu-
tion that the Governor shou'd be eligible for three years
successively ; it appears to me that a Government of
three years, may furnish an opportunity of acquiring a
very dangerous influence — but this is not the worst ;
Tacitus says, plura peccantur, dum demereiyiur^ quam
duiii offe7idimus — a man who is fond of office and has
his eye upon re-election, will be courting favour and
popularity at the expense of his duty — He will give
way to the popular humours of the day, let 'em be
ever so pernicious — in short, his administration will l;)e
relax'd in general or partial to those whom he con-
ceives to have the greatest interest : Whereas, were all
hopes of re-election precluded 'till after the interven-
tion of a certain number of years, he wou'd endeavour
to illustrate the year of- his Government by a strict
rigorous and manly performance of his duty— these
notions may perhaj)s be weak and foolish, but such as
they are, I am sure you will excuse my uttering 'em.
There is a Barbarism crept in amongst us that ex-
tremely shocks me. I mean those tinsel epithets with
which (I come in for my share) We are so beplais-
ter'd — His Excellency and His Honour, The Honour-
able President of the Honourable Congress, or the
Honourable Convention — this fulsome nauseatins: cant
may be well enough ada2:)ted to l)arbarous monai'chies ;
or to gratify the adulterated j)ride of the Magnifici in
jiomj^tous Aristocracies, but in a great free manly equal
Commonwealth it is quite abominable — for my own
part, I wou'd as lief they wou'd put rats-bane in my
mouth as the Excellency Avith which I am daily
cranun'd — how much more true dignity was there in
the simplicity of address amongst the Romans — Mar-
THE LEE PAPERS. 179
ciis Tulliiis Cicero, Decimo Briito Imperatori, or Caio
Marcello Coiisuli Des. ; tlian To His Excellency Major
General Noodle, or To tlie Honourable John Doo'lle —
my objections are perhaps trivial and whimsical, ])nt
for my soul, I cannot help starting 'em — if therefore, I
shoii'd sometimes address a letter to you without the
Excellenc}^ attach'd, you must not esteem it a mark of
personal or official disrespect, hut the reverse.
The discontent of the Troops which you mention as
arising from the want of regular payment, might have
been remedied by General Lewis, his warrant is un-
doubtedly sufficient for the Paymaster — however, I have
written to that gentleman on this subject, and am in
hopes that affairs for the future might ])e more satis-
factorily conducted.
An old Kice boat which we converted the other day
into a row Battery has made a consideral)le prize — no
less than a brig with a whole Company of the Royal
Highland Emigrants on board, consisting of two officers
and fifty men — the Rascals altho' they saw that they
Avere inevitably our prize had the impudence to throw
their arms overboard, for which they ought to have
their ears cut off, as it was contrary to all the rules of
War.
I send you inclosed the State of the Enemy's Navy
— I think" there is no doubt of their Army having
steer'd their course Northward — on this presumption I
shall direct my course towards Virginia, but first must
assist to regulate the military affairs of this Province in
the 1)est manner I can, tho' in fact that will be doing
little, the inconveniences of this complex play we are
acting of Duke and No Duke are numberless and great
— the President is thought by some to be the real Com-
mander, I am thought so ])y others — in short, there
must be no Troops but Continental — the Council is at
present emj^loy'd in settling a more regular Post.
We have received none these eighteen days — for
my own part, I conclude the mail has been intercepted
and carried on board the Man of War — Seven ton and
180 THE LEE PAPERS.
a half of powder Avere safely landed four days ago at
Georgetown.
Adieu, D" Sir, and believe me to be most entirely
and sincerely
Yours
To Patrick Henry Jun'' Charles Lee.
Governor of Virginia.
To President Eutledge.
Cliarlestown, July SO*'^ 1770.
Dear Sir,
As I hope and suppose that the Council is de-
termin'd to establish a magazine, it wou'd be proper to
furnish Colonel Kennon witli a sufficient quantity of
salt for the purpose. Your Excellency A\all therefore
much oblige me in giving Orders to supply him.
I am Dear Sir, &°
Charles Lee.
To The President.
To Colonel Moultrie.
July the 30th, 1776.
Dear Col.
Mr. Ferguson informs me, that he has furnished you
with two hundred pair of negroe shoes : As a party is
ordered on immediate service, I flatter myself you will
have the kindness to spare them for the poor devils,
who have so long a march before them, and are quite
unshod : You will have time enough to replace them ;
I therefore request that you will slie^v your charity on
this occasion — and am
Dear Colonel, Yours
Charles Lee.
To Col. Moultrie.
the lee papers. 181
Petition, Etc.
[July 31, 177G.]
To His Excellency General Lee, Commander-in-chief,
ifec : The Petition of the Inhabitants of the Parish
of S* George, and St. Paul, including the ceded
lands in the Province of Georgia, most humbly
sheweth :
That your petitioners living on the frontiers of the
AVestern parts of the Province of Georgia aforesaid, are
much exposed to the barl^arous attacks of the Creek
Indians, and more especially from the intercourse which
necessarily must subsist between them and the Indian
traders, whilst an Indian trade is carried on, as it tends
to bring those savages down into the settlements, and
they seldom return without either committing murder or
robbery, and generally both, upon the white people.
That this trade is of the utmost prejudice to your
petitioners, and the rest of the Province, excej)ting only
a few men immediately concerned in it. And we
^rould further represent to your Excellency, that at the
treaty held l^etween Sir James Wright, Bart., and John
Stuart, Esq, on behalf of George the Third, and the
Headmen and Warriors of the same nation, in the year
1774, the Indian traders, from self interested views,
then recommended it to the said Sir James Wright and
John Stuart to reject a certain offer made to them by
the said Headmen and AVarriors of a most valuable
cession of a tract of land lying or being on Oconee
Piver, being a fork of the Alatamaha, and by nature
formed for the benefit and advantage of the inhabitants,
in giving them an opportunity of sending and exporting
their produce to market. And your petitioners can
with truth assure your Excellency, that if the Indian
trade was banished, it would be not only the means of
restoring peace and tranquility to this back country.
182 THE LEE PAPEES.
but likewise would encourage people to come and settle
therein. That your petitioners submit to your Excel-
lency's wise consideration how far prudent it might be
to make an attempt to exterminate and rout those sa-
vages out of their nation, as it appears to your petition-
ers that a sufficient force might (with your Excellency's
Assistance) now be raised against them ; and in such
case your petitioners will be ready, at the hazard of
their lives and fortunes, to unite together for so de-
sirable a purpose. May it, therefore, please your Ex-
cellency to take the premises into mature deliberation,
and to grant such relief to your petitioners as your Ex-
cellency may think most proper. And your petitioners
wall ever pray.
To General James Mooee.
Charlestown July 31^* 1776.
Deae Geneeal,
You will oblige me extremely in consenting to the
re-establishment of U Quinn I dare say from the man-
ner of the man, that his misconduct must alone be
ascribed to error, not to intention— if you consent, and
I hope you will, and there is a vacancy in Colonel
Bunkham's Regiment, he is desirous of being in it, and
I understand that the Colonel is not averse^ — on this
presumption, I enclose an order for his re-estal)lish-
ment.
I entreat. General, that you will provide all the
North Carolina Troops with havresacks as soon as
possible — inclosed is the State of the Enemy's Fleet —
pei'haps en passa/it They ^vill pay you a visit — You
must therefore be on your guard.
I am D" General, Yours,
Ciiaeles Lee»
P. S. I wish you wou'd intreat the Council in my
THE LEE PAPERS. 183
name to have always in readiness an Exj^ress Man and
Horse at Wilmington — anotiier at Newbern and a third
at Edenton; for tlie consequences of the irregularity
and delays of the Post may be terrible.
To Brig. Gen. Moore, at Wilmington.
Feom Colonel Peter Muhlenberg.
July 31^* 1776.
Sir,
I am very anxious to have the affair I mentioned to
your Excellency this morning, settled some way or
other, before We leave this place, as it may otherwise
perhaps, create confusion on the march — All the Con-
tinental Troops in this place have hitherto taken rank
of my officers, because they have no commissions to
produce & suffer them to Rank only as Provincials.
Since I mentioned this affair to your Excellency, I
have received another letter from Williamsburg, which
mentions that the Convention had apply'd to the
General Congress to take the 7* S^^ & d^^ Regiments
on the Continental Establishment — That the answer
was, it could not be done immediately, but when those
Regiments were completely maun'd & arm'd they might
be taken. That the Convention had retained those
three Regiments in their Service, <fe in consequence of
this, the 7*^ Sl 9*^ Reg*' had receiv'd Provincial Pay to
the 25*^ of June. As this is the Case, I must beg leave
to say, that I should use myself ill, were I to accept a
Continental Commission after this date, when other
Regiments, raised long after mine, would take rank be-
fore me ; I should prefer being oldest Provincial Officer
before the youngest Continental. I can assure your
Excellency nothing should have prompted me to men-
tion this, did I not conceive that my Regiment had Ijeen
slighted in some res2:)ects — perhaps of all the Virginia
184 THE LEE PAPERS.
Col"^ my Connexions, and Fortune are smallest, but ac-
cording to my al;)ilities I have sacrificed perhaps as
much as they. I have cheerfully given up a salary of
£350, &, during my stay in this place my wages are
scarce half suthcient to defray my necessary Expenses.
I shall not trouble your Excellency any further, only
request that the Kank of the Kegiment may be settled
before we go, if possible.
Your Excellency s most obt. hble Servant,
Peter Muhlenberg.
His Excellency General Lee.
From General Armstrong.
Camp at Haddrells July 1776.
Dear General,
I ask your j^ardon in not yesterday answering your
last favour, nor did anything j^revent but the apprehen-
sions I had of being early favoured with another inter-
view at Greenwich.
I thank you for your friendly regard to my health
and polite liberty with respect to residence & Exercise.
I hope God will prepare and direct yours for your own
<fe the publick good — the j^i'esent era brings to view the
old Romans and Lacedemonians, but South Carolina
presents rather the Athenian Image.
I have revolved all the hints you threw out to me
of my oT\'n stay here over <fe over, and altho' tis a kind
of maxim that a soldier must not think, yet is thinking
half the design of his creation, and the human mind
some have defined a thinking substance.
Now dear General pei'mit me to say that G^ Howe
has a thousand qualifications for this meridian ct not a
foible known to me that will preponderate the opposite
scale, and he is alAe to wash off all the dryness inciden-
tal as it Avas, Avith half a dozen of Madeii'a, or a single
dance with the ladies will shake it off as we do the dust
THE LEE, PAPERS. 185
from our feet. But on tlie part of tlie Brigadier I am
now serious. Can lie wisli a more respectable Com-
mand ? It is so, from Local circumstances or in its own
nature, 'tis additionally so from tlie talents it requires,
and I think Howe a genius amongst our American best.
I ^\dsli you liked Lis paying a visit to liis N" Carolina
friends for a few weeks if lie cliuses, then return liere and
take the command, when I may follow you for farther
orders. What you have said of one Reg* here, or now
drafts are going, part of l)oth is perfectly right. The
officers in the yellow House, The men in the Barn and
best of the Hutts — but I lio2:>e to-morrow or next day
will luring you here — for I have not said the half on
anything, please to sj)eiid a thought on the criminal sen-
tenced to die.
Poor Thompson & Irwin, what shall be done for
them ? I congratulate you on the fate of Duumore,
and y'" letter ajid paj^ers has much obliged y'' devoted
hble Serv*
John Armstrong.
General Lee.
To Colonel Muhlenberg.
Charlestown, August 1'* 1776.
Dear Colonel,
What the Continental Congress can mean (if ever
they so ex23ress'd themselves) by not taking your Regi-
ment and the others on their establishment until they are
compleat, is above my conception — if they mean that it
was to have its full comj^lement to a nian, or that it
shou'd be compleat enough for service, I am at a loss —
if they meant the former, it was almost impossible that
these Regiments shou'd. ever be on their establish-
ment — if they meant the latter, your Regiment certainly
must have the precedency over all the Regiments on
the Continent — in all the services I am acquainted with,
new le\des are establish'd and take rank from the time
186 TIIE LEE PAPERS.
two tliircls of their Regiments is rais'cl. Tliey are then
supposed on emergencies to be fit for service — on every
principle your Regiment must be considered as Conti-
nental, at least from tlie time you were ordered to
marcli out of the Province. You were ordered not be-
cause I was better acquainted with your Regiment than
the rest — but because you were the most compleat, the
best arm'd, and in all respects the best furnish'd for
service — You may depend therefore when the Congress
is inform'd of the Circumstances, your Rank will not
be disj)uted — the fact is that the Congress having no
military Men in their Body are continually confound-
ing themselves and every body else in military mat-
ters — however to do 'em justice they will bear being
corrected with candour & patience — there is now a
Board of War establish'd, so we have reason to flatter
ourselves that things will go on with somewhat less
confusion. I shall write immediately on the subject if
it is necessary for your satisfaction and that of your
Officers but think you need be in no pain al)out it. I
find Colonel Sumner's is in the same predicament with
yourself — I wish you wou'd inform me which Regiment
was first embodied by order of its respective Conven-
tion as I apprehend your Rank must be settled accord-
ingly.
I am D"" Colonel, Yours,
Charles Lee.
Colonel Muhlenberg.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown August 1'' 1776.
Dear Sir,
The plan for breaking intirely up the Province of
East Florida a2)pears to me not only a wise one but in-
dispensal)le for the safety of Georgia — the success will
likewise make a most salutary imi^ression on the minds
THE LEE PAPERS. 187
of tlie Creeks — wliicli is an object of tlie liigliest con-
sideration.
The Governor of Georgia tfe Colonel Mclntosli are
of oi)inion that not less than a thousand men added to
what force they have themselves will be requisite for
the execution of the plan — but that this number Avill
suifice — I can upon the whole muster for this occasion
about six hundred including Mughlenburg's — but if it
were ])ossible to form the number wanted of your Pro-
vincials and militia it ^vou'd in my opinion be more for
the service of this Province and for the common cause
to send Mughlenburg's along with Sumpters to the
other Frontiers to form a second line or Corps de re-
serve to the Army march'd or marching against the
Cherokees — I shou'd think this East Florida Expedi-
tion wou'd suit the taste of your Militia — as they will
have a chance of emiching: themselves — There is nothino;
in the meantime to l^e apprehended for this Capital —
Clinton will not return l)efore Winter. I have myself
thoughts of setting out for Georgia the day after to-
morrow to arrange all matters relative to the projected
expedition.
I am Dear Sir, Yours,
Chaeles Lee.
To His Excellency the President.
To RiciiAED Peters.
Charlesto^^Ti, August 2^ 1776.
Sir,
I 's^'ish I had been informed how I am to address
myself in writing to the Board of War, whether to the
Board in general, to the first member on the List, or to
the Secretary. I have ventured on the last mode, if it is
wrong, I hope I shall be excus'd and corrected.
The irregularity and tardiness of the Post are now
become a matter of very serious concern : AVe never re-
188 THE LEE PAPERS.
ceive a letter from Pliiladelpliia in less than six or seven
weeks, that from the members of the Board of War
and Ordnance is only just now arrived tho' dated the
12*'^ of June — I have been pressed by several members
of the Convention of Virginia to establish a Post for
this district, l:)ut am apprehensive that it might inter-
fere with the Continental Post ; however, the conse-
quences arising from the irregularity of the Post are so
very serious that all other considerations must be waved
— in the meantime I am constrain'd to the necessity of
l^utting the Cortinent to the expense of an express
almost on every occasion.
I am extremely rejoic'd at the establishment of a
Board of War ; for the business of Congress was so
complex and heterogeneous that it was impossible they
shou'd give the necessary attention to the affairs of
any one distinct department — their Regulations with
respect to Returns &° shall be punctually observed.
I have ordered General Armstrong to collect the
Eeturns from the different Corps, to digest 'em into one,
and transmit 'em immediately to the Congress.
I am myself Ijusyed in arranging matters for an ex-
]3edition into East Florida.
It is much to be lamented that these Southern Colo-
nies suffer'd the whole last Winter to pass over their
heads without preparing the means either of offence or
defence — not a single row galley or armed Boat was
furuish'd forth by Vii'ginia, North or South Carolina :
were Ave provided with a moderate fleet of these sort of
vessels, I think I cou'd ensure the reduction of East
Florida — an object which tho' not equal with Canada,
is certainly of very great importance^here the nefari-
ous measures of the Tyrants Agents ^v^^ the Southern
Indians are concerted and ])lann'd — their treaties nego-
tiated and concluded — here they receive their bribes
for their murderous operations, and from hence they
are supplied with all the means and instruments of
War ; from hence they have lately made some alarm-
ing incursions into Georgia, carried off considerable
THE LEE PAPERS. 189
number of Negroes and not less tlian two thousand
liead of cattle : tliey have likewise thrown uj) a Post
on the River S* Mary's ^vllich if sutfer'd to remain may
prove extremely troublesome to Georgia, by affording
a ready asylum to Negro Deserters — from these con-
siderations, altho' I caimot think of laying siege to
Augustine, having neither boats, horses, waggons, nor
any other means of conveying Cannon, ammunition or
provisions for the purpose — I think it both a prudent
and necessaiy measure to attempt breaking up the
whole Province of East Florida — it will be a security
to Georgia, occasion infinite distress to the Garrison of
S' Augustine, but above all, make a salutary impres
sion on the minds of the Creeks who now are thought
to stand wavering — They profess a good disposition to-
wards the American cause, but if by a strong predatory
expedition into the Province of the Enemy we give an
idea of our prowess and superior strength they will be
riveted in our interest. If I was sure M"" Clinton and
his army had steerd their course to New York as the
Deserters all agree, and a Letter which was left in
Long Island confirms (a copy of which is here enclos'd)
I sliou'd as I have nothing immediately else to do in
my district, march in person with this party ; but the
bare possibility of his being gone to Virginia ^vill de-
tain me.
Every ship of the Enemy has now repass'd the Bar
— it appears by this same inclos'd Letter, that they
were more roughly handled than even the Deserters
represented.
The Congress I make no doul)t have been inform'd
of the incursions made and the ravages committed by
the upper and lower Cherokees — an expedition I under-
stand is furnish'd forth by Virginia against the Upper
Nations — another by this Province against the lower —
the success or miscarriage is of the last consequence. I
am therefore desirous of forming a second line or corps
de reserve and detaching for this purpose a Regiment of
Regulars, but have not as yet been able to procure
190 THE LEE PAPERS.
waggons sufficient for two companies — It will he neces-
sary that Congress sliou'd make some regular establish-
ment for waggons — I shou'd think one Waggon at least
if not two shou'd be purchas'd and appointed to each
Company of the whole Army and Regiments made
responsible for theirs respectively. We shouVl then be
able to march when occasion requires expedition, at
present it is sometimes as much impossible to march an
hundred miles, altho' the fate of a Province depended
upon it, as if the soldiers wanted legs.
I hope the Congress and Board of War will excuse
my giving an opinion on a subject on which it has not
been ask'd, but I conceiv'd it to be my duty not to
remain silent on any affairs of such moment.
I find Sir, that representations have been made that
many inconveniences wou'd arise from putting the
Troops of this Province on the Continental Establish-
ment. I can assure the Congress that it is almost
impossible to carry on the service if they remain on the
Colonial Establishment, the difference of the Laws, the
distinction of the ranks occasion much confusion — and
the ridiculous farce of Duke and No Duke we are play-
ing, (the officers not always comprehending who is their
proper Commander, whether the President or Conti-
nental General) occasions very dangerous distractions,
but there are other matters of more serious considera-
tion, of which I shall not troul)le you with a detail;
nor do I find that the officers of this Province object to
a Continental Establishment, on the contrary, all those I
have convers'd with, seem desirous of it — upon the
whole, I think it absolutely essential to the puljlic Ser-
vice that these Regiments shou d immediately be put
on the same footing and govern'd by the same la^vs
■with the rest, nor am I singular in opinion — the two
Brigadiers — all the officers of every rank and tlie greater
part of the gentlemen of the Country concur with me.
Colonel Muo^hlenburc: of the 8"' Battalion of Vir-
ginians has been made very uneasy by some letters He
has lately receiv'd ^vith I'espect to the rank of his Regi-
THE LEE PAPERS. 191
ment — these Letters intimate tliat it was never the
intention of the Congress to consider the seveutli,eiglitli,
and ninth Battalions of the Virginians on the Con-
tinental Establishment until they were entirely eom-
pleat — that his Regiment never was intirely eom])leat,
and that consequently after having so long thought
himself on the Continental Establishment, and on this
presumption having march'd five hundred miles from
his own province under the Command of a Continental
General, he now at last finds himself only a Provincial
officer. I have veutur'd to assure him and his officers
who are ecpially uneasy that there must l)e some mis-
take in this affair — in fact, the hardship wou'd he so
great that I cannot believe their apprehensions are well
founded — it was (if I rememl )er right) notify'd in April
by the Committee of Safety in Virginia that they were
then taken upon the Continental Establishment, and
(tlio' in this I may be mistaken) without the proviso of
their being compleat. It happen'd at this time tho' not
compleat to a man (for no Regiment ever is compleat
to a man) that Mughlenburgh's Regiment was not only
the most compleat of the Province, but I believe of the
whole Continent — ^it was not only the most compleat in
Numbers, but the best arm'd cloth'd, and ecpiip'd in all
respects for immediate Service — I must repeat that I
cannot conceive it was ever the intention of Congress
that the establishment shou'd be fill'd to a man, but
that they shou'd be competent to service in or out of
their Province— in most services when new levies are
rais'd one half of the projiosVl complement entitles 'em
to establishment — Muo-hlenbers^'s Res^iment Avanted only
forty at most — it was the strength and good condition
of the Re£ciment that induc'd me to order it out of its
own Province in preference to any other — I certainly
consider'd 'em at that time as Continental Troops other-
wise I cou'd have no authority to order 'em out of the
Province.
I must now submit it to the consideration of the
Congi-ess if it wou'd not really be the greatest cruelty
192 THE LEE PAPEES.
tliat their strength and good condition shou'd be
turn'd against 'em— it was their strength and good
condition Avhich carried 'em out of theii" Province
where had tliey remain'd and kuoA\ai that it was a
necessary condition of their establishment to be corn-
pleat to a man, they certainly coii'd have accomplish'd
it in three days — I do therefore most sincerely hope
and confidently perswade myself that Mughlenbergs
Regiment will at least date their Rank from the day I
order'd 'em to march out of their Province, not only
justice but policy requires it, for you will otherwise
lose a most excellent Reo^iment.
I often represented to Congress how difficult or im-
possil)le it wou'd be to engage or retain after they were
engaged any Engineers of tolerable qualification on the
wretch'd pay established — The two appointed to my
district have (as I expected) quitted the service —
it was indeed impossible for 'em to exist. Stadler I
hear has enter'd into the service of Virginia — -Massen-
burg is retain'd by this Province at fifty four Dollars
p. month, a servant, rations, and his travelling expenses
— He formally begg'd his dismission from me, assur'd
me (and I believe sincerely) he was zealous in the
cause of America, that he wou'd willingly (if I chose
it) enlist as a common soldier, but that to ride about
the Continent from North to South, find horses, and
appear like a gentleman was impossible. I cou'd not
in conscience force him to starve, so consented to his
eno-ao-ino; in this service — I am now without a sino^le
Engineer, and really know not how to carry on the bu-
syness — I hope the Board will consider the necessity of
supplying me.
I shall now. Sir, conclude with assuring 'em that I
am with greatest respect, their most obedient humble
servant
Charles Lee.
P. S. The most material event that has happen'd
since I last did myself the honour qf writing to the
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 103
Congress, is that, witli an Old Rice Boat converted into
a Row Battery we made prize of a Transport Brig with
a compleat comp"* of Royal Highland Emigrants, consist-
ing of two officers and fifty two Privates — the Captain
only escaj^'d. They threw their arms overboard, for
Avhich they deserve to lose their ears — seven other Pris-
oners were taken in a boat.
If the Congress take into their pay and immediate
service any of the Maryland Troops, I beg leave to
recommend to their Patronage M" Daniel Jenifer of
that Province, who is now with me in the character of a
supernumerary Aid de Camp — He is a man of spirit,
zeal, activity, and sense, and there is certainly no small
degree of merit in a gentleman of his age, settled way
of living, and connections — to offer himself and serve as
a Volunteer in a part of the world so remote from his
home and generally thought favourable to few Consti-
tutions.
The writing busyness of our Deputy Adjutant Gen-
eral is so heavy that he has represented the necessity
of an Assistant. He cannot procure one tolerably
qualified for less than twenty Dollars p. month. I have
told him that I had no power to grant any allowance,
but as we cannot do without such an aid, I have ven-
tur'd to order the Paymaster General to pay this sum
in hopes the Congress will aj)j)rove it, if it is not ap-
proved of the Adjutant General (tho' he can ill afford
it) consents it shou'd fall upon himself.
To Richard Peters, Esq''
Secretary to the Board of War and Ordnance.
Vol. II.— 13
194 the lee papers.
William Falconer to Anthony Falconer.
[Inclosed in the preceding letter 7\
Camp Long-Island, July 13tli, 1776.
Dear Brother,
With the greatest difficulty I have procured this
small piece of paper to inform you of my being very
well, notwithstanding the miserable situation we are in.
We have been encamped on this Island for this
month past, and have lived on nothing else but salt
pork and pease. We sleep upon the sea shore, nothing
to shelter us from the violent rains, but our coats or
miseral>le paltry l^lankets. There is nothing that grows
upon this Island, it being a mere sand bank, and a few
bushes which harbours millions of musketoes, a greater
plague than there can be in Hell itself.
By this sloop-of-war you will have an account of an
action which happened on the 28tli June, l)etween the
ships and the fort on Sullivan's Island. The cannon-
ade continued for about nine hours, and was perhaps
one of the briskest known in the annals of war ; we
had two fifty gun ships, and five frigates from 24 to
30 guns playing on the fort, I may say without success,
for they did the battery no manner of damage, and
killed 15, and wounded betwixt 40 and 50. Our ships
are in the most mangled situation you can conceive.
The Acteon, a 30 gun frigate, run aground during the
action, and it was impossible to get her off, we were
obliged to l)urn and blow her up.
Our killed and wounded amounts to betwixt two and
three hundred. Numljers die daily of their wounds.
The Commodore is wounded in t^vo different places.
His Captain lost his left arm, and right hand, and was
wounded in different parts of his body; he lived but
two days after the action. Captain Scott, of the Ex-
periment of fifty guns, died of his wounds, and num-
bers of the other olficers.
THE LEE PAPERS. 105
If the ships could liave silenced the battery, the
army was to have made an attack on the back of the
Island, where they had about 1000 men entrenched up
to their eyes, besides a small battery of four guns, one
eighteen ].)ounder, and three four pounders, all loaded
Avith grape shot, so that they wouhl liave killed half of
us, l>efore we could make our landing good.
We are now expecting to enil)ark for New York, to
join Gen. Howe with the gi-and army. My anxiety to
inform you of bad news, had well nigh made me forget
to mention our passage to Cape Fear, where we arrived
safely the first of May, after a voyage of three months.
Tliough it ^vas long, yet it was not disagreeable after
we got out of the bay of Biscay, where we met with
the worst "weather ever known at sea, and continued in
that situation for sixteen days ; after that time we had
very fine weather all along ; sometimes we were be-
calmed for four or five days together, not going above
ten knots a day. Upon our arrival in Cape Fear we
disembarked ; and were encamped in the woods until
the 27tli of May, when we went on board again, and
sailed for this infernal place. The oldest of the ofiicers,
do not remember of ever undergoing such hardships as
we have done since our arrival here,
I hope you will be so good as to watch every op-
portunity to let me hear from you and Mrs. Falconer,
and at the same time to inform me how I shall do in
case I shall be obliged to purchase my Lieutenancy. I
beg you will make my excuse to my dear "sister for not
writing to her at this time ; it is not owing to want of
affection, but to the want of proper materials. I am
obliged to write on the ground. You will be so good
as to let Capt. Falconer know the same thing. I shall
Avrite again from New York. I am, dear Sir,
Your most affectionate brother,
Willia:\i Falconer.
To the Hon. Anthony Falconer,
at ]\[ontrose, Scotland.
196 THE LEE PA PEES.
To Major White.
Fryday Niglit August 2nd, [1776.]
SiK,
I am extreamly concern'd that there shou'd be so
great difficulty in setting your Corps in motion — I
must I'equest that you will march by break a day — You
are to leave a subaltern and thirty [men] to bring up the
Cattle, Tools, and ammunition — There is one circum-
stance I must recommend most earnestly to you. and
Colonel Sumner, it is to understand one another. You
have distinct Corps it is true, but when you are to-
gether he commands you to all intents and purposes,
and you are to march together till further orders. I
mention this because, I think I see a little too much
propensity to bickering amongst you Gentlemen of N.
Carolina.
I am Sir, Yours
Chaeles Lee.
To Major White.
From Colonel Christopher Gadsden.
Light House Island, 2^^ Aug^ 1776.
Sir,
In consequence of your Excellency's Permission for
a detachm* of my Regiment to come here — after the
Enemy supposed to be at this Post. — I set oif at Sun-
down yesterday from Fort Johnston, w*^ a detachment
of 120 Eank and file of my Regimt., <fc when we were
near the Island were joined by Capt. Stone with 36 of
his company. We landed a])out 10 o'clock last night,
and as soon as we could form (in less than live minutes)
after leaving 35 armed & about sixteen Boatmen to
take care of the Boats, I immediately hasted along the
Beach from one end of the Island to the other and
when I had thoroughly investigated [it I] marched up
TIEE LEE PAPERS. 197
to tlie Liglit House wliicli ^ve found totally deserted, ct
are now in possession of it. I intend to stay till to-
morrow Evening, tfe in the mean Time I Avisli we could
decoy or ]3rovoke the men of war & people to Land —
were they to land all they have and to leave their ships
at anchor without a man on board, I shou'd not doubt
with the honest Fellows 1 have with me with God's
Blessing to give your Excelly. a very good account
of them. We have no pen <k Ink with us — Your Ex-
celly. may depend on everything being done in the
Power of
Your ol)liged Hble Serv*
Christ. Gadsde:n".
P. S. The ships are within a good random [shot] of
a Battery that might be erected on the beach opposite
to them. I believe they intend to go as soon as they
can.
His Excellency Major General Lee,
Cha' Town.
[Upon the foregoing, Tvliicli is in pencil, tlie following is written in ink
— evidently a meniorauclum by General Lee intended for another docu-
ment.]
The aforegoing mode of settling the temporary Bank
of the two Colonels is aj)proved, and settling the rank
of Colonel Mughlenberg tfe Sumner until it can be
ascertained, and it is ordered that they settle it ac-
cordinof.
From General Armstrong.
Camp at Haddrell's 8^ August 1776.
Dear General,
Your orders of the I''* Ins* to settle the Bank of the
Colonels Mecklenljurg tfe Sumner, came to hand yester-
day. I thought to have held the Court at this place
as of this day, but from the situation of the Mem-
198 THE LEE PAPEES.
bers &, partys found it scarcely practical^le &: at least
to liave I'isqnecl an adjournment. I liave therefore ap-
pointed Monday at Ten oclock in Town where I shall
attend if agi'eeable to yon. But shon'd the thing re-
quire greater dispatch, I shall on notice attend by day
or l;)y night. Yesterday <fe this but little better, I have
had a disagreeal)le swdming in my brain or lieadach,
and thought to have thrown it oif by a jant to Long
Island. The Spot about one mile <fe quarter in length
and from 40 to 60 perches wide where the Enemy JEji-
camped is at once, Romantick & Secure, and the ad-
vanced post well enough taken, the latter however Avith
some loss might have been cut oif, had the situation
been early enough known.
Yours Dear General,
Jo HIST AeMSTEONG.
To COLOXEL SUMJSTEE.
Charlestown 'i'^ Aug* 1776.
SlE,
I think you will act prudently in getting jovly
Regiment over Ashley Ferry as soon as possible — as
your men (shou'd tliey be inclin'd to desert) will find
much greater difficulties in accomplishing it — If you are
then not properly equipp'd, you may halt — send l>ack
some intelligent officer to inforai me of your w^ants and
you shall be supjjlied accordingly.
I am Sir, Yours,
To Colonel Sumner. Chaeles Lee.
To COLOT^EL HOEKY.
Charlestown Aug* 3'^ 1776.
Deae Sie,
I am sorry you shouM l)e ])ut to any inconveniency,
but so important a concern as the preservation of the
THE LEE PAPERS. 109
Soldiers suj^ercedes all considerations — I must desire
therefore that you will give u}) Scott's house for the
purpose of a convalescent Hospital — it must l)e done
immediately, which I daresay you will most chearfully
comply with as your good sense and humanity will
convince you of the propriety.
I am !)'■ Sir, Yours,
To Colonel Horry. Charles Lee.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown August 3'' 1776. '
Dear Sir,
It appears to me that your Excellency's Department
and mine are not yet thoroughly ascertain'd and dis-
tinguish'd — I conceive (but I am not positive) that I
have the sole Command of the Troops here l)oth Conti-
nental and Provincial — ^I am just inform'd that a
General Court Martial has been held at the Artillery
Barracks by your Excellency's warrant — I cou'd ^vdsh
before it was open'd and approv'd of that the affair
might l)e clear'd up — I do assure you that I do not
speak from an ambition of extending my authority, l)ut
to prevent confusion in future.
I find that your 1^* 2"^^ 4*^ and 5*^ Regiments are put
on the Continental Establislunent, One of 'em will be
order'd immediately to Georgia, but the Regiment I
shou'd choose which is the 3'"'^ still I'emains on the
Colonial Establishment — this Regiment the most proper
for an Expedition of the nature propos'd, will be the
most improper to garrison a Fort — I wish therefore
matters cou'd be so contrived as to send this on the
expedition, and retain a better qualify'd one for the
Fort.
I am D"" Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency the President.
200 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Eutledge.
Charlestown August 6"^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
Governor Bullock and his Council — Col. M'^Intosli
and Lis Officers are unanimously of opinion that an
expedition into East Florida is necessary for the very
being of Georgia and consequently of the last impor-
tance to the common cause ; that not less than eleven
hundred men added to what force they themselves can
furnish will be adequate to the execution. The whole
number of Continental Troops I can muster fit for duty,
or whose time of service is not near expiring amounts
to six hundred and forty. I must therefore most
earnestly request your Excellency and the Council to
order for this purpose a Corj)s of four liundred and
sixty men, as likewise a Captain, tw^o subalterns, and
thirty privates of the Regiment of Artillery from the
Colonial Troops of Carolina as otherwise this projected
expedition (on which the very existence of a deserving
sister colony, and in the success of which the whole
American Community is so deeply interested) must be
laid aside.
I am, Dear Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee
To The President.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, August G''' 177(3.
Dear Sir,
The arrangement of the Troops, for the projected
expedition, made by your Excellency and the Council,
is, I really think, more judicious than mine — the
species is 1j>etter calculated for the peculiar service than
what I had proposed— I am consequently ]deasVl Avith
it, and shall give orders accordingly : but I can ])y no
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 201
means agree witli your Excellency that tlie 1'" 2"'^ 4'^ tk
5*^ Regiments still remain Colonial — the words of tlie
resolves of Congress on tliis liead will in my opinion
not admit of two constructions ; tlie language is ])lain,
exj^licit, and positive ; tlie clause whicli restricts tlie
Continental General from moving out of the Province
without the Consent of the President and Council more
than one third of the Troops unequivocally empowers
him to move one third without their consent — if there
is any meaning in language, this is the meaning : As to
the letter of the Delegates, I do not see (if it was intel-
ligible) that it wou'd be pertinent — it wou'd only l)e
the comments of men in a private capacity with which
(as Puldic officers) we have nothing to do.
As I do not chuse (in a matter of so delicate a na-
ture) to rest entirely on my o^vn judgment, I thought
proper to call together a Council of the Officers — in-
clos'd is the result of their opinions — at present I shall
trouble your Excellency no more on this sul^ject, but
cannot help expressing my apprehensions that great
confusion and distraction will inevitably be produc'd
from such a jumbled perplex'd system as now seems to
be aimed at. Shou'd your Province have excejitions in
its favor, shou'd the Continental (Tcneral have full au-
thority to move when and where they please the Troops
of the other Provinces, whilst those of South Carolina
who are to be subsisted at the common expense and en-
joy equal rank with the rest, are to remain sacredly
immoveable, unless by order of their own President,
Council, or Assembly, it will occasion infinite discon-
tent not only amongst the Troops but the Legislatures
of the other Colonies — They will naturally ask what
Title has South Carolina to these exemptions and ex-
traordinary priviledges ? another and another will claim
the same, and finally, the whole become one disjointed
scene of anarchy and confusion — but whatever the
Congress shall determine, it is my duty chearfully to
submit to. I shall now conclude with repeating that I
conceive from the words of the Resolves that I have a
202 THE LEE PAPERS.
riglit to move one third of these Troops out of the
Province from my own authority, although I liave for-
tunately no occasion to exert this right at present as I
really think your Excellency's arrangement extremely
judicious, and am D'' Sir Yours
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge.
Opinioists, Etc.
[^Inclosed in the foregoing letter^
Charlestown, August 6, 1776.
His Excellency Major General Lee, having thought
proper to take the sense of Brigadiers-General Arm
strong and Howe, and the Field Officers of the First
Second, Fourth, and Fifth Kegiments of the South-Cai*
olina forces, on a difference of opinion between his Ex
cellency the President and General Lee, on the construe
tion of a resolve of Congress, with respect to the above
Regiments being in the Continental estaljlishment, the
following are the ojDinious of the above gentlemen on
the subject:
Brigadiers General Armstrong and Howe are clearly
of opinion, from the face of the resolves of Congress,
that the above Regiments are on the Continental estab-
lishment.
The other officers, being called upon were as fol-
lows :
Colonels Gadsden and Moultrie, Contuiental
Lieutenant Colonel Sumpter, Continental
Majors Cathell and Elliot, Continental
Lieutenant-Colonel Pinckney not Continental
Lieutenant Colonels Motte and
Robertson, not Continental
Major Henderson, not Continental
THE LEE PAPERS. 203
To THE Board of War and Ordnance.
Cliarlestown, August 7"' ITTG.
Gentlemen :
As I am this instant setting out for Port Royal &,
Georgia, I shall only at present ti*oul)le the Board with
a couple of lines which my regard for the Pu])lic Ser-
vice oldiges me to write ; I must express my apprehen-
sions that unless the Troops of this Province are put un-
conditionally and without any restrictions on the same
footing with the rest — much distraction and confusion
will ensue, already it has in some measure had this
effect : The President and myself put two construc-
tions diametrically opposite on the resolves of the Con-
gress of June ye 8th. I conceive by these Resolves
that I have the power of moving one third of the
Troops out of the Province without consent of the Presi-
dent and Council, for it appears to me, if there is any
meanino- m lano-uagj-e that the clause which restricts the
Continental General fi'om movins; more than one third
of these Troops out of the Province without the consent
of the President and Council expressly gives him the
power of moving one third. His Excellency the Presi-
dent on the other hand insists that no such power is
vested in me : the officers whose opinions I have ask'd
on the meaning of these Resolves are not unanimous,
but tlie major part concur with me^ — inclos'd is the re-
sult of their opinions — thus already we are in a bless'd
chaos of uncertainty and confusion — as near as I have
been able to gather the sentiments of the officers and
soldiers of the Regiments immediately interested —
shou'd the President and myself have so little regard
for the Public welfare as to make a tryal of our respec-
tive authority, I believe I shou'd be obey'd ])y three
fourths, His Excellency by one ; l)ut thank God I l^e-
lieve ^ve have both too much grace to make the experi-
ment.
204 THE LEE PAPERS.
I hope tlie Congress will not tliink it presumption in
my observing that tlie Clause restricting tlie Continen-
tal General from moving more than one tliird of the
Troops out of the Province without the consent of the
President and Council may be attended with fatal con-
sequences — ^for instance, when this Caj)ital the other day
manifestly in the jaws of destruction call'd out for the
assistance of her neio'hbours — had the General been re-
stricted in his power, had the President and Council of
North Carolina l^een out of the way, or had they from
a timid but natural perswasion that their own Province
was the real object of the Enemy, and that the Enemy's
departure was only a feint in order to weaken the Pro-
vince and immediately return and surj^rise 'em in a de-
fenceless state — had I say, any of these circumstances
prevented the Continental General from marching (and
immediately marching) with more than one third of the
Troops of North Carolina, Charlestown wou'd have been
lost. We had an instance similar the other da)', Geor-
gia call'd out for assistance : I requested a Battalion of
the Provincials from the Governor and Council and
cou'd not ol)tain it — in short I beg leave to ui'ge the
necessity of unconditionally putting the Troops of South
Carolina on the same footing with the rest ; I beg leave
to assure the Board and Congress that not only the two
Brigadier Generals, the whole Continental officers, but
nine in ten of the Provincials and of the Gentlemen of
the country are iirmly perswaded that their remaining
on the Colonial Establishment, or half continental half
provincial as they are at present, will be productive of
one disjointed scene of anarchy, perplexity, and confu-
sion — I shall bes: leave before I conclude to mention one
circumstance which is worthy the attention of Congress,
and ought to be cleared U}^ ; Brigadier General Arm-
strong was order'd to be station'd at this place — he re-
pair'd to his station according to the orders he had re-
ceiv'd, but as he had no Continental Troops with him,
he was consider'd as a mere private man or Cypher : I
shou'd imacrine it cou'd never be the intention of Con-
THE LEE PAPERS. 205
gress to order Brigadier Armstrong to ride to Cliarles-
town for liis health or nierely to see the Country.
These things Gentlemen, shou'd be ascertain'd with
23recision as being left to the different constructions and
expositions of different men will give l)irth to disgust,
divisions and party — this at least is the conviction of
Gentlemen
Your most ob* humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To The Board of War and Ordnance,
Philadel23hia.
From the Presideistt of Cojvtgress.
Philadelphia, August 8*^ 1776.
Sir,
The Congress having this day received a Letter from
General Washington containing very important Infor-
mation, I do myself the honor to enclose you a Copy of
the same. You will there perceive that General Clin-
ton, with the Troops under his Command, has joined
General Howe at Staten Island, having left South Caro-
lina soon after the Defeat he and Commodore Parker,
sustained at Sullivan's Island.
In consequence of this Intelligence, the Congress are
convinced, that the Enemy, by collecting their whole
Force into a Point are determined to make a most vigo-
rous Exertion at New York ; and in order to ensure suc-
cess in that Quarter are disposed for the present to
overlook every other object. The getting possession of
that City and the junction of the two Armies under
Generals Howe and Burgoyne seem to be tlie Grand
Objects they have in view, and to the attainment of
which, they give up every inferior Consideration.
In this situation of our affairs, the Congress being
of opinion your services in the Middle DejDartment "v^dll
206 THE LEE PAPEKS.
be necessary, I have it it in Command to direct, tliat
yon repair as soon as possible to the City of Pliihxdel-
phia there to receive such Orders as they may think
23roper to give you.
The attack at New York being hourly expected, and
the Event of it uncertain, I am to request you will use
the greatest Expedition on the Way.
With the best Wishes for your Health and Prospe-
rity, I have the Honour to be
With the greatest Respect, Sir,
Your most obedt & very hble sei't.
John Hancock,
Presid'
Hon. Major General Lee.
General Washington to the President or Congeess.
\_Inclosed in tlie preceding letter.^
Sir,
Since closing the Letter which I had the Honour
to write you this morning two Deserters have come in
who left the Solebay man of War last Evening. One
of them is a native of New York. Their account is,
that they were in the Engagement with Col° Moultrie
at Sullivans Island on y^ 9th July — the particulars they
give nearly correspond with the Narrative sent me by
Geii^ Lee — That they left Carolina 3 Weeks ago, as a
Convoy to 45 Transports, having on board Gen^ Clinton,
L'^ Cornwallis & the whole Southern Army, consisting
of al)out 3000 Men all of whom were lauded last Aveek
on Staten Island in tolerable Health.
That on Sunday 13 Transports part of Lord Howes
Fleet, 6z having on Board Hessians and Highlanders,
came to Staten Island — That the Remainder of the Fleet
which was reported to have in the whole 12000 men had
parted with these Troops off the Banks of Newfound-
land and we're expected to come in every moment — That
THE LEE PAPERS. 207
tliey Avere getting their lieavy Carriages & Cannon on
Board, had. launch'd 8 Gondolas with Fhit Bottoms <fc
2 liafts or sta^^s to cany Cannon. These men under-
stand that the attack will soon be made, if the other
Troops arrive — that they give out they will lay the
Jersey waste with Fire and Sword — the computed
strength of their Army will be 30,000 men — they far-
ther add that when they left Carolina one Transj)ort
got on Shore so that they were not able to give her re-
lief, uj^on which she surrendered with 5 Companies of
Highlanders to Gen^ Lee, who after taking everything
valua1;)le out of her burnt her — That the Admiral turn'd
Gen' Clinton out of his Ship after the Engagement with
a great deal of abuse — Great Differences between the
principal naval and military Gentlemen.
That the Ships left in Carolina are now in such a
weakly distressed Condition, they w^ould fall an easy
Prej.
I am Sir
With great Respect and Regard
Your most obt. & very hble Serv*
G° Washington.
Head Quarters : 'New York,
Aug. 7th 1776. 1 oclock, p.m.
P. S. The Ships are changing their Position, and
the Men of War forming into a Line. But I still think
they will wait the arrival of the remaining Hessians
before any General Attack will be made — Monday's
Return will shew our Strength here.
G. W.
From General Robert Howe.
My Dear General,
I have detach'd tlie Horse agreeable to your order.
I am just getting out of the Daninal)le Hol)ble in which
you left me. Thompson's Detachment is march'd Also
208 THE LEE PAPEES.
Cattels i. e. Gadsdens, Moultrie's sets out this Evening
or TomorroAv^ Morning wlien I sliall take my leave of
this Hotch Potch Camp and join yon as fast as my
Horses can carry me. I forward to yon some Pac-
qnets just received Exactly in the order they come (a
new cover Excepted) Morris is well — Whiffles however
as usual. Birds relicts & Nourses I shall bring along
with me — they are very careless. M'^ Nourse sends her
Love to the Secretary. She says her heart is with
him * ^' *
I should be much obliged to you if you will con-
trive me a line to Col° Bulls informing me whether I
must call at Beaufort or proceed — if you are not gone
on I shall certainly call myself, l)ut the Troops unless
you order otherwise will proceed the shoi'test way to
Purisl^urg. Everything here is as you left it. I have
nothing to add but that I long to join you and that I
am with Respect & Esteem, Dear Sir,
Your most obe* Serv
R. Howe.
10*^ August 1776. ,
Major General Lee,
at Beaufort Port Royal.
Feom Geneeal Washington.
New-York, August 12th, 1776.
My Deae Lee,
Notwithstanding I shall probably feel the effect, I
do most cordially and sincerely congratulate you on
your victory over Clinton and the British squadron at
Sullivan's Island. A victory undoubtedly it is, when
an enemy are drubbed, and driven from a country they
were sent to conquer. Such is the case of Clinton and
Sir Peter Parker, who are now with the fleet and army
at Staten Island, where General Howe and the troops
from Halifax have been ever since the last day of June,
THE LEE PAPERS. 209
and Lord Howe since the twelfth of July. Some Hes-
sians and a pretty many of the Scottish laddies have
got in, and the residue of the fleet parted with off the
banks of Newfoundland, hourly expected. When the
whole arrive matters will soon come to a decision,
every thing being jirepared on T)oth sides for the
appeal, and, on ours, I hope it will be obstinate, if not
successful.
The latter, it is not in the power of mortals to com-
mand ; but they may endeavour to deserve it ; and this
I am persuaded, our troops will more than ever aim at,
as I have impressed upon their minds the gallant 1)e-
haviour of the brave few, who defended Sullivan's
Island.
At present the enemy can bring more men to a
point than we can, and when reinforced by the Hes-
sians without number, as unless the militia (faster than
heretofore) come in to our aid, their numbers, when the
Hessians arrive cannot, by the best intelligence we can
get, fall short of twenty-five thousand men. Ours are
under twenty, very sickly, and posted on Governor's
Island, Long Island, at Powlis Hook, Horn's Hook,
and at the pass near King's Bridge ; more militia are
expected, but whether they ^vill be in time, time only
can tell, as also where the point of attack will l)e. An
opinion prevails, countenanced by hints from some of
the principal tories, and corroborated by intelligence
from Staten Island, that part of the enemy's fleet and
army will go into the Sound, whilst another part of it,
runs up the North River, thereby cutting off all com-
munication by water with this place, whilst their troops
form a chain across the neck, and stop an intercourse
with Connecticut by land : others think, they will not
leave an army in their rear, whilst they have the
country in their front, getting by that means between
two fires, unless it is extended as a feint to withdraw
our troops from the city, that they may slip in and
possess themselves of it : all this is but a field of con-
jecture.
Vol. II.— U
210 THE LEE PAPEKS.
Our affairs in the iiortli have been gro^^ang from
bad to worse, till I hope they will mend, as one great
source of the evil is in a way of being removed, I
mean, the small pox ; but the army have retreated
from place to place, till they are now got to Ticon-
deroga, opposite to which on the east side of the Lake
Champlain, they are al:)out to establish a post, which
they say will be invulneraljle ; but whether it niay
not be somewhat like the man who built a mill on ac-
count of a beautiful fall, and then had to consider
whether it was practicable to bring water to it, re-
mains in some measure to be determined, as it is the
opinion of some, (I know nothing of the country my-
self,) that the enemy may pass this post and get into
Lake George without receiving the least annoyance
fi'om this work. Whether they would chuse to
leave a post in their rear, without establishing one
themselves, sufficient to keep it in awe, is the point in
question.
It gives me a very singular pleasure to hear of the
gallant behaviour of your young aids, and Mr. Jenifer,
as also of Colonels Moultrie and Thompson, to be the
means at any time, of rewarding merit, will add greatly
to my happiness ; and whenever you can point out a
mode that can be adopted consistently, you shall find
me very ready : but you know the temper of the troops
in this quarter, as well as I do, and how impracticable
it is to bring in a person, let his merit be ever so great,
without throwing a whole corps into confusion. This
will also apply to Captain Bullet. What vacancies
there may be in your department that he has his eye
to, and could be appointed to with propriety, you must
know better than I. That there is none here, I can
undertake to say. I have no doubt but the Congress
would annex the rank of colonel to his office of adju-
tant. I l)elieve they have done it in the instance of
Griffin, who is appointed deputy adjutant to the flying
camp. If this would add any thing to his satisfaction,
I should have no objection to the mention of it. With
THE LEE PAPEBS. 211
every wisli for your prosperity and success, I remain
with, sincere regard,
Your most affectionate and ol:)edient,
G°. Washits-gtois".
General Lee.
To President Kutledge.
Colonel Bull's, August 13, 1776.
D" SiK,
AVe are just return'd from Port Royal which I
thought it prudent to visit and inspect before we left
the Province — the place has so many natural advantages
for defence that few works ^vill be necessary to put it
hors d'insult — I have given directions for improving the
Fort and the lines on the narrows — when the Baron has
laid out the Bedoul)ts and fleches agreed upon for Sul-
livan's Ishmd, it will not be amiss if your Excellency
detaches him to make a thorough survey of Port Royal
and S* Helena. I am told that the latter is still strong-
er by nature than the former, on which if two Redoubts
one at Capt Joiners house and another at a Bluff about a
mile below it are erected, nothing more in my opinion can
be added — inclos'd I send you an account of an advan-
tage which the Fincastle Militia have obtain'd over the
Cherokees— the publication of it will give fresh encou-
ragement to your Militia — The Congress have resolv'd
the warmest thanks to Colonel Moutrie and his brave
Garrison as well as to CoP Thompson and the Corps
under his command on the day of the attack — I set out
tomorrow early— On my return I hope to see some of
your Row Gallies on the stocks.
Adieu, D'' Sir, Yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency John Rutledge,
President of the State of South Carolina.
212 THE LEE PAPERS.
Fro:\[ Gen. Andrew Lewis.
Williamsburg, August 13* 1776.
D^ Gen^
I tliink it liighly uecessaiy to iuform you that two
of our Battalions are uow ou their March for the
Jerseys by express order of Congress to me directed.
They are designed as a Reinforcement to what they call
the Flying Camp opposite to Staten Island : wou d it
not appear that Congress are fully of opinion that no
attem23ts will be made on Virginia, but upon what they
found their opinion I know not. From the best ac-
counts I can collect our Troops on both sides Hutsans
River before the Enemys Camp are not less than 30,000
— the number of the Enemy not more than 10,000 — If
this be anything like a true state of the case it cannot
be supposed our Enemies can make much impression in
that Quarter. And is it not natural to suppose they
will, on beino' informed of our condition make an
attempt on this Quarter. This I mention by the bie —
my Business is to obey let the consequence be as it may.
The first and the third Battalions are those I have
ordered North, the time for which the first and second
Battalions were enlisted being nearly expired, I tlio't it
a favourable oj^portunity to attempt listing the first as
the officers of that Battalion appeared ' extremely fond
of eoino; to the Northward, and I have succeeded so well
that with the addition of 120 of the Eighth Battalion
they will be compleat. This unexpected Stroke of
being deprived of two Battalions has occasioned my
ordering the fifth from Portsmouth where tlie fourth
imder tlie command of Col° Steven is Fortifying. They
have 10 Cannon 24 Wf^ some of them mounted & will
in a short time have 8 or 10 more. We have scraped
out of the sand and Dirt at several Places about 30
Cannon exclusive of those at Portsmouth none of ^\'liich
are less than 9 lb'"' and after Burning and cleaning
appear to be extreamly good, such of them as we have
THE LEE PAPEES. 213
tried prove so. Six of them I shall have in a few days
mounted at York, and 3 or 4 at Gloster-Town, the
Batteries will be opposite to each other. Tlie Cannon
we used against the Fleet and Camp at Gwinns Island
are still at the same Batteries and think it best they
shou'd remain so until circumstances make their removal
necessary — I have sent an officer of the Artillery to
hurry down shott from Frederick County Col° Lane
having orders some months past to have them cast as
we have more cannon than we expected, and the
Batteries very distant from each other — I wish an
augmentation of the Artillery Company, this I know
you Recommended to Congress, but am not informed of
any resolution on that head. The time which the
Second Regiment was enlisted for are nearly expired —
they refuse to inlist before they be discharged and go
home to see their friends. We shall have only the fifth
and sixth Res-iments between the Rivers James and
York — the seventh l^emg stationed in Gloucester County
and those are by sickness greatly reduced not less than
130 of a Battalion on an Average unfit for duty — It's
true we have six Companies of Minute Men stationed at
Hampton who are likewise very sickly and want much
to go home, and two Companies at York, who are in the
same l^ad Condition. As I said before I thought it my
duty to make you acquainted with the above circum-
stances that you might be better be able to Guard against
any stroke you might know aimed against this State.
Last Wednesday Dunmore with the remains of his Fleet
sailed out of our Capes where they divided. The armed
Vessels and others to the number of 20 steered north-
wardly, and about the same number to the South. This
of all he had left of 103 which cast anchoi* at Gwinns
Island owing to various causes, the great mortality
amongst both white and Black may be the chief. The
number of Vessels Crippled by the Cannonade with the
damage the worms did them contributed greatly to
their Destruction. I hope the expedition set on foot
against the Cherokees will succeed — Our Rangers in
214 THE LEE PAPERS.
Fincastle County have killed 25 of tliem at different
places on Holston River without the loss of a man, and
have taken a much larger number of Rifles, We have
got by the arrival of a small vessel from S* Eustatia
190 Half Barrels of Powder and 90 Stand of Arms — it
got in the Day the Fleet went out of our Capes. The
last letter I had from you is dated the 29th June which
gave the pleasing Accounts of the Glorious Repulse you
gave the Enemy. My Compliments to Brigadiers
Armstrono; and Howe.
I am Dear General
Your most Obed* and very Hble Serv*
Andrew Lewis
B-^ Genl
To General Lee.
From John Page.
August y* 13'^ 1776.
My dear General,
As Brigadier Lewis intends to send an Express to
you, with great Pro2:)riety in my Opinion I have de-
termined to write by it, whatever may occur to me in
the few Minutes I now can snatch, for I am still pes-
tered with Business. The Brigadier will inform you
of the order from Congress to march two of your Bat-
talions from hence to the Jerseys — I shall only observe
that this added to the Indian War, and a few other
circumstances will make a fine opening for Clinton to
make a Push here as he can make nothing of you.
However, if he should I hope it will only prove a Bait
for him. I suppose before this you must have' heard of
our success against the Cherokees — they have received
a severe check — In the several little skirmishes with
them our men behaved well cfe have killed 25, and
wounded many more without the loss of a man. We
have appointed Colonel Christian, Connnander on the
Expedition by the request of Co^ Russell <fe the consent
THE LEE PAPERS. 215
of Col. Lewis wliom \ve liad at first pitched upon for
tliat Business — He will have 1450 Virginians, & 300
North Carolinians are to join him on Holston at Stal-
nickers — I have received a Letter this day from Col.
Russel dated the 6*^at Capt"* Shelby's near the Place of
the late Skirmish from which I find nothing new has hap-
pened but that they have been informed by one Tho'' Price
who lately escaped from the Cherokees that the Indians
have large Magazines of Powder ct° at a little Town
called Hinwassa. Now [that] I mention Powder I
must ask you whether a Sloop one Martin Commander
has not brought a Quantity of Powder to Cha^ Town,
for sncli a Person was to have called at Cha^ Town
with 14000 K) for Virginia — this is worth enquiring
after, although we have at j^resent a toleral>le good
stock, having received last week from S* Eustatia 8500lb
— in the little Boat which brous-ht this Powder come
Passeno'er an Hessian Genf" who offers his service in
our Armv, having seen as he savs a o-reat deal of ser\ ice
<k acted as a Lieu'' in the last War. He is very anxious
to meet the Hessians, & does not seem to doubt that
they may be all prevailed upon to come over to us.
He says that he expects that a Relation of his one
Christopher Howsmau a Major of the Fusiliers will be
amongst the Troops sent over <fe seems to make sure of
him — however he has been 18 Months in the West In-
dies. He is going immediately to Phil^.
There are two french Gentlemen here who were
bringing in powder <fe Arms with Medicines, ct; were
taken b}' Lord Dunmore tfe treated very roughly — they
happened to be on Gwyn's Island when the Fleet was
forced to retire tfe concealed themselves from the Enemy
when they were flying from the Island, <fc by that
means made their Escape <fe delivered themselves up
to our Men — they appear to be modest sensible men —
one of them who calls himself the Chevalier De S'^ Au-
bin agent servie dans Le Regiment de la feronnay
Dragon, says he has had the pleasure of seeing you 2
or 3 Times tt thinks if he could see you again you
216 THE LEE PAPERS.
would recollect liim — lie is very desirous of going to
Cliarles Town to be examined by you, but as we expect
you will shortly return here, we have advised M"" S'
Aubin to wait 'till we can hear from you, in the mean-
time he agrees to assist in training a Troop of Horse,
& says he will act as Cadet 'till he can give you Proofs
of his Abilities <fc Right to expect some Post of Rank
in the Troop. The other French Gentleman is deter-
mined to return to Martinique — I would ask you to
write your opinion what we should do for these Gent^
if I did not hope to see you soon, for I take it for
granted that Clinton has left Cha^ Town by this Time.
Dunmore has at length quitted Virginia — some say he
is dead, but there is no certainty of this. The Enemy
endeavoured to land at Cape Henry but were repulsed
with the loss of a Boat hj a Party of Men Col. Ste-
phen had sent down for that Purpose on hearing that
the Fleet was coming down the Bay. For Gods sake if
you do not come let us hear oftener from you — it is
above a month since we rec'^ a Line from you — Present
my Complts to our Friends <fc believe me to be
Yours Sincerely
John Page.
To General Lee.
Henry Laurens to John LauRens.
Charlestown, So Carolina 14 Aug' 1776.
Uncommon and exceedingly mortifying, my Dear
Sou, has ])een the late long interruption in our corre-
spondence I find that I have not put [pen] to paper in
any address to you since the 29th April and unless
certain letters referred to in the subjoined list have
reached you, I have no ground to hope tliat you liave
learned anything concerning me since November last —
in the mean time, after long and anxious waiting I have
THE LEE PAPERS. 217
had the pleasure of receiving your Letters of tlie 5th
Decern, from St Augustine and of 20th March by
the hand of Mr. Read, but that whicli you say was
sent via Virginia frank'd l^y the Post Master came no
nearer to me than Cockspur, where it was either de-
stroyed or returned in the Packet, if Gov"" Wright -who
was there had ])een possessed of any feelings he would
have sent a Son's letter to a Father notwithstanding the
opposition of their political tenets.
Once more I will attem]:>t to present my Love to
you by the hands of Mons'' Rilliet who poor gentleman
is making another effort after many disappointments to
regain a footing on his native soil, you will see in the
schedule of letters, he is already the bearer of several
to you, which are now perhaps not worth Carriage. I
have not time to review them and since they are writ-
ten and packetted let them go.
I told you in my last that I was going to Georgia.
I began my journey the 1*' May and at Wright's Sa-
vanna Broton Island & New Hope, found Crops of
Rice amountino' to about 1300 Barrels which I caused
to be removed to places less exposed to the threatened
depredations of picaroons from St. Augustine in such
places that great value still remains. I have lately
learned that each Plantation is ao-ain well covered — the
best Crop they say that ever was borne at Broton
Island — but what of that ? The whole will either be
destroyed stolen or lie with the farmer to perish by
time and Vermin — no small sacrifice at the shrine of
Liberty, and yet very small compared with that which
I am willing to make — not only Crops, but Land, Life
and All nmst follow, in preference to sacrificing Liberty
to Mammon. In such sentiments I found the people of
Georgia with a few exceptions, but none more hearty
■ than our Highland friends, the M^Intoshes. Lachlan is
Colonel of a Battalion upon Continental establishment,
two of his sons Lach, and William are subs. His bro-
ther William commands a troop of Rangers in Pay of
the Colony or as I should now say the State. Jos.
218 THE LEE PAPERS.
Habersliam is Major & John a Captain in the Batta-
lion, in a word the Country is Military.
My negroes there all to a Man are strongly attached
to me, so are all of mine in this Country ; hitherto not
one of them has attempted to desert, on the contrary
those who are most exposed hold themselves always
ready to fly from the Enemy in case of a sudden de-
scent — many hundreds of that Colour have Ijeen sto-
len and decoyed by the Servants of King George the
Third — Captains of British Ships of War and Noble
Lords have busied themselves in such inglorious pil-
ferao-e to the diso:race of their Master and diso-race of
their Cause. — These Negroes were first enslaved by the
English — Acts of Parliament liave established the Slave
Trade in favour of the home residing English and
almost totally prohibited the Americans from reaping
any share of it — Men of War, forts. Castles, Gover-
nors, Companies and Committees are employed and
authorized by the English Parliament to protect regu-
late and extend the Slave Trade. Neo-roes are brous-ht
by Englishmen and sold as slaves to Americans — Bris-
tol, Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, iS>L° &" live
upon the Slave Ti'ade. The British Parliament now
employ their Men of War to steal those Negroes from
the Americans to whom they sold them, pretending to
set the poor wi'etches free, but basely trepan and sell
them into tenfold worse Slavery in the West Indies,
where probably they will become the property of
Eno;lishmen aoi-ain and of those who sit in Pjirliament ;
what meanness ! what complicated wickedness appears
in this scene ! O England, how changed ! liow fallen !
You know, my dear Son, I abhor Slavery. I was
born in a Country where Slavery had been established
by British Kings and Parliaments as well as by the
laws of that Country Ages l)efore my existence, I found
the Christian Peligion and Slavery growing under the
same authority and cultivation. — I nevertheless disliked
it — in former days there was no combatting the pre-
judices of Men supported by Interest, the day I hope is
THE LEE PAPERS. 219
approacbing when from principles of gratitude as well
as justice every Man will strive to be foremost in shew-
ing his readiness to comply with the Golden Rule ; not
less than £'20000 stg. would all my Negroes produce if
sold at public Auction tomorrow. I am not the man
who enslaved them, they are indebted to English Men
for that favour, nevertheless I am devising means for
manumitting many of them and for cutting ojff the entail
of Slavery — great powers oppose me ; the La\^'s and
Customs of my Country, my own and the avarice of my
countrymen — AVhat w411 my Children say if I deprive
them of so much Estate ? these are difficulties l)ut not
iusuperal)le. I will do as much as I can in my time
and leave the rest to a better hand. I am not one of
those who arrogate the peculiar care of Providence in
each fortunate event, nor one of those who dare trust in
Providence for defence and security of their o^vn Liberty
■while they enslave and wish to continue in Slavery,
thousands who are as well intitled to freedom as them-
selves. I perceive the work before me is great. I shall
appear to many as a promoter, not only of strange but
of dangerous doctrines, it will therefore be necessary to
proceed with caution, you are apparently deeply inter-
ested in this affair, l)ut as I have no doubt of your con-
currence and a])probation I most sincerely ^vish for
your advice and assistance & hope to receive both in
good time.
I finished my Journey, going round by Mepkin, and
returned to Charles Town the 1^ June half an hour
after I had entered my house Intelligence was brought
of a Fleet at Anchor a little to the Northward of
Charles Town Bar for the History of this Fleet I refer
you to Jack Wills's paper of the 2'' inst. and to certain
notes which I have added, his account although true in
o'eneral substance is the most buufrlino; and inaccurate of
any thmg I have seen from him, it would he easier to
build a true and proper narrative at full length than to
mend the l)otchery which he took a full mouth to com-
pose. I wish you or somebody else would publish a
220 THE LEE PAPERS.
fair and lionest compilation from his Gazette and my
papers — You know me too well to suppose I would in
a tittle exaggerate or suppress. You may add as much
of what follows as may appear to be necessary, l)ut let
the whole be cleverly done and introduced by such dec-
larations of candor as these accounts are well entitled
to — -nothing more abhorrent to me than jiublications of
falsehood for Truth.
Upon the tremendous range of 55 Sail of Hostile
Ships before our doors and in full view, after wishing
they had rather come as seekers for ffreights of Rice, I
tliought it my duty to add to the dignity of Vice Presi-
dent of the Colony (now State observe) the several
offices of Engineer, Super Intendant of Works, Aid de
Camp, and occasionally any other which could in the
least contribute to the service of my Country then
seeming to verge on a precipice and to require the sup-
port of every Man in it. — I w^ho you know had resolved
never again to mount a horse, I who thought it impos-
sible for me to Gallop five miles a day, was seen for a
month and more every day on the back of a lively Nag
at ^ past 4 in the morning some times Galloping 20
Miles before breakfast and some times sitting the Horse
14: Hours in 18 — tfe what you will say was more ex-
traordinary I never got a tumble. But mark he was a
trotting horse I will never cross a pacer again if I can
avoid it — I have spoken so particularly of myself, not
meaning to claim any singular or extraordinary merit,
but because I know you will draw pleasing inferences
of my state of health from an account of such exertions
— the President was as diligent as active as a man could
be & so much more useful than myself as his authority,
superior al)ilities and advantages of youth enal)led him,
every Man except a few unhap})y misled whom the Peo-
ple call Tories and a few of a worse stamp whom I call
property men, was animated, discovered a Love of
Country and a boldness arising from an assurance of
Ijeing engaged in a just cause ; Cliarles Town was in a
a very short time inclosed l)y Lines, Trenches, and Re-
THE LEE PAPERS. 221
cloutes — Wliarve3 were cleared of all incunil)rances,
Streets strongly barricaded — retrenchments witliin —
Biitteries erected for defence at practicable Landings
above the town — Thousands of Men came in from the
Country, from North Carolina and Virginia and all
this with a degree of celerity as amazing as our former
neglect had been, much indeed are we indeljted to Gen.
Lee as well as to his seconds the Brio;adiers Armstrono;
and Howe, these arrived at a critical time and ^ve "were
favoured by ^veather which fortunately withheld the
Enemy from striking a sudden blow and every moment
of the interval was improved to advantage on our side.
Gen' Lee at first sight was exceedingly displeased
with the Fort at Sullivant's wished we could save our
Stores and abandon it, although he acknowledged the
exterior work was impregualjle ; however as that could
not 1;)e done, he recommended some amendments, gave
advice. Orders and his presence in the beginning of the
action to which if we do not altogether owe the honor
of the 28 June we are certainly greatly indebted — Ijut
from the General's l^etter knowledge of the Harbour
and the vast importance of that post he must now be of
a different opinion.
At the approach of the ships of war towards Sulli-
vant's the ramparts and parapets of Fort Johnson
where Col° Gadsden had chosen his command were seen
covered ])y officers and soldiers, every one interesting
himself in the fate of the sister Fortress and standing
ready in case of need to second her efforts. All the
Battei'ies round this Town were at the same time
manned. Guns loaded, every article in readiness for act-
ing in turn. Troops of regulars and Militia- properly
stationed for repelling all attempts to land. Engines
and Men at j^roper stands for extinguishing Fires in
the to^vn — there was every appearance of an universal
determination to give General James Grant the flat
lie, it was the fortune of his old friend Will. Moultrie
to sjieak first and he monopolized the glory of the Da}'.
The country Militia as well as the to^vn continued
222 THE LEE PAPERS.
chearfully to do duty on tliis Frontier as long as one of
tlie Enemies' Fleet remained in sight — The Active was
the last, who with a tender went about ten days ago to
Bull's Island the property of Captain Shabrick landed
40 White and 20 Black Men, killed by platoon firing a
few head of Cattle, augmented their Black Guard by
stealing six more negroes and then sailed off the coast
or perhaps only a little out sight. To hear Shulnick's
overseer relate the manner of their firing on the cattle
and the very few of their shot which hit the mark, is
di'oll enough and serves to raise the contempt of those
who with single ball at 150 yards distance will hit the
circle of an English crown.
After the attack on Sullivant'g Island seconded by
Ravages and murders by the Cherokee Indians on our
Western frontier who probaldy acted in a concerted
plan with the ships and troops I believe there were few
men here who had not lost all inclination for renewing
our former connexion with your King and his ministers.
However that might have been, the great point is now
settled — On the 2d. inst. a Courier arrived from Phila-
delphia and brought a declaration of the 4th. July by
the representatives of the 13 United Colonies in Congress
met, that from thenceforward those Colonies should
be " Free and Independent States." You have no doubt
seen the paper or will in a few days see a Copy often
repeated at full length, therefore I need not mark the
particular contents, this Declaration was proclaimed in
Charles Town with great solemnity on Monday the 5*^
Inst, attended by a Procession of President, Councils,
Generals, Meml)ers of Assembly Officers Civil tfe Mili-
tary <fc° cfe° amidst loud acclamations of thousands who
always huzza when a proclamation is read. — To many
who from tlie Rashness, Impolicy and Cruelty of the
British Administration had foreseen this event — the
scene was serious, important and awful — even at this
moment I feel a Tear of affection for the good old
Country and for the j^eople in it whom in general I
dearly love. — There I saw that Sword of State which I
THE LEE PAPERS. 223
liad befcu-e seen four several times iinslieatlied iu
Declarations of War against France and S])aiii by the
Georges now imslieatlied and borne in a Declaration of
War against George tlie Third. I say even at this mo-
ment my heart is full of the lively sensations of a duti-
ful Son, thrust by the hand of Violence out of a Fath-
er's house into the Wide ^vorld. What I have often with
truth averred iu London and Westminster, I dare still
aver, not a soV)er Man and scarcely a single Man in
America wished for separation from Great Britain.
Your King too, I feel for, he has been greatly deceived
and abused.
Soon after the Men of War had anchored within our
Bar, alarming accounts were brought of new attempts
by John Stuart, Henry Stuart, Alexander Cameron
and other Ministerial Agents to stir up the Savage In-
dians to attack our Western frontier, several Inter-
cepted Letters from them confirmed the reports — the
Indians and particularly the Cherokees had amused us
by the most flattering talks, full of assurances of
friendship and promises to follow our advice which
always had been that they should observe a strict
neutrality — but very suddenly, without any pretence
to provocation those treacherous De^^ils in various
parties headed by White Men and pushed on by those
who are in employment for this cruel purpose, made
an Inroad upon our settlements, burned several houses
and murdered about sixty persons chiefly Women and
Children. Col^ A"^ Williamson in South, Brigadier
Kutherford in North Carolina were immediately in
Arms and a large Command marched fi'om Virginia
what Rutherford and the Virginia Troops have done
we are not yet informed but Colonel Williamson and
his parties have driven back the Savages of the lower
To\A'ns killed as many as could be come at in fight and
taken some prisoners among Avhom are no less than
15 White men, they have also destroyed Sennecca,
Keowee, Warrachy, Estatokee, Toxawa and Sugar
Town together with the Crops of Corn and other grain
224 THE LEE PAPERS.
found in fields and Barns, tlie only possible way of re-
ducing the barbarians. This intelligence comes from
Col° Williamson in late Letters. If the Virginians act
their part well, the Cherokees will soon be reduced to
the utmost distress and may possibly turn their ven-
geance against those hellish Instigators to this Hellish
War. At the entrance of Senneca a new Town which I
am told was very extensive on the Banks of Keowee,
Colonel Williamson suffered from an ambuscade, his
Horse by two shot was killed under him. Mr. Sal-
vador a gentleman whose death is universally regretted
was killed by his side, eight men wounded, two of
whom are since dead. He nevertheless rallied his
Troops, attacked the Savages beat them out and after
destroying a town of near four miles long marched for-
ward — he is undoubtedly a brave man and not a bad
General — you know his deficiency in Education, what
heighths might he have reached if he could have im-
proved his (jrenius by Reading. If we succeed against
the Cherokees the Creeks and other Indians may con-
tinue to be simple spectators of our contest with
British Ships and Soldiers, otherwise we shall be at-
tacked on all sides and greatly distressed — but men
here are fearless of distress and determined to maintain
their Rights, trusting in a Righteous God for a happy
issue.
I told you in a former letter of the dangerous In-
surrection by thousands of the l)ack country people,
these were suppressed by the vigilance and activity of
Colo. Williamson in a first instance and in a second and
more formidable by Colonel Richardson and troops
from North Carolina — hundreds or more properly
thousands were taken prisoners, informed truly of the
nature of the dispute between Great Britain and the
' Colonies converted and sent to their habitations, about
an hundred of their Colonels, Captains and other ofii-
cers (from whence it appears the whole body was very
large) were brought to Charlestown, these exce^^t 13 or
14 of the most tenacious soon confessed their errors
THE LEE PAPERS. 225
mntecl in the American Cause and also returned Jionie
— of the 13 or 14 were some sensible men j^articularly
their chief colonel Robert Cunningham, a man of great
honour, A\*hose conscience as he said fettered him in the
oath of allegiance although he admitted the injustice
of taxing Americans without their own consent, & cen-
sured tlie British administration ; he often moved me
while I was President of the Council of Safety and
often since the Pi'esident of the Colony to accept from
him and his companions an oath of Neutrality, he
would not at first believe that the British Administration
were so wicked as to instio;ate the savaires to War
a2:ainst us — as soon therefore as he ^vas convinced of
the truth his conscience freed him from old obligations
and he most heartily desired to take the oath of fidelity
to the United Colonies and to have an opportunity of
giving proofs of his sincerity, his fellow prisoners
joined him in a petition to the Pj-esident <fe Council,
Avho ordered the whole to be released — they immedi-
ately repaired to Col° Williamson's Camp and offered
their service, but he considerino; their Ions: absence from,
their several homes recommended to them the care of
their families — Not all however whom we have eu-
larged have continued faithful, some of the common
fello^^'S have quoted the example of Sir James and
broke their parol — most of these are now among the
Indians, some of them have again been taken prisoners
and must suffer the penalty of an old law. Kirkland
you may have heard made his Escape when he left his
Son a child of 10 or 12 years old in Gaol — -we know
nothing of him since his flight — possibly this ignorant
fellow may have found his way to St. James's he was
confident of a hearty welcome there and of much free
conversation with the Master of that House — If he
was Honest, he might make a tolerable Serjeant l)ut
anything less than a Regiment vnW fall short of his
o^vn Mark.
The Reverend M'' Coopei", from time to time gave
offence to his Parishioners and thev have dismissed
YoL. II.— 15
226 THE LEE PAPERS.
liim. Tlie King's Officers, that is to say the Att^ Gen-
eral, Chief and Assistant Judges, Postmaster and Mr.
Outerbridge are confined to the Postmaster's House the
late Commander of Fort Johnson and tlie Collector are
at large on their parol, W Wragy remains at his plan-
tation and lately James Brisbane and some seven or
eight others of our Neigli]:)ors who had signed the As-
sociation & acknowledged the Justice of the American
Cause but refused to do anything which might endan-
ger their property in case of Conquest by the other side
(these and some wdio play a still more cunning Game
are pi'oj^erty men) were sent to Cheraw Goal^ — the suc-
cess of the 28 June made some converts and those
Gentlemen in particular advanced so far as to consent
to bear Arms, take the Test Oath, &,° but still under
the Air of Obedience to avail themselves of the plea of
compulsion and to save property — such Men deserve no
station of honor on either side. I can have no pity for
these, Avhile I sincerely commiserate the circumstances
of the King's Officers and of every suffering candid
man, although he may be mine Enemy.
Mrs. Stuart, the wafe of the cruel Superintendent
had been long confined to her House and hindered from
leaving the Colony, the people had hoped that Stuart
would in the case of his own have had some tender
feelings for the Wives and innocent children of our
friends on the Indian Frontier, Init when we found that
he had struck the blow, instead of retaliating as his
friends ever do, the President and Privy Council or-
dered Mrs. Stuart to be enlarged; no valuable end
could be obtained by a continuance of her suffering.
America is now well supplied with Gun Powder
and Arms and every Day will probably ir crease our
Commerce by slow steps.
The General Assembly is to meet on the 17th. Sep-
teml)er when the Declaration of Independence will be
I'ecorded among our Acts and every salutary measure
pursued for the Welfare of the State. To tell you the
Virginians had routed Lord Dunmore, that North Car-
TIIE LEE PAPERS. 22<^
ollna Is very quiet, ^Marylaiul and P]iila(lel])lila aw yet
unmolested, New York likely to become the seat of
War for this Summer, that Boston is now secured to us
by stroni^ Fiu'tiiications, that the New England Priva-
teers had made ]U'izes of several Transport Ships and
j)ris()ners of many hundred Highland S(ddiers Avould
j)r(^bably be to relate wdiat you will know before this
can reach you — but it may be new to you, that Gen.
Lee and Gen^ Howe went last Aveek to Georgia, whence
some expedition is intended to the Southward — the
season of the year and some other circumstances are not
so favoral)le as to give me sanguine hopes of success ;
and you will feel some concern when I tell you, we ex-
pect another visit by the British Ships and Troops in
the Winter Months.
I have now gone through with much Intelligence
such as it is, don't wonder if I tell you I write in haste.
I had determined to take time by the forelock and to
have saved four or five days for writing to my friends
in England but some unexpected public calls and the
long sickness of my good Man James I am reduced to
one and I must copy for different conveyances, how-
ever I have a few words more to add. — I am now by
the Will of God brought into a new World and God
only knows what sort of a World it wall be — what may
be your particular opinion of this change I know not.
You have done well to avoid writing on politics. Re-
member you are of full age entitled to judge for your-
self. Pin not your faith upon my sleeve, but act the
part which an Honest Heart after mature deliberation
shall dictate and your services on the side w^hich you
may take, because you think it the right side, will be
the more valuable.
I need not tell you whatever may be your determi-
nation to avoid all party disputes and to act inoffen-
sively and circumspectly in the State where you are —
I cannot rejoice in the downfall of an old friend of a
parent from whose nurturing breasts I have drawn my
support and strength, every Evil which befalls old
228 THE LEE PAPERS.
England grieves me, would to God she had listened in
time to the cries of her children and had checked the
Insidious Slanders of Men who call themselves the
King's Servants and the King's friends, especially such
of them as had been transported to America in the char-
acter of Civil Officers. If my own Interests, if my own
Kights alone had been concerned I would most freely
have given the whole to the demands and disposal of
her Ministers in preference to a separation, but the
Kights of Posterity were in question. I happened to
stand as one of their Representatives and dared not be-
tray my trust.
I am now more than ever anxious to see you, to see
my Dear Harry and jcmr Sisters, to see your Uncle
and Aunt — but when and where ? God direct you for
the best — but pay particular attention to those friends
especially to your eldest Sister and to Harry, your
other Sister is at an age and has qualities to make her
Foster Mother happy. I could add very much on this
head — but clouds and Darkness are before me.
Remember me respectfully to each of my old friends,
tell them that as an Individual I have a right to acknow-
ledge my oljligations to them and that I will take every
oj)portunity of shewing my Regard, and although I hold
my Life by a most precarious tenure yet I trust in God we
shall meet again as friends, particularly inform l^oth the
M"" Cowles's that I will when it is possible look into our
accounts and adjust them — -it has not been in my power
to do so since my arival from England. M'' William
Cowles will do me the justice to own that 'tis not my
fault those accounts were left unsettled. I had often
wrote to him for them, I made one journey to Bristol for
the sole purpose of settling them, and when I was leav-
ing the Kingdom, I again took Bristol in my way to Fal-
mouth for the same purpose I waited there to the very last
hour for saving my passage in the Packet and did not
receive the papers from him till I had kept the Post
Chaise long in ^vaiting at my dooi' and in despair was
just stepping into it. My friend is to 1 )lame on this score.
THE LEE PAPERS. 229
I am glad yon continue witli ]\[r. Bicknel and your
brother with j\[r. Henderson, frugality is essential to you
both, consider I cannot supply you while the Sword of
Britain remains unsheathed. Improye eyery moment of
your time my deal' son and continue your guichince and
protection to your Brother and your Sisters, your respect
and Duty to your distressed Uncle and Aunt. I feel
nnu'h for them, may God protect and guide you all and
may he still giye Peace and mutual friendship to the di-
yided family of Britain and promote the happiness
equally of the ancient Boot and of the transplanted
branches. — If you do not come enquire for opportiuiities
in Holland and in France, and write as oft as you can —
tt Harry too.
Adieu ! My Dear, Dear Son,
He]S"ry Laueens.
Why do you neyer say a word of M. B.
Mr. John Laurens.
Letters referred to.
26 Noy. and 6 Decern by Rainier fi'om Georgia.
4^^ 8* & 16'^ January by Mr. Rilliet. Copies by
Snw Mobile Capt. Smith.
22'^ Feburary 6 <fe 14 March by Mr. Billiet. Copies
by Mr. Demar yia West Indies.
16*^^ and 19th March by Mr. Rilliet.
26 28 and 28 March by Mr. Sandy Wright to be
forwarded through St. Augustine.
29 April by Mr. Rilliet.
Endorsed : "14 Auoust 1776 Charlestown"
230 THE LEE PAPEES.
To Geneeal John Aemsteoxg.
Purisbourg, August y*" 15, 177(3.
Deae Geneeal,
Oue hundred and forty seven of Colonel Mughlen-
burglis Regiment witli two Captains and three sub-
alterns are left sick at CLarlestown; as fast as they
recover I must request you to order 'em back to Wil-
liamsburg where they are to aggregate themselves with
Capt. Cochrane's Company of that Regiment— it will
be politick to apprize them of their destination, for as I
have reason to think that the Devil of Desertion has
in some measure possessed 'em, their being acquainted
that they are to return home, will be the means of cast-
ing out the Dgenion— You will likeAvise inform Briga-
dier General Lewis of this step who ^vill dispose of 'em
at his disc]*etion.
As I am told from the best authority that a prodi-
gious quantity of j)Owder is arrived in Virginia and
'Maryland, I wish you wou'd by the first opportunity
send two more Tons to Georgia ; write to N. Carolina
to replace it, and to Virginia to replace theirs — Your
letters to the Councils or Committees of those Pro-
vinces will be sufiicient. I am and shall be so ex-
tremely busy^'^ in our present expedition that you must
be saddled with the detail of such matters.
I hope the Baron has already set himself to work
on the Redoubts on Sullivan's Island and the Screen for
the Bridge^ — it is my opinion that the two bridges must
be preserved, and tnat in order to prevent the commu-
nication betwixt the Fort and the old bridge being cut
off, a chain of small redoubts capable of containing a
subaltern and thirty each with two pieces of cannon
shou'd be erected in such a manner that the most dis-
tant may be commanded by its next neighbor — the
second by the third, and the third by that of the
fourth — I mention four at a venture, but as I am not
accurately acquainted with the exact distance from the
THE LEE PAPERS. 231
Fort to the Bridge, perliaps five or six will be necessary
— when I speak of this Chain of Ke(loii])ts beiug com-
manded each by its neighbour I mean tliat tlie face or
Hank presented to its neiglibour sho'^ be so weak or
slender that the enemy cannot make a lodgment in any
one of them ; as the Cannon of the next must drive
'em ont shou'd they take possession of it — inclos'd is a
rough sketch of my idea — without this Chain of Forts,
Sullivan's Island will be a very precarious Post — It is
at ])est a damnable one.
I beg you will present my compliments to the
President and inform him that as I found Richmonds
Militia falling do^vn every day, I order'd 'em from Port
Royal to their respective homes — They are a fine body
of men, and it wou'd have been monstrous not to have
a regard for their preservation. — My respects to Con-
ner, and believe me D" General, to be entirely
Yours
Charles Lee.
To Brio-adier Genl. Armstrono*.
Orders to Lleut. Berriaist.
Savanna Aug* 18'^ 1776.
Sir,
You are to proceed from hence to Beaufort with
two Prisoners, Peter Backup and James Loftin — You
are to be extremely vigilant that they do not escape, for
which reason you are to keep 'em in irons at least during
the Night, and place trusty Centinels over them — When
you arrive at Beaufort you are to deliver them into the
hands of Colonel Bull or Officer commanding the place
from whom you are to demand a receipt.
Charles Lee
Major General
To Lieut* Berrian.
232 THE LEE TAPEKS.
To Colonel Bull.
Savanna, Aug^ust 18tli 1776.
SiK,
Lieut* Berrian of tlie Georgian Battalion has Orders
to deliver into your custody the notorious Backup, a
most pernicious, active Instrument of Boyal Yillan}^
I must request that you will be extremely careful in tak-
ing necessary measures to prevent his escape — That you
will detach a sufficient number of men with a trusty
officer from your Corps of Militia who are to deliver
him into the hands of His Excellency the President — it
will be prudent to keep him at least during the Night
in Irons.
I am Sir Your most ob* humble Serv*
Chaeles Lee
P. S. A James Loftin born in America taken by
Capt. Baker and a worthy adjunct of Mr. Backup is
coupled to him, of whom I must desire you will take
equal care. He is one of Tonyns Lieutenants. •
To Col. Bull,
Officer Commanding at Beaufort.
To President Rutledge.
Savanna, 18*^ Aue^ust 1776.
D« Sir,
I ought to be asham'd of myself for a gross mistake
or piece of disti'action I have Ijeen guilty of ; I had
taken into my head that in the detachment arranged for
Georgia that Tli()m])son's Regiment ^vas only to furnish
eighty and that Capt" LEarden's ^v"llole Company was to
march — On this supposition I order'd Harden's whole
Company to embark — I afterwards in looking in my
THE LEE PAPERS. 233
Note Book (for I had iK^t my Note Book witli iiie iu
Port lioyal) perceived my mistake aud I once more
confess my sliame for so great a one.
I liave by tlie desire of some of the Gentlemen liere
order d the notorious Backuj) with a wortliy adjunct
(as great a Rascal as himself) one Loftin (calling him-
self a Lieutenant of the Royal Rangers of East Florida)
to Beaufort under a sti'ono; o-uard — from thence he will
be convey'd to Charlestown where y"" Excellency will
dispose of him according to your discretion.
Tomori'ow we are to have a Council — I ^vill inform
you of the result and the measures I shall pursue iu
consequence of it — en attemJant —
I am, D" Sir, IMost sincerely yours,
Charles Lee.
To His Exc^' Jno Rutledge,
President of the State of South Carolina.
Conference with the Georgia Council of Safety.
Tuesday, August 19, 1776.
General Lee w^aited on the Board, and proposed
the following questions for their consideration :
I St ^Yii(3tlier, as the post on S* Mary's is now
abandoned, and the whole country between that river
and the S* Johns broke uj^, and as there is no possibility
of transporting cannon, ammunition, provisions, or col-
lecting a sufficient number of men for the siege and
reduction of Augustine, an irruption into East-Florida
can be productive of so great and important advantages
to the general cause, or to this state of Georgia in
particular, as to compensate for the trouble and exj^ense,
and what these advantages are I What are the means
of certainly supplying the troops with grain and meat ?
how their baggage is to be transported ? whether it can
234 THE LEE PAPERS.
be safely transported by water ? if it cannot, wbetlier
wagons can pass? if the road is practicable only to
horses, how pack-saddles are to be provided?
Ordered, That Mess''^ Jonathan Bryan and Nathan
Bronson be a Committee to answer the questions pro-
posed by General Lee.
Sir:
The Council having taken into consideration your
Excellency's questions this day laid before them, are
clearly of opinion that an irruption into the Province of
East Florida will be attended with the most salutary
consequences to this Province, and of coui-se render
service to the whole Continent.
The reasons which weigh with them are as follow :
l^*' That they conceive the reduction of Augustine to
be a very considerable object with the Continent in
general, but this Province in particular.
2*^ They are led to hope, that if the whole country
around is ravaged, the cattle on the east side of St.
John's driven off, and the inhabitants obliged to evac-
uate their plantations and fly into the Castle, the scar-
city of provisions and the want of fresh sup23lies of
many articies from the country, will of itself oblige the
garrison to sul^mit to our arms.
3*^ That sup230sing this last consequence not to
happen, yet the driving our enemies so far from our
country wall be of infinite advantage in this, that it will
be a means of preventing the loss of Negroes, either by
desertion or otherwise ])y land.
4*^ That the country being in our possession, will
not only, from principles of dread, attach the Indians to
our interest, but also put it in our power to prevent our
enemies from holding any intercourse with these savages,
or having any o])portunity to tamper with them, or
supply or stir tliem up against us. And we conceive
that after the Province shall be so broke up, a single
ti'oop of Horse, appointed to range on the west side of
the river St. John's, will be quite sufficient to cut off all
THE LEE PAPERS. 235
communication l)etween tlie Creek Indians and tlie peo-
ple of East Florida.
5*^^ By carrying distress and war into the country, we
incline to tliink the inhabitants of East-Florida will find
themselves so much eno-ao-ed at home as not to l)e al)le
to lit out privateers against this Provmce tdl we are
better prepared for them. This Province has been har-
assed, and they expect to be much more so, with pri-
vateers, in case some vio-orous blow is not struck a2:ainst
East Florida ; and we are mclmed to think the plunder
w^hich will fall into the hands of the soldiers will com-
pensate them for the difiiculty and toil attending their
march.
As to the other question, viz : What are the means
of certainly supplying the troops with grain and meat ?
hoAV is the baggage to be transported safely by water ?
— we are of opinion, that while the troops remain on
this side of the river Alatamaha, there will be no occa-
sion to do more than send a Commissary ahead to pro-
vide rice and beef at different stages, as the troops ad-
vance, the country all along abounding with provisions,
after they pass this river. We think it will be neces-
sary to send a quantity of rice in boats, with directions
to meet the troops at different places; and we are in-
formed that these boats may go with great safety, there
being an excellent inland passage to a place called Pic-
alatto Creek, less than twenty miles from St. Augus-
tine. We imagine these boats must be procured in or
about Savannah or Sunbury, and therefore we would
recommend that the ti'oops send such of their baggage
as they can't conveniently carry in these boats. Some
horses will certainly be necessary for troops upon their
march, which, together with pack horses, we think may
be got in this place. Wagons will be useless, as they
cannot proceed above fifty miles from this town.
286 THE LEE PAPERS.
To President Rutledge.
Charlestown, August 20*^ 1776.
Dear Sir,
I suppose you liave heard of the Enemy's having
abandoned th' Post on the Piver S* Mary and with-
drawing all their stock and slaves within the River S*
John's w*'^ will naturally contract the plan of our 023er-
ations. We have neither cannon, ammunition, men
sufficient, nor the means of transport to undertake the
siege of S* Augustine, so the whole mil I believe con-
clude in an incursion of insult — tomorrow I shall fix on
the number of Troops and the Officer to command the
expedition. I shall then return to Charlestown, and
arrange finally with you everything necessary to secu-
rity against a second visit : Capt. Joiner has arm'd a
small boat mth swivels and a gun at the Bow which,
on a larger scale will I am persuaded answer admirably
for the defence of rivers. I wdsh the scheme may be
adopted by your province in conjunction with the Gal-
lies proposed will put you in a situation to laugh at
their Tenders. You must excuse the shortness of this
Letter as it is very late, so wishing you good night, I
must desire you to believe me to be, D' Sir, most sin-
cerely yours,
Charles Lee.
To The Hon. John Putledge.
From President Putledge.
August 20*^ 1776.
D^ Sir,
I thank you for the Intelligence contained in yours
of the 13*" Instant. By Letters from Gol. Williamson,
dated the 5*^ we are informed that he had burned five
of the Cherokee Indian Towns, laid waste their adjoin-
THE LEE PAPERS. 237
ing Fields which had plentiful Crops of Corn it was
on his march to some otlier Towns higher up tlie Na-
tion. The last accounts of the North Carolina Trooj)s
say they had not marched, ])ut Avere to rendezvous the
IS'*^ instant at Quaker Meadows — The Congress will not
agree to the Georgia Proposal for giving Presents
ot Cattle to the Creeks — Our delegates say that, in
Consequence of my Letter to them, your Case having
been mentioned to Congress, a Conunittee upon it had
been a})pointed — The following is an Extract from M'
Sam* Adams's Letter to me on that subject. "July 25
— Your Proposal witli regard to Gen. Lee coincides
Avith my Liclination and Judgment. There is no one,
more heartily disposed to gratify that Gentleman's
Wishes than I am ct I think to omit it in this Instance
w'' l)e hardly just — It has been moved in Congress & I
have reason to believe the matter will be speedily com-
pleated to your satisfaction." The Bearer, Rogers, has
the Care of sevei'al stocks of Cattle in Georgia be-
longing to M" Williamson, a Gentleman of this Town.
He makes heavy Complaints of the Inattention of the
Georgians, ct their not taking the necessary steps to
prevent the Enemy at Augustine supplying themselves
w**" Cattle from the Southern part of Georgia, which are
now wholly exposed to theii' Depredations, where the
Cattle are very numerous. He says a Troop of Horse
was, some time ago stationed, a little beyond Sitilla
Kiver to protect the Cattle between that tt S'^ Marys
— that this Troop was so negligent of their duty, that
a party of 30 Men fi*om Augustine actually canie into
their very Camp tt carried off 6 of them Prisoners, and
that they have lately removed 40 Miles to the North-
ward of Sitilla. They were, as formerly stationed, a
very poor Cover, not being far enough to the SouthA\ard,
but now there is none at all — Rogers sa}'s the Enemy
have drove off near 4000 Head of Cattle, but that many
of 'em being as yet only a little way over S'^ Johns
River, may be brought back, if attempts to get them are
made soon. He is I believe a man of Credit, and can
238 THE LEE PAPEES.
give you many particulars which it would be too tedi-
ous to write. Indeed Williamson suspects, <k does not
scruple to declare his opinion, that such strange Con-
duct is owing to some Scotch Folks in Georgia & in
Augustine, but this entre nous — However * *
To THE PeESIDENT AND CoUJSTCIL OF THE StATE OF
Geoegia.
Savannah, August 23''' 1776.
Gentlemen,
It is certainly my duty, and I can assure you it is
not less my inclination to put the Province in a State of
Security — the proj)er means of effecting this security, I
am in quality of Commander in Chief of the District to
judge of. I shall never think myself under an obliga-
tion of specifying in detail my intentions — but only
make requisitions of the materials which appear neces-
sary to the end — to explain myself in particulars wou'd
be inevitably to defeat my purposes. I hope. Gentle-
men, therefore that I shall not be thought arrogant in
confining myself to simple requisitions, Imt that you
will consider the part I act in its proper light, that of
a prudent Servant of the Public determinVl to render it
all the service possible — On this principle I must re-
quest that M' Bryant and Mr. Joyner may be supplied
with the number and sort of boats they shall hx upon,
and that all the Carpenters be ordei''d to work under
their direction and not subjected to the Counter orders
of any other man or set of men whatever.
I am Gentlemen cfe°
Chaeles Lee.
To His Excellency Archibald Bullock, President
and the Gentlemen of the Council of the State
of Georgia.
THE LEE PAPERS. 239
To THE President of Congress.
Savannah in Georgia, 23""^ Augt. 1770.
Sir, ^
Your letter witli the thanks of the Continental Con-
gress reach'd me at Purisburg. The approbation of the
freely chosen Delegates of a free and uncorrupt people
is certainly the highest honor that can be conferr'd on
Mortal man.
I shall consider it as a fresh stimulus to excite my
zeal and ardour in the glorious cause in which I am en-
gaged — May the God of righteousness prosper your
arms in every part of the Empire in proportion to the
justice with Avhicli they were taken up — once more let
me express the highest satisfaction and happiness I feel
in this honorable testimony, and once more, let me as-
sure the United States of America, that they cannot
meet with a Servant (Avhatever may be my abilities )
animated ^vdth a greater degree of ardor and enthusiasm
for their safety, prosperity and glory.
The present State of this Province, its strength and
weakness I shall transmit to the Board of War accord-
ing to the directions I have received, and let me entreat
you to be perswaded that I am, Sir, with the greatest
respect
Your most 0I3* and very humble Serv*
Charles Lee.
To The Honorable John Hancock,
President of the Continental Congress.
From Francis Huger.
General Lee as Col. Huger informs Capt. Huger, is
somewhat Dissatisfied with his manner of receiving
some few touches on duty the General was yesterday
pleased to give him— Capt. Huger confesses he was
240 THE LEE PAPERS.
thrown into some little warmtli upon Ijeing reprimand-
ed for doing what lie thought, considering the high
provocation he receiv'd, his duty, even although Ser-
jeants, as he well knew, were exempted in general from
every manual chastisement, he however declares he had
not yesterday or ever had the least intention to give
(ieneral Lee the slightest dissatisfaction or affront
either in his publick or private character ; for in the
first place, as a very young officer he must look cau-
tiously before he adventures, and must of course yield
to the General's so much suj^erior Judgment, in the
second, as a Gentleman, he would never offer an insult
to another in his own House, and Is with respect,
His Excellency's
Most Obedt. Humb^ Serv*:
Fran^ Huger
Saturday 24*^ [August,] '76.
To His Excellency General Lee.
To THE Presideistt and Council of the State of
Georgia.
Savannah, August 24'^ 1776.
Gentlemen,
I am extreamly unfortunate in having so express'd
myself as to have given the Council room to think that
I have the least diffidence of their readiness and aLic-
rity to cooperate in ^vhatever is necessary for the public
service.
I do assure you that I never entertain'd so injurious
a thought, and give my word cfe honor that no ])erson
whatever has laboiu-'d to represent the Council in an
imfavorable light — the sole end and purpose of my let-
ter was to apprize the Presick^nt and Council of the
method 1 intended to pursue, in order to obviate the im-
THE LEE PAPERS. 241
putation or suspicion of presumption and arrogance, as
I know that Gentlemen not used to the short and con-
cise method necessary in military operations are apt to
misconstrue it into an inclination to bear down the
civil authority — for these reasons, I must repeat that I
thought it prudent to advise the President and Council
of the method I intended to pursue in order to prevent
their being surpris'd or shock'd at a sliort and simple
requisition which to them must appear a novelty — and
that I never myself entertain'd a suspicion, or has any
officious Person endeavour'd to insinuate a want of zeal
in your respectalde Board.
I am, Gentlemen, with the greatest Respect,
Your most obed* humble Servt,
Charles Lee.
To his Excellency the Pi-esident and Gentlemen of the
Council of the State of Georgia.
To the Board of War and Ordxak^ce.
Savanna, 27th August, 1776.
Gentleme:n',
Any irregularity of Returns of the forces under my
command, will not I hope be imputed to me, the exten-
sive busyness of superintending the safety of so vast a
territory as that which the Congress have committed to
my charge renders it impossible for me to attend to the
detail of Regiments, or in any reasonable time to collect
and digest the various returns, but I have given orders
to the Brigadiers to be as accurate as possible on this
suljject in their respective districts, and have no reason
from my knowledge of the men, to think they will be
deficient.
As a thorough knoAvledge of tlie present condition
of this Colony, of its strength and weakness, is certainly
a matter of very serious consideration, I shall lay before
Vol. II.— 16
24:2 THE LEE PAPERS.
the Board the best and most accurate inform atlon T am
able. Georgia is a state of much greater importance to
the Empire of America than generally supposed, at
least than what I myself imagin'd before I visited it,
the variety of navigal)le Rivers, commodious harbours,
and fine Inlets, the prodigious quantity of rice and im-
mense stocks of Cattle on the Islands and on the main;
liut above all, the gentleness and salubrity of the winter
seasons, with the conveniency of its situation for com-
merce with the West India Islands wou'd render it a
most valuable possession to the enemy ; the Altamaha
(a very noble River) already furnishes a considei'al^le
quantity, and may in time furnish any quantity of lum-
ber; the Garrison of S* Augustine, and indeed the whole
Province of East Florida draw their subsistence from
Georgia — if all intercourse with her were cut off that
nest of robljers and pirates wou'd probably fall to the
ground, and of course the Empire of the United States
become more round and entire — these circumstances
summon'd up together must evince the importance of
keeping Georgia or any part of it out of the hands of
the Enemy — the means of doing it demands the utmost
attention — I have turn'd my thoughts to the subject
and shall beg leave to submit the result to the considera-
tion of the Congress — The present State of the strength
of this Colony consists of Colonel Mcintosh's Battalion
(a return of wliich is here inclosed) a Company of Inde-
pendent artillery consisting of 3 officers ct 23 privates
with about twenty five hundred militia of all sorts, l)ut
in a very great part of these (as I learn from the au-
thority of their own Captains) very little confidence
can be placed — their principles being extreamly con-
taminated by a most pernicious banditti of Enemies to
the common liberty — Mcintosh's Battalion is really a
very fine one (one of the best I think on the Continent)
the Colonel himself a zealous most deserving citizen
and an active understanding Officer — in short, a man
whom I cou'd wish to reconunend to the esteem of the
Congress — but as perhaj^s it might appear a harsh task
THE LEE PAPERS. 243
to insi>;t on this Battalions acting with the necessary
rigor against some of their nearest connexions and re-
lations accused of being concerned in treasonalde prac-
tices ; it is my intenti<Mi to remove 'em either into South
or North Carolina Avhere they can be more serviceable
and have an ojiportunity of compleating themselves
(Avhicli in this State from the dearth of men is impossi-
ble) and ]'eplace 'em with an ecpial or greater numl^er
from South Carolina — Such is the present condition of
the strength of Georgia, very far from being adequate
to its defence. My scheme for its security is, as Row
gallies & arm'd boats are so well calculated for what is
caird the inland Navigation, I wou'd propose as great
a number as possibly can be obtain'd ; the nature of
the navigation gives 'em an infinite advantage over ves-
sels merely sailing which in these strait contin'd waters
have no room for manreuvering — they will secure the
Elvers against the predatory incursions of the Enemy
— prevent the desertion of Negroes — sweep the Coast
clear of Tenders ; but above all, facilitate the means of
the different States mutually assisting each other with
Troops, Cannon, Provision and other requisites which
is now effected with difficulty slowness and monstrous
expense. Three gallies are already on the stocks in
this Port, and we have arm'd and equipp'd several
boats with swivels and one Gun on the Bow of each —
the least of 'em capable of containing thirty men and
row'd with fourteen oars — Sailors of \vhom we tiud so
great a scarcity ai'e not necessary for this S])ecies of
vessels, the soldiers are competent to the busyness ; be-
sides the equipment of the^e gallies and boats, I pro-
pose establishing little Forts or Redoubts in certain
situati(ms on the Rivers S'^ Mary's, Satilla, Sapello and
Altamaha Avhich may enable us to make incursions
from time to time (when circumstances require it) into
East Florida, and render it dangerous for tliem to make
attempts of a similar nature into Georgia. These Re-
doubts or little Forts will likewise serve as places of
rendezvous, refreshment <fe i*etreat for Body's of Horse
244 THE LEE PAPERS.
Rangers which ought continually to be patroling on the
Frontier — such are the best methods after having con-
sulted the most intelligent people, which in my opinion
can be devised for the defence and security of this
State, unless indeed we cou'd prevail on the Province
to contract their frontier by breaking up all their set-
tlements on the other side of the Altamaha, which to
me, I confess appears, a wiser and more economical
measure, but this I am afi'aid is not to be accomplish'd.
I must now beg leave to lay before the Board a matter
of the highest concern, and which cei'tainly demands
the most serious attention of Congress, as unless reme-
died it may not only distress the circumstances of the
Pu])lic, but bring a disgrace on the American Character
— I mean the unconscionable advantag-es which indi-
viduals. Merchants Mechanics Farmers and Planters
are suifer'd to take of the public necessities. If boats,
horses, waggons, drugs, clothing, skins, necessaries, even
little refreshments such as fruit or garden stuff are
w^anting for the soldiers, no price being regulated the.
extortion is monstrous, the expenses of the War must
not only l)e extensively swell'd by this want of regula-
tion, but the officers and soldiers are disgusted to the
service by the toleration of such impositions ; for in-
stance the Virginians and North Caroliners are so much
out of temper with Charlestown on this head, that
shou'd it be again attack'd and the assistance of these
Troops be again requisite, I am afraid we shall find a
dangerous repugnance in them to march when ordered.
I most devoutly ^vish therefore that the Congress will
make it an ol)ject to remedy this evil — might they not
recommend to or enjoin the Legislatures of the differ-
ent states to appoint a Conunittee of Assessors from
their respective bodies to fix the pi'ice of the different
articles in their Pi'ovinces ^ whether this method is or
is not proper, I cannot pretend to say, but something!
must repeat, must l)e done.
The waste difficulty and expense arising from a
want of method in provisioning the Troops when as
THE LEE PAPERS. 245
seniMt'Cl in any particnlar spot n]^on an emergency are
so great that magazines ought to l)e establishVl in every
province, more particularly in those \Nliich have the
greatest probalHlity of being attack'd— by these means
the Troo])S will not only be l)etter fed but an immense
saving to the Continent — for the Contractors not being
pi'ess'd for time can at their leisure pui'chase every
species necessary in these parts where they are l)est and
cheapest Init \vhen a great and sudden demand is made
either for Cattle, Corn, Spirits tfc" they are under a ne-
cessity of takino; that \vhich is next at hand and frivino;
the sellers their own price — on this consideration in con-
currence with the President and Council of South Car-
olina I have thought it expedient to establish some
Magazines in South Carolina of Pork, Beef, Corn, &''
besides straw and whiskey which in these low damp
Countries is absolutely necessary ; but at all events this
establishment can be no loss to the Continent as the
Beef and Pork at least can always with advantage be
exported to the West Indies — Avere I at a less distance
from the Congress I shou'd not take the lil)erty of lay-
ing out a single dollar without ha^dng obtain'd th"" ap-
probation ; but at this distance I must assume such a
power or let the Puljlic affairs go to wreck and of
coui'se prove myself totally unworthy of the great trust
the Congress has repos'd in me.
I am, Gentlemen, with the greatest E,es]-)ect,
Your most obt. ct very humble Ser*'
Charles Lee.
To The Board of War ik Ordnance.
I have in almost all my letters to Congress repre-
sented my distress from Avant of Engineei's — I must
once more entreat that I may l>e furnish'd with some —
it is really impossible to carry on the public Ijusiness
without them.
246 THE LEE PAPERS.
To General John Armsteong.
Savannali, August y® 27tli, '76.
My Dear General,
I agree witli you entirely on the three works neces-
sary to be effected for the defence of Charlestown, I
had already pointed 'em out and given orders to the En-
gineer on the subject ; and I hope the people and army
will for a while shake oif their inherent lethargy to ac-
complisli these means of their temporal Salvation. The
People here are if possible more harum skarum than
their sister Colony. They will propose anything, and
after they have propos'd it, discover that they are in-
capable of performing the least. They have propos'd
securing their Frontiers by constant patroles of horse
Eangers, when the scheme is approv'd of they scratch
their heads for some days, and at length inform you
that there is a small difficulty in the ^vay ; that of the
impossilnlity to jorocure a single horse — their next pro-
ject is to keep their inland Navigation clear of Tenders
by a numerous fleet of Guarda Costa arm'd Ijoats, when
this is agreed to, they recollect that they have not a
single l:)oat - Upon the whole I shou'd not be surpris'd
if they were to propose mounting a body of Mermaids
on Alligators — I am extreamly concern'd to hear of
your indisposition, and think without flattery that every
precaution shou'd l^e taken for the preservation of so
valuable a Citizen, therefore if you are persuaded that
moving Northward is necessaiy for your health, I only
request that you will ^vrite to me a letter reju-esenting
the necessity, as otherwise I do not think myself autlior-
iz'd to grant the permission, as Congress had so posi-
tively ai)]iointed you to this department. I wish to
God the Climate had agreed l^etter with your Constitu-
tion as I know no General Officer so well suited to the
THE LEE PAPERS. 247
Conimaiul. You really in tlie vulgar phrase seem to
have ii'ot the leni>'th of their foot.
Adieu, D"" General,
Yours most affectionately,
Cpiaeles Lee.
Brisjadier General Armstrons^
Make Bullit (to Avhoni I shall write immediately)
send his Returns to the Board of War.
To THE President and Council of the State of
Geokgia.
Savanna, 28*^ August, 177(5.
Gentle^^ien,
As I am fully perswaded that this State is of the
highest importance to the common cause, and have its
individual welfare very much at heart, I must beg
leave to propose to his Excellency and the Council the
measures which I conceive necessary for the general in-
terest of the C<?>ntinent as well as particular interest of
Georgia — there is the greatest proV)al )ility that the gen-
tleness and salubrity of the winter season in this
Climate, but above all, the immense stock of Cattle in
your Islands have already determined the Enemy to
make this Province their Winter Quarters — but if this
last o]:)ject is entirely removed, they will probably lay
aside the design, and as the means of defence from a
scarcity of men, are less in this Province than in any
other, it is certainly our interest to divert their visit
to some other Province more caj)able of resisting.
When the Enemy are absolute masters of the sea, they
of course command the islands, the leavino- the Islands
stocked with cattle consequently is a very strange
scheme of politics, it is literally preparing a tal)le of
invitation. I must therefore Gentlemen most earnestly
conjure the Council as they regard the common cause,
248 THE LEE PAPEES.
and tlie Interests of their own Province to consent to
the removal of this Cattle immediately — Means may be
devisVl of preventinii: any very heavy loss falling on
the Proprietors by obliging the Commissaries to pur-
chase this Cattle in preference to other for the use of
the Army, but at any rate the measure is absolutely
necessary.
I hope it will not be thought acting out of my
Province, in lamenting the dangerous lenity which has
been shewn to various manifested foes to the pul)lic
liberty — it is in vain to march bodies of troops for the
security of this Province; all schemes of defence will
be ineffectual if such men as IVPKensey, Jolly, and
others of the same stamp are suffer'd after having held
a treasonable Correspondence with the Enemy, after
having examin'd the strength and weakness of the
Country to escaj)e out of your hands and carry to the
Enemy the most exact and minute intelligence, the
places and method in which they can most advantage-
ously attack you — I beg Gentlemen I may not be mis-
understood and that you will not supj)ose I am taking
upon me the airs of a Censor ; I only lament your ill-
tim'd humanity and as a servant of the United States
(to whom the sujDerintendence of the Safety of the
Southern District against the attacks of the Enemy is
committed), most earnestly entreat the President and
Council to co-operate with my endeavours by removing
at least from the particular situation where they can do
mischief, not only the manifested Enemies, but even
the suspected, and that for the future men who have
demonstrated they are destitute of every sentiment of
honour may not elude us by the ridiculous pledge of
their Parole.
1 am Gentlemen, with the greatest Respect
Your most ob* very humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To his Excellency the President & Council.
THE LEE PAPERS. 249
To THE President and Council of the State of
Georgia.
Savannali, August 30"' 17 70.
Gentlemen,
I am extreamly flatterM by your opinion tliat my
recommendation of the Field Officers for the additional
Battali(Mis voted by tlie Congress for the defence of
Georgia, will have great weight with your Convention
and can assure you most solemnly, that my zeal for the
Common Cause and my concern for the welfare and se-
curity of this Province in particular is so great, that no
considerations or partiality cou'd influence me to re-
commend those Avho are not in my judgment, well
qualifyed in the t^vo great necessary points, that of re-
cruiting expeditiously the Battalions, and afterwards
bringing 'em expeditiously into proper order to answer
the ends of soldiers — in this perswasion I venture to
recommend Colonel Elbert for the first or musket bat-
talion ; indeed his own acknowledgVl merits and com-
mon justice, give him the strongest title without further
recommendation. For his Lieut Colonel I wouVl pro-
pose Mr. Byrd, at present my Aid-de-Camp, Init his
connexion with me is so far from having influence in
the recommendation, that it wou'd have a contrary
effect, unless 1 seriously intended to render all the Ser-
vice in my power to the Colony, for the experience I
have of his capacity and spirit, will render his loss very
considerable for it is far from being an easy matter to
furnish ourselves with men capable of executing the
difficult and hazardous office of Aid de Camp with
coolness and distinctness. This gentleman besides from
his connexion in Virginia will find the greater facility
of procuring recruits — Mr. Jenefer of Maryland who
has served this Campaign as Volunteer, is the gentle-
man I wou'd recommend for the horse or Rifle Battal-
ions — He is a person of sense, spirit and honor, and
what he undertakes, he Avill ardently undertake ; His
250 THE LEE PAPERS.
Family and connexions are amongst tlie most consider-
able in Maryland, and I verily l)elieve that through the
influence and credit of his Brother, and other Rela-
tions, there is no man in that Pj'ovince or the neigh-
bourino; ^vho cou'd so soon raise a Rea^iment or the
greater part of a Regiment — Mr. Drayton of your
province I have been long acquainted with ; he served
in the same Regiment as myself ; what his merits are as
a Citizen you must be the best judges— He was always
with us esteem'd a man of merit and worth, and I
had myself a particular regard for him — I shou'd
therefore consider it as an additional obligation to those
I have already received from the Province, if he cou'd
be appointed Lieut. Colonel to this Battalion. I con-
fess I have not a little assumVl in even availing myself
of the politeness of the President and Council referring
matters of this moment to my oj)inion but must once
more repeat that I have made it my principal aim to
recommend in such a manner as to serve the Colony.
I must now Gentlemen return my sincerest thanks
to your Body for their generous conduct towards the
Continental Troops under my command — such acts of
generosity and attention not only entitle you to a greater
degree of alertness on the part of the soldiery, officers
& men, but I hope will facilitate the means of com-
pleatiug your establishment. On my part nothing shall
be wanting to inculcate in their minds a proper sense
of their obligation. I am Gentlemen,
Your most obt. & very hum Sert.
Charles Lee.
P. S. As Mr. Jenefer will set out tomorrow for
Maryland, and as no time shouVl be lost the Council
wou'd much ol>lio:e me in determinino; whether it will
be more prudent to suppose Inm apj)omted for the
Horse or RiHe Battalion, as his plan of recruiting nuist
be regulated accordingly.
THE LEE PAPERS. 251
Orders issued ox the Expedition to Georgia, Etc.
Charlestown, Aug* 7, 177G.
A Detaclnneiit of one Ca{)tain tliree Subalterns four
Sergeants and Seventy rank and File from the 1"' Bat-
talion of South Carolina — the same number from the 2d
— 180 from the 3*^ or Rangers with their common pro-
portion of Orticers to this number, and likewise 30 men
from the Artillery with the proportion of officers and
uon-commissiouVl officers which Colonel Roberts shall
determine to prepare themselves immediately for a
march — They are to receive their Instructions from
Gen" ^o^ve Avho will appoint two field officers to take
the command of 'em.
Parole Garden. Beaufort Aug. 12th, 1776.
Colonel Hardens Company to march or sail with
all possible expedition to Savanna — Capt. Joiner is to
direct the mode and provide the means.
Col. Kershaw's corps to return to their respective
homes as soon as j^ossilde. General Lee thanks 'em for
their alacrity and zeal they have shewn.
Col. Garden will Garrison the Fort by detachments
in the manner his judgment will admit.
The detachments of the Artillery from Charlestown
and of Moutries Regiment to proceed immediately to
Savanna in the manner Capt. Joiner directs.
Purisburg, August y^ 15**" 1776.
The Commanding Officers of the different Corps are
immediately to send in returns of the Waggons <fe
Horses in th'" respective Corps.
in consequence of the foregoing Orders.
252 THE LEE PAPERS.
MuUenberg's Regiment.
•Sumner's Ditto.
1 ammunition.
Major White Com'
of the Volunteers
Col. Huo;ers Reg'iment
Horses.
Waggons
11
42
8
36
1
2
18
5
20
Total 27 : 116
Parole Fiiicastle. Pnrisburg, Aug* 16, 1776.
Colonel Hugers and the Volunteers march to day to
M"" Bryants where they must be at eight oclock. The
acting Quarter Masters of each of these Corps to take
an account of the Waggons &l Geers they leave behind
at M'" Bryant's.
The}^ are to be put distinctly and mark'd that no
confusion may arise at their return ; a horse Guard of
one subaltern two Serjeants two Corporals and thirty
Privates to escort the Waggons and Horses round to
Savanna.
Muhlenburof's and Sumner's to march as soon as the
Boats return to M'' Bryant — they are to separate th"
Geers and Waggons in the same manner as directed to
the other two Corps, and appoint a horse Guard to con-
duct til'" Horses to Savanna — if any Horses are lost the
regiment will be resj)onsible for 'em.
Parole Bulloch. Savanna, Aug. 17, 1776.
As the different Corps are to V)e furnished with
Powder horns and shot bao-s The Colonels to make out
a return of the number wanting to completion.
THE LEE PAPERS. 253
Parole JPl/ifosh. Savanna, Aug. 18, 177G.
The Keeper of the Magazine to send in a return im-
mediately of the Guns, ammunition and every sort of
military a])})aratus not only in Savannah but the differ-
ent Posts.
After Orders. Every Corps, the Georgian Battalion
as well as the Troops lately arrived, to j)arade to-mor-
row morning at ten o'Clock, in order that th"" arms ac-
coutrements cloathing and Blankets may l)e inspected
— Colonel M'^Intosli will appoint the place of ])arade
and inform Brigade Major Simmonds of the place ap-
pointed.
Parole Bryan. Savanna Aug*^ 20, '76.
Any Officer who refuses to obey an order delivered
him ))y one of the General's Aid de Camps shall imme-
diately be put under arrest let his rank be whatever it
will.
Parole Sunhury. Savanna, Aug* 21, 1776.
Colonel Mughlenburg's Regiment to be supplied
with two Hints per man from the Stores — Capt. Har-
den's Company to furnish themselves immediately with
skins for Monkeshins and leggings — powder horns and
shot bags. Those who have not arms shall l:)e furnish'd
at Sunbury to which place they and Muhlenburg's are
to march to-morrow niornino; — Hardens to have two
spare Flints.
Col° Mughlenburg's Regiment h Capt. Hard en's
Company are to parade this afternoon at half past five
in the rear of the Garden Battery.
Parole Elhert. Savannah, Aug* 22d
A Garrison Court martial to be held to morroAV to
254 THE LEE PAPERS.
try all Prisoners brought before 'em — tlie necessary Wit-
nesses to l)e summou'd.
A Captain & fifty men for fatigue— tlie Quarter
master to he apply'd to for twenty Axes to cut timber
for tlie construction of certain works tliouglit necessary.
Parole Houston^ Savanna 23'^ Aug* 1776.
The Officers of the different Corps whose sokliers are
not yet supplied with Dearskins to dress for Mankas-
kins <fe Leggings are this day to apply to the Quarter
Master of the Georgia Battalion who is to deliver 'em.
After Orders. As the dates of the Commissions
of the Georgia Battalion commanded by Colonel Mcin-
tosh are on the first of January and as a late positive
Eesolve of the Continental Congress declaring the 1^'
<fe 2*^ Battalions of South Carolina to be on the Con-
tinental establishment explicitly gives to the said Bat-
talions rank from the fourth of November there can be
no room for dispute on this subject — the two Carolina
Battalions have the precedence of course.
After Orders. The Officers of the different Corps
are immediately to send in a return of their convales-
cents &J of such who are not so indispos'd 1)ut Avliat
with fresh air and attendance will in all probability
speedily recover.
Parole . Savanna, 25 Aug* 1776.
The Artillery of South Carolina agreeable to Re-
solve of the Continental Congress take rank from the
of Nov-" last.
Savanna, 24 Aug' 1776.
After Order's. The Party of a Captain and Sixty
men which was oi'dered to be in readiness to march to-
THE LEE PAPERS. 255
morrow morning t(^ Skidaway and post themselves ac-
cording to tlie directions of an Officer of Col. M'ln-
tosli's Battalion who is to conduct and inform 'em of
the nature of the Country and the duty they are to do.
Parole Fincastle. Savanna 25 An^. 76.
Besides the party already ordered for fatigue a
sul)altern and thirty men of Major Mason's Detach-
ment from Thompson's Kangers are to parade to mor-
Yow morning precisely at six o'clock.
Savanna, Angnst y* 28th
2n(l Lt. De la Plaine of the Georgian Battalion is
appointed to do duty as V^ Lt. Ensign Morrison of
2d Lt. 'till the pleasure of the Congress is further
known. The Court ^Lartial of which Colonel Huger
was President is approv'd of and dissolv'd — the sen-
tence of Corporal punishment on the different Prisoners
is commuted by the General into five days Confinement
in the black hole — where They are to be confinVl to
rice and water — They are to be convey' [d] thither to-
morrow morning — a Corj^oral and six to mount on the
place of their confinement and if it is discover'd that
any other provisions are Convey'd to 'em — the Corporal
will l)e try'd for disobedience of orders and a violation
of his duty.
To Tiffi Governor at Cape Frakcois.
Savannah^ Awg. 30th, 1776.
Sir,
It will be necessary in addressing a letter of this
nature, so abruptly to your excellency, that I should
inform you Avho the writer is. I have served as lieu-
tenant-colonel in the English service, colonel in the
Portuguese, afterwards as aid du camp to his Polish
256 THE LEE PAPERS.
majesty, with the rank of major general. Ha\ang
purchased a small estate in America, I had determined
to retire, for the remainder of my days, to a peaceful
asylum : when the tyranny of the ministi-y, and court
of Great Britain, forced this continent to arms, for the
preservation of their liberties, I was called, by the
voice of the people, to the rank of second in command.
I make no doubt of this letter's being kindly received
by your Excellency, both in the character of a good
Frenchman, and friend to humanity. The present con-
juncture of affairs renders the interest of France and
of this continent one and the same thing ; every obser-
vation drawn from history must evince, -that it was the
exclusive commerce of these colonies, which enabled
Great Britain to cope with France, gave to her a de-
cided superiority in marine, and, of course, enabled her
in the frequent wars betwixt the two nations to reduce
her rival to the last extremity. This was the case, so
peculiarly in the last war, that had the British ministry
persevered. Heaven knows what would have been the
fate of France. It follows, that if France can obtain
the monopoly, or the greater part of this commerce,
her opulence, strength, and prosperity, must grow to a
prodigious height ; and nothing can be more certain,
than that if America is enabled to preserve the inde-
pendence she has now declared, the greater j^art of this
commerce, if not the monopoly, must fall to the share
of Fj'ance.
The imaginary plans of conquest of Lewis the
Fourteenth, had they Ijeen realized, would not have
established the power of that monarchy, on so solid
and permanent a basis, as the simple assistance, or
rather friendly intercourse with this continent, ^^•ill
inevitably give. Without injustice, or the colour of in-
justice, but, on the contrary, only assuming the patron-
age of the rights of mankind, France has now in her
power to become not oidy the greatest, but the most
truly glorious monarchy which has appeared on the
stage of the world. In the first place, her possessions-
THE LEE PAPERS. 257
iu the islands will he secured against all possil)ility of
attack ; the royal revenues innnensely increased, her
peoj)le eased of their present burdens, an eternal in-
citement be presented to their industry, and the means
of increase by the facility of providing sustenance for
their families nudtiplied. In short, there is no saying
what degree of eminence, happiness, and glory, she
may derive from the independence of this continent.
Some visionary writers have indeed asserted, that could
this country once shake off her European trannnels, it
would soon become more formidable alone, from the
virtue and energy, natural to a young people, than
Great Britain w'ith her colonies united in a state of
dependency. But the men who have built such hypo-
theses must be utter strangers to the manners, genius,
disposition, turn of mind, and circumstances of the
continent. Their disposition is manifestly to agricul-
ture and the simple life of shepherds. As long as vast
tracts of land remain unoccupied, to which they can
send colonies (if I may so express it) of their oif-
spi'ing, they "will never entertain a tliought of marine
or manufactures. Their ideas are solely confined to
lal)our and to planting, for those nations, who can, on.
the cheapest terms, furnish them with the necessary
utensils for laljoui'ing and planting, and clothes for
tlieir families ; and till the whole vast extent of con-
tinent is fully stocked with people, they wdll never
entertain another idea. This cannot be ejffiected for
ages; and w^hat then may haj^pen, it is out of the line
of politicians to lay any stress upon : most probably,
they will be employed in wars amongst themselves, be-
fore they aim at foreign conquests. In short, the ap-
prehension is too remote to rouse the jealousy of any
reasonable citizen of a foreign state. On the other
hand, it is worthy your Excellency's attention to con-
sider what will be the consequences, should Great
Britain succeed in the present contest. America, it
is true, will be wretched and enslaved ; Init a number
of slaves may compose a formidable army and fleet.
70L. II.— 17
258 THE LEE PAPERS.
The proximity of situation, witli so great a force, en-
tirely at the disposal of Great Britain, will put in her
power to take possession of your islands on the first
rupture. Without pretending to the spirit of pro-
phesy, such, I can assert, will be the event of the next
war ; upon the whole, I must repeat, that it is for the
interest, as well as glory of France, to furnish us with
every means of supporting our liberties, to effect which,
w^e only demand a constant systematic supply of the
necessaries of war. We do not require any aid of
men, we have numbers, and, I believe, courage sufficient
to carry us triumphantly through the struggle. We
require small arms, powder, field-pieces, w^oollen and
linen to clothe our troops : also drugs, particularly
bark: in return for w^hich, every necessary provision
for your islands may be expected, as rice, corn, lumber,
<fec. If, indeed, you could spare us a few able engi-
neers, and artillery officers, they may depend ui3on an
honourable reception and comfortable establishment.
The Sieur de la Plain, one of your countrymen, now
engaged in the cause of the United States of America
will have the honour of delivering this letter to your
Excellency. I have no doubt of his being received
w^ith that politeness, and kindness, to be expected from
a gentleman of your rank and character.
I am, with the highest respect, your Excellency's
most obedient servant,
Charles Lee.
To His Excellency the Governor at Cape Fi-an^^ois.
Orders.
September 9*^ [1776.]
Gen. Lee thinks it his duty before his departure to
express the high sense he entertains of the conduct and
THE LICE PAPERS. 259
behavior of the colonels and officers of the several bat-
talions of South-Carolina, both as gentlemen and sol-
diers; and begs leave to assure them, that bethinks
iiimself obliged to report their merit to the Continental
Cono-ress.
To THE President of Congress.
Princeton, October 10, 1776.
Sir:
The ridiculous idea, that Lord Howe has some rea-
sonable terms to offer, and that the Congress are desi-
rous of their being conuuunicated to the people, gains
ground every day. This idea is strengthened })y the
industry of the disaffected, and does intinite mischief ;
I would therefore, with submission, offer it to the consid-
eration of Congress, whether it would not be politick, in
order to efface these impressions, suffer some gentlemen
in the simple character of individuals who are supposed
to have influence, to propose a conference with his Lord-
ship on this subject, and demand what terms he has to
offer. He most assuredly has none, but unconditional
submission. His pul;)lic declaration ought, it is true, to
satisfy every reasonable man of this being the ultima-
tum ; but in our present circumstances, the unreasonable
and weak must be satisfied, as well as the sensible
and reasonaljle. A committee deputed from the Con-
gress after what has happened, would be highly impro-
per, as it would convey an idea that they themselves
did not consider independency absolutely fixed, for
which reason it Avould be more prudent that they should
suffer one or two persons in whom they can confide, to
propose the conference in their private characters, who
may afterwards relate, explain, and comment at large
on the circumstances. I pei'haps may be wrong in my
conjectures, but as I am persuaded it would have a sal-
utary effect, I cannot reconcile it to my conscience to
withhold my opinion, an opinion, I can assure }'ou. Sir,
260 THE LEE PAPEES.
in wliicli I am not singular, for many very sensil;)le men,
and the most active friends to the cause in this Province
and the others I have passed through, concur with me.
At all events, I hope the Congress will not think me
impertinent, and presuming in intruding it, l)ut impute
it to my anxiety and zeal for the publick welfare.
This Province is so much weaker in numbers than I
imagined in leaving Philadelphia, that the sooner the
Virginia battalions march, at least as far as Brunswick,
the better. You must, Sir, excuse the l)lots of this let-
ter as I have not paper for a more legible copy.
I am. Sir, with the greatest respect, your most hum-
ble obedient Servant
Chaeles Lee.
To the President of Congress.
To THE Peesident or Coistgeess.
Amboy, October 12, 1776.
Sie:
The Hessians who were encamped opposite this post,
last night disappeared, and there is the greatest reason
to think that they have quitted the island entirely,
which announces some great manoeuvre to be in agita-
tion. I am confident they will not attack General
Washington's lines : such a measure is too absurd for a
man of M*" Howe's genius ; and unless they have re-
ceived flattering accounts from Burgoyne that he will
be able to efEectuate a junction, (which I conceive they
have not) they will no longer remain kicking their
heels at New York. They will put the place in a re-
spectable state of defence, which with their connu; nd of
the waters may be easily done, leave four or live thou-
sand men, and direct their operations to a more decisive
object. They will infallil)ly i)roceed either immediate-
ly up the river Dela^vare ^vith their whole troops, or
what is more probable, land somewhere about South
THE LEE PAPERS. 261
Amboy or Shrewsbuiy, and marcli straight to Trenton
or Burlington. We must suppose every case. On the
supposition that tliis will be the case, what are we to
do i What force have we ? What means have ^ve to
prevent their possessing themselves of Philadelphia?
General Washington's army cannot possibly kee[) pace
with them. The length of his route is not only infinite-
ly greater, but his obstructions almost insuperable ; in
short, ])efore he could cross Hudson river, they might
be lodged and strongly fortified on both banks of the
Delaware. I shall make no apologies to Congress for
thus so freely offering my opinion ; the importance of
the matter is a sufiicient aj^ology. For Heaven's sake,
rouse yourselves ; for Heaven's sake, let ten thousand
men Vje immediately assembled and stationed somewhere
aliout Trenton. In my opinion your whole depends
upon it. I set out immediately for Head Quarters,
where I shall communicate my apprehension that such
will be the next operation of the enemy, and urge the
expediency of sparing a part of his army (if he has any
to sj^are) for this object.
I am, Sir, with the greatest respect, your most obe-
dient humble Servant
Charles Lee.
To the President of Congress.
To General Gates.
Fort Constitution, October y^ 14th.
My Dear Gates,
I write this scroll in a hurry — Colonel Wood will
describe the position of our Army, which in my own
breast I do not approve — uite?' 7ios the Congress seem
to stumble every step — I do not mean one or two of
the Cattle, but the whole Stable — I have been very
free in delivering my opinion to 'em — in my opinion
General Washino^ton is much to blame in not menacing^
262 THE LEE PAPEKS.
'em witli resignation unless they refrain from unhing-
ing the army 1)y their absurd interference — Keep us
Tionderoga ; much depends upon it — We ought to have
an army on the Delaware — I have roar'd it in the ears
of Congress, but carent aurihus.
Adieu, my Dr. Friend ; if we do meet again, why we
shall smile.
Yours, C. Lee.
To Benjamin Rush.
Camp at Philipsburg Nov. y^ 2"^^ 1776.
D^ EusH,
A Dragoon Deserter from Burgoyne's Regt. will
deliver you this — He is a very intelligent fellow and I
l)elieve very honest. He is by trade a Weaver and I
recommend him to your protection, 1:)y which I mean
that you will put him in the best way to avail himself
of his weaving talents — We are now, thank God, and
the inertness of the Enemy, in a very tolerable secure
conditioD. M'" Howe has but two moves by which He
can distress us, and I flatter myself We shall be able to
check-mate him in l)oth — the various skirmishes We
have had with him have been rather favorable to us
than the reverse — three of the four have fallen on my
division — Glover, an admiral)le officer acting Brigadier
fairly beat 'em — a shooting inatcli l)etwixt the Riflers
and Hessian Chasseurs demonstrated oui" superiority at
this time the Parties were equal in numbers, and We
won the match We lost l)ut one Man, buryed ten of
theirs and took three. M'^Dougal, it is true, in the last
affair was oblig'd to retreat l)y the superiority of their
Artillery ; but He lost no credit — the loss on their side
was very considerable in short He is a sensible brave
Officer. When We are once fairly out of this danin'd
cul de sac I think you will hear good accounts of us ;
We shall I am persuaded, harrass 'em most damnably
THE LEE PAPERS. 263
Our only distresses seem to ine to arise from a total
want of method and a little narrow dirty economy in
all things relating to the IIos])ital and Quarter Mastei-
General departments — thrice since my ari-ival have We
been in the Jaws of perdition from a scarcity of teams
— for God's sake get some military men into your Sen-
ate, for inter nos all the resolves of Congress relatins:
to Military affairs are absurd, ridiculous and ruinous.
They i-aise the laughter and provoke the indignation of
every JNIan of Common Sense. AVhere is the Cloathing
so long promis'd for the Ai'my ? Why do you not
make an handsome establishment for Engineers I We
have three very able Foreigners in my family, and you
put New-England Carjienters at the head of this im-
poi'tant Department. Why have you not Magazines
established in various Provinces? It wou'd be curious
oeconomy in a master of a Family who kept a constant
taV)le to send every day to the Tavern for bottles of
AA^ine rather than lay in a few pipes in his cellar. Just
so you act.
As it is most probal)le that the operations in this
part of tke World \x\\\ cease in three weeks or a month,
I must intreat your Higk Mightinesses to let me return
to my Southern district, as I dread the podagraferous
quality of this freezing Climate. Don't you think it
possible the Enemy may direct their course towards
Philadelphia when They find themselves baffled here ?
A Coi'ps of Observation shou'd in my opinion Ije sta-
tioned at Trenton or Bristol — it is late — God bless you.
Good night — my love to the Lees and Bob Morris.
Yours, Dr Rush, Most Sincei-ely,
Charles Lee.
P. S. I Avish you would desire little Bass to send
me the bottle of Panacea.
To Doctor Benjamin Rush,
Member Continental Congress,
Philadelphia.
264 THE LEE PAPEES.
Gen. Schuyler to P. R. LivmGSTOJs-.
Albany Nov' 3'^ 1776.
Sill,
I do myself tlie honor to enclose you an Extract of
a Letter from General Gates of the 31'* ult° with copy
of one from Major Hoisington to him. If Sir John
Johnson left Canada at the Time the Deserters mention,
he has probably met with such Difficulties, as have
obliged him to return, as I think he could not suljsist
from tliat Time to this in the woods. We have no less
than eleven different Scoutts traversing the Country
l)etween Ticonderoga and fort Stanwix, so tliat I am in
hopes should the Enemy attempt to penetrate to the
Mohawk River, we shall have such early information
as to enable us to meet him with a sufficient force. I
have already ordered two Regiments from Ticonderoga
to Tryon County and about one thousand of the Militia,
so that our force there exclusive of the Militia of that
County will amount to Two thousand men besides the
Garrison of Fort Schuyler.
I wish the Convention would order the depth &,
Breadth of Hudson River to be carefully taken, at such
places as they conceive would be most proper effectually
to obstruct the Navigation. Verplanks point or Jan
Canteen Hook may be proper places, j)erhaps the latter
the most eligible of any.
I propose taking the Earliest opportunity that is
afforded me to prepare everything for it — at present I
cannot, as I have neither Troops nor Carpenters the
latter being all employed in constructing Barracks.
I am Sir with great Respect,
Your most obedient humble Serv*
Ph. Schuylee.
Peter R. Livingston, Esq. Prest.
• THE LEE PAPERS. 265
[Indostd ill the preceding letter.']
To iri;^ ExcELLEXCY Major General Gates.
Iiitt'lHuvnce given by four Deserters from Canada,
Avlio enlisted out of Prison at Quel)eck into tlie lloyal
Emigrant Regiment commanded by Col° APClean is,
that on tlie 25'" of 8eptr. they left ^Montreal and before
they left the above j)lace Sir John Johnson with the
Indians and Canadians <fe 8'*" Regiment had marched to
attack the Inhabitants on the Mohawk River and meet
General Hurgoyne at Al])any who has ordered all the
Forces from Chamblee & Sorell to S*^ Johns with the
Marines and train of Artillery tfe Sailors, to l)ut three
men in each vessel. Like\vise as they passed on each
side of the Lake on Sunday the 6**^ Instant, heard a very
heavy Cannonade on the Lake, supposed to be with the
Fleet.
The above Deserters were found 1)y one of my scouts
about 40 miles out, destitute of provisions and very
weak. Tliev l)einii: desirous to m> to Head Quarters
near New York I have passed the above Deserters for
that place.
I am Sir,
Your most obedient humble Serv*
JOAB HoiSINGTON.
New Bury, Oct. 12'*^ 1776.
Endorsed : M"" Hoisington ^vith the Rank of Major
Commands several Companies of Rangers embodied in
Gloucester <fc Cumberland Counties raised to serve
during the war subject to the Convention of this State
and the Commander of the Northern Army.
266 THE LEE PAPERS. •
To Dr. Benjamix Franklin.
Camp at Pliillipsburg, November 6'^ 1776.
Dear Sir:
The gentleman who will deliver you this, was, as I
understand, sent by Congress to General Washington.
He was to have given specimens of his abilities as engi-
neer, and been recommended accordingly. Whether he
is a great engineer or no, I cannot pretend to say, as he
has had no fair opportunity of displaying his talents.
The few small works he has thi'own up have been in
haste, at tlie same time labouring under the disadvan-
tage of not being aide to explain himself to the work-
men. From the little I can judge of him, he is a man
of capacity arid knowledge, and I am told by his coun-
trymen, that his fort lies in surveying geographically
and military a country. I know not any kind of officer
more wanted in Ameiica than a military surveyor of
those parts which are likely to be the scene of action.
General Washington and myself have therefore con-
curred in opinion that he should begin with the Jer-
seys ; and if he gives satisfactory proofs of his talents
in this line, to recommend Mm to Conoress for this im-
portant office. I must beg leave to recommend him to
your protection and patronage, and request that you
will furnish him ^vith the necessary instruments. And
as I am so well acquainted with j^our liberal way of
thinking and manners, it will l)e unnecessary to desii-e
you to show him all possil^le personal civilities.
So far for Monsieur Imbert. You will naturalh^
expect sometliing from me on your present situation.
We liave by proper positions bi'ought Mr. Howe to his
lie ]^>lvs ultra. He has therefore apjxarently given [u]:)]
all hopes of taking us prisoners, as I l)elieve he lately
sanguinely ju'omised himself. Monsieur Imbert, as you
know French, will be able to ex[)lain the circumstances
of both armies. The spirit of our present troops is
upon the whole good, and if America is lost, it is not
THE LEE PAPERS. 207
in my ojiiuion owing to want of courage in your sol-
diers, 1)\it, pardon me, to want of prudence in yourliigli
miglitiiR'sses. Adieu ! God ])less you, my dear sir.
Live long and make your country and friends as liappy
as you have rendered yourself admirable in the eyes of
all good and sensil^le men.
Yours, most sincerely,
Charles Lee.
D'' Benjamin Franklin,
Member of the Continental Couofress.
From General Washington.
[^Instructions.^
Sir :
The late movement of the enemy, and the probaV)il-
ity of their having designs upon the Jerseys, confirmed
by sundry accounts from deserters and prisoners, ren-
dering it necessary to throw a body of troops over the
Korth river, I shall immediately follow ; and the com-
mand of the army wliich remains, after General Heath's
division marches to Peekskill, devolving upon you, I
have to request —
That you will be particularly attentive that all the
intrenching and other tools, excepting those in imme-
diate use, l^e got together and delivered to the Quarter-
master General, or Major Reed, who heretofore has been
intrusted with them.
That you will direct the commanding officer of Artil-
lery to exert himself in having the Army well sup^^lied
with musket cartridges ; for this purpose, a convenient
place at a distance should l)e fixed uj^ou that the busi-
ness may go on uninterrupted.
That no troops who have been furnished with arms,
accoutrements, or camp utensils, be suffered to depart
the camp Ijefore they have delivered them either to the
Commissary of stores or the Quartermaster General, or
268 THE LEE PAPERS.
his assistant, as the case may be, taking receipts there-
fore, in exoneration of those which they have passed.
In a particuLar manner, let the tents be taken care of,
and committed to the Quartermaster General's care.
A little time now must manifest the enemy's designs,
and point out to you measures proper to be pursued by
that part of the Army under your command. I shall
give no directions, therefore, on this head, having the
most entire confidence in your judgment and military
exertions. One thing, however,! will suggest, namely:
that as the appearance of eml^arking troops for the
Jerseys may be intended as a feint to weaken us, and
render the strong post we now hold more vulnerable, or
if they find that troops are assembled with more expe-
dition, and in greater numbers than they expected on the
Jersey shore to oppose them ; — I say, as it is possible,
from one or the other of these motives, they may yet pay
the army under your command a visit, it will be unne-
cessary, I am persuaded, to recommend to you the pro-
priety of putting this post, if you stay at it, into a
proper posture of defence, and guarding against sur-
prises. But I would recommend it to your considera-
tion whether, under the suggestion above, your retiring
to Croton Bridge and some strong post still more east-
erly (covering the passes through the Highlands) may
not be more advisaV)le than to run the hazard of an at-
tack with unequal numbers. At any rate, I think all
your baggage and stores, except such as are necessary
for immediate use, ought to be the northward of Cro-
ton river.
In case of your removal from hence, I submit to the
consideration of yourself and tlie general officers with
you, the propriety of destroying the hay, to prevent
the enemy fi*om reaping the l)enefit of it.
You will consider the post at Croton's (or Pines)
Bridge as under your immediate care, as also that lately
occupied by General Parsons, and the other at Wright's
Mill. The first I am taught to ])elieve is of conse-
quence ; the other two can be of little use while the
THE LEE PAPERS. 269
enemy liover aljoiit tlie Nortli River, and upon our
right iiaiik.
Gen. Wooster, from the state of Connectieut, and
by order of the Governour, witli several regiments of
Militia, are now I presume in or about Stamford. They
were to receive orders from me ; of course they are to
do it from you. There are also some other regiments
of Connecticut Militia, who came out with General
Saltonstall, and arniexed to General Parsons's Brigade,
and others Avhich you must dispose of as occasion and
circumstances shall require; but as by the late re-
turns, many of those regiments are reduced to little
more than a large company, I recommend the discharge
of all such supernumerary officers, and the others an-
nexed to some brigade.
As the season will soon oblige the enemy to betake
themselves to winter-quarters, and will not permit our
troops to remain much longer in tents, it may be well
to consider in time where magazines of jDrovisions and
forage should be laid in for the army on the east side
Hudson's river. Peekskill, or the neighbourhood,
would, I should think, he a very advantageous post for
as many as can be supported there. Croton Bridge
may 2:>roba])ly be another good deposite, or somewhere
more easterly, for the rest, as the Commissary, Quarter-
master, <fec., may assist in pointing out.
It may not be amiss to remind you, for it must (as
it ought to) have some influence on your deliberations
and measures, that the Massachusetts Militia stand re-
leased from their contract the 17th this instant, and
that the Connecticut Militia are not engaged for any
fixed period ; and by what I can learn, begin to grow
very impatient to return, few indeed of whom being
left. If the enemy should remove the whole, or the
greatest part of their force, to the west side of Hud-
son's river, I have no doubt of your following, with
all possible despatch, leaving the Militia and invalids
to cover the frontiers of Connecticut, tfe*^' in case of
need.
270 THE LEE PAPEES.
Given at Head-quarters, near the White Plains, this
10**^ November, 1776.
G°' Washiis^gton.
To Major General Lee.
To General Greene.
Camp at North Castle Nov'" y^ 11th. [1776.]
Mt Br General,
If you should be taken by the enemy it would be
really a very serious affair, for I should have a chance
of losing my horse and sulky to prevent so melancholy
an event, I must request that you Avill send wd ujd to
me by the Serv who will deliver you this.
1 have just received a letter with the good news of
the total defeat of the Cherokees I begin to think my
friend Howe has lost the campaign and that his most
Gracious Majesty must I'equest a Body of Russians to
reestablish order tranquillity happiness and good gov-
ernment amongst his deluded subjects of America.
God bless you, my dr General May you live long and
reap twice a year an abundant crop of laurels.
Yours most sincerely
Charles Lee.
From General Washington.
Peekskill, November 12^^ 1776.
Dear Sir:
Enclosed you will find a copy of sundry resolutions
of Congress, which came to hand since I left the Plains.
They will discover to you their opinion as to the neces-
sity of taking the most early measures to levy the new
Army. The resolves cannot have any operation but in
THE lp:e papers. 271
the instance of the Kliode Island regiments, Com-
missioners having come from the states of Massachu-
setts and Connecticut, and being on the way from
^laryland. They will be superseded, too, if any have
arrived from Rhode Island ; therefore the resolutions
are under that condition.
As it is of the last importance that the recruiting
service should be l)egan, I must request, if the Com-
missioners are not arrived from Rhode Island, that you
will call upon Colonel Hitchcock, who will inform you
of the officers recommended to that State by General
Greene, tt'' and give orders to them to begin their in-
listments immediately, on the terms and conditions
allowed by Congress. Such of them as agree to stay,
and will undertake the business, will l)e commissioned
accordino- to the rank assis^ned 'em in that recommenda-
tion. I have not got it by me, having sent it away
with my papers before I came from Harlem.
In respect to the militia, you ^\'ill try your influence
to get them to remain ; perhaps the requisition from
Congress for that purpose may have some effect,
though I have l^ut little expectation that it will.
. The enclosed letter for Colonel Darby you will
please to send in by the first flag.
I cannot conclude without reminding you of the
military and other stores about your encampment and
at North Castle, and to press the removal of them
above Croton Bridge, or such other places of security
as you may judge proper. General Howe having sent
no part of liis force to Jersey yet, makes the measure
more necessary, as he may perhaps turn his views
another way, and attempt their destruction.
I have directed Colonel Putnam to examine the
passes in the Highlands eastward of this place, and to
lay out such works as may l)e necessary to secure 'em.
When you remove your present encampment, you will
assign such a number of men to the several jDOsts as
you shall deem sufiicient for their defence.
I hope the trial of Major Austin for burning the
272 THE LEE PAPERS.
houses wall not be forgot ; publick justice requires that
it should be brought on as soon as it can.
I am, tfe'^
Go. WASHiisrGTOisr.
To Major General Lee.
Resolves of Congress.
\JEnclosed in the foregoing letter.']
In Congress, Nov. 4^*^ 1776.
Whereas it is manifest, that unless effective meas-
ures are immediately taken for I'e-inlisting the Army,
the Safety of the States may be greatly endangered.
Hesolvhl^ That the President be desired to write to
the Commander in Chief and inform him that if upon
receipt of this resolution. Commissioners from the re-
spective States, for the 23urpose of appointing Officers,
shall not have arrived, that then he after consulting &
advising with such of his Generals, as he can conve-
niently call together, immediately grant warrants to
such of the Officers from the respective States, who
have not Commissioners present, authorized as afore-
said, as he shall think deserv^ing of Commissions, that
the Officers so appointed proceed with the utmost ex-
pedition to recruit their regiments to their full comple-
ment ; that Comm"^ be sent to Genl. Washington as
soon as possible to be given to such officers as he shall
appoint l)y Warrant, in consequence of the foregoing
Kesolution.
That the Commander in Chief be desired to take
sncli steps, as lie shall think most proper, for continu-
ing the Militia now in Camp, that for this purpose, he
write to such of the States as now have Militia in the
government of New York, requesting their assistance
in this business and that he further be directed to appl}'
THE LEE PAPERS. 273
to the iieiirlibonriDc: States for sueli additional aid as lie
may require.
By Ord"" of Congress
Jno. Hancock, Prest.
To General Washington.
Camp at Phillipsbiirg, November ye 12tli,
nine o'clock, P.M.
Dear General,
This instant came express from Colonel Tupj^er
(stationed opposite to Dobb's Ferry,) one David Keech..
The substance of his intellio-ence is as follo'ws : That
the enemy . began their march at nine this morning,,
down the river, with their baggage, artillery, &° &" ;:
that the man of war and t^vo store ships had just set
sail, and were makinof down — I mean those whi(;h
came up last. The three ships still lie off TaiTytown
and Sino'-sino' — two at the former, one at the latter.
Keech says the whole army have quitted Dobbs's Ferry,,
and imagines the rear have ])y this time reached King's
Brido;e.
I am far from being satisfied with the conduct of
our scouts. I do not think they venture far enough,,
for they in general bring back very lame, imperfect ac-
counts. But I have projected a plan for breaking in.
at least, upon Rogers's part}^, and believe I shall suc-
ceed.
The sentence on Austin is that he should l)e repri-
manded ; but I have ordered a new Court Martial, with
a charge of wanton, barbarous conduct, unljecomiug not
only an officer, but a human creature.
General Lincoln and the Massachusetts committee-
are using their efforts to detain the Militia. Whether
they succeed. Heaven only knows. Hitchcock and
Yarnum do not recollect the recommendation of Gen-
eral Greene ; but I have ordered them to give me a list
YoL. II.— 18
274 TIIE LEE PAPERS.
of those whom they think ought to be recommended ;
for it is now too Late to refer to Greene, as the Commis-
sioners are expected every hour.
I wish to God you were here, as I am, in a manner,
a stranger to their respective merits. When the list is
made out, I shall inform myself, (as well as I can) if
their recommendation is impartial, and proceed accord-
ingly.
I am, dear General, yours, most sincerely.
Charles Lee.
To his Excellency General Washington.
From Gex. David Wooster.
Greenwich, 12*^ Nov. 1776.
DexVr Sr.
I tliis moment Ree/^ your favor of yesterday & this
will be handed you by Capt. Hills, and beg leave to
acquaint you that I have posted the Reg* belonging
Norwalk, Stanford and Greenwich in their respective
Towns for the security of them — of the other three
Keg*^ there are but four hundred and thirty yet arrived,
including officers l)ut more are expected and about
ninety Light Horse We have no Tents and but about
three Rounds of Powder and Ball per man — the Towns
to the Eastward had furnished the Militia as they came
to join the Continental Army till they were exhausted
— I sent my Aid de Camp yesterday to wait on Gen
Washington for an order to Draw Powder and Lead,
but an order from you would serve the same purpose.
I shall strictly attend your orders and am Dear Sir
most respectfully
Y' very humble Servant
D. W[ooster]
Tlie Hon^^*^ Maj. Gen. Lee.
THE LEE PAl»i:ilS. 275
Fk():\[ Lieut. Col. AVilfjam Palfrey.
Stamford Wednesday Evening, IS'** Nov' 177G.
My DEAii General,
III const!C[uence of orders I receiv'd from General
AVasliington, I shall set "ofP early tomorrow morning
fi'om this Place for Peek's Kill, cfe shall take my
([uarters at Ca])!" Drake's about 2 miles on this side the
Kill, and where I shall attend to transact the Business
of my office. If circumstances would permit, I should
be glad to remain here — it is ten miles nearer Head
Quarters, and a A\'ell known road — but I must obey
orders.
I intended to have o-one to Peeks Kill this Mornincr,
but Avas prevented by an alarm, which was given about
ten o'clock, a. m. that the Enemy were landing a number
of men from one of their ships of wai* at a place called
Lono: Neck al )0ut ionv miles East from here. A3 I Avas
the oldest officer m the place I took the Command, &
mustered all the men who I could persuade to go;
they consisted princijially of returned Militia — Invalids
stationed in the Town <fc a few of the Inhabitants to
the amount of about fifty. I marched them down with
all possi]>le Expedition, crossed a small Creek in a
Gondola, l)ut before we had got to the spot the Enemy
had compleated their Business & retreated — A Xumber
of Cattle were on the Xeck, they kill'd only two which
they carried ofP, as we discovered by the Tracks of
blood to the Waters Edge. There was about fifty of
them, and they landed in three Boats. Shortly after
we got down the Man of War weighVl anchor, came to
sail, cfe stood down the sound towards New York. The
shore here is amazingly Expos'd and I am confident if
500 men were to land in the Night they might make
themselves Masters of all the stock hereabouts.
As I have receiv'd no orders respecting the payment
of the Militia — I should be exceeding glad to know
276 THE LEE PAPEES.
wla ether I am to pay them or not. Unless the greatest
care imaginable is taken, the Continent will be subject
to the grossest impositions. It is well known that
many of these Gentry have deserted — they deserve no
pay <fe they should receive none. No warrant should
be granted upon an abstract, unless it is certified
to be just, by the command^ officer of the Brigade and
afterwards examhied by Colonel Scammel to see if it
be right Cast <fe the j^ay agreeable to the Continental
Establishment.
As soon as I can get myself properly fix'd, I shall
do myself the honor of waiting upon you — I must needs
say I can't see the fun of going to Peek's Kill.
As a Guard will be necessary for the Security of
the Continental Cash, & no Troops are station'd within
two Miles of my intended Quarters, I must request the
favor of you to send me an order for a sufficient Guard.
If it is agreeable to you I should be glad to have Capt.
Dixon of Lasher's Regiment, he is an acquaintance of
mine, cfe an officer I can depend upon. I think, con-
sidering the risque, a Captains Guard will not be too
great a one.
My Comj)*^ to Messieurs Les Francois & the Gentle-
men of your Suite.
I am most Sincerely & Respectfully, My dear
General, Yours,
W"" Palfeet
I have paid your Warrant to M'' Williams.
To Major General Lee
at North Castle
by M-^ Williams.
the lee papers. 277
From Gexekal Washington.
General Greene's Quarters, November 14t1i 1 776.
Dear Sir :
As an exchange of prisoners is likely to take effect
as soon as the nature of the place will admit, and as in
the course of the tran>!action it may possibly happen
that an attempt may be made 1)y the enemy to redeem
their prisoners by men A\ho were never engaged in our
service, I must re(piest you immediately to direct the
Colonels or commanders of regiments in your division,
to make out an exact list of the particular officers and
privates who have been killed, taken prisoners, or are
missing, in the respecti\'e regiments and companies to
which they belong, specifying the names of the whole,
and the time when each officer or private was killed,
taken prisoner, or missing. This list, as soon as it is
completed, you will transmit to Head Quarters.
I am, Sir, your most obedient Servant,
Go. Washington.
Major General Lee.
P.S. I now enclose you a copy of the recommenda-
tion of the officers for the state of Khode Island, which
was furnished l)y General Greene, and transmitted by
me to Governour Cooke, some time since. If the Com-
missioners have not yet arrived fi'om thence, you will
l)e pleased to direct the officers therein nominated, who
choose to serve, to recruit as fast as possible out of
their o^vn re2:iments, and asfreeable to the 2-eneral
orders issued at the White Plains before my departure.
To the Governor of Rhode Island.
Camp North Castle Nov. j' W" 1770.
Dr Sir,
There is no doubt of a considerable force being em-
barked or about to embark in Staten Island. They
278 THE LEE PAPERS.
give out that S. Carolina is the place of their destina-
tion — but as it is not impossible or improbable that
They may have some designs against Rhode Island,
either on a pillaging scheme, or perhaps with a view of
establishing winter quarters for a Part of their Troops
as they find themselves straightened at ISF. York I
think it my duty to apprise your Honour of their pre-
parations, that you may be upon your guard — either
by removing your stock — fortifying yourselves, or in
short by taking such measures as your wisdom shall
dictate for the welfare of America and your particular
security.
I beg my respects to the Gentlemen of your Council
— to the Province at large — and that you will person-
ally be assured that I am D' Sir, with the greatest
truth.
Your most obdient huml^le Servt
Chakles Lee.
[To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke Esq
Governor of tlie State of Rhode Island.]
From Gen. David Wooster.
Sawpits, Nov'^ IS^MTTG.
D« Sir,
I herewith send three men, who say they deserted
from the Infamous Col° Rogers's Reg* of Rangei's, one
belongs to Col° Hands Reg* and the other two to Col.
Small woods ; they will give an account of the Situation
and movements of the Enemy.
The Enemy who landed at Stanford only got two or
three Cattle, and on the approach of the Militia retired
on l3oard, and made sail immediately.
I have enclosed a uewsi:)aper of a late date.
I am Sir Your very humlde Serv*-
Dav° Wooster
The Hon'^''^ Major Genl. Lee
the lee papers. 279
From General Washington.
Geii^ Greeu's Q'" T\ov^ 10. 17 TO.
Dear Sir,
You will perceive by the inclosed Resolves tliat
Congress have entered into some new Regulations re-
specting the Inlistment of tlie new Army and reprobat-
ing the measures adojited by the State of Massachusetts-
Bay for raising their Quota of men.
As every possible exertion should be used for re-
cruiting the Army as speedily as may 1 )e, I recpiest that
you innuediately publisli in orders, that an allo^vance of
a Dollar & one third of a Dollar will be paid to the
officers for every soldier they shall enlist, whether in or
out of Camp. Also that it will be optional in the sol-
diers to enlist during the continuance of the war or for
three years unless sooner discharged by Congress. In
the former case they are to receive all such bounty and
pay as have been heretofore mentioned in orders ; Those
who engaged for the latter time, that of three years, are
not to receive the bounty in land.
That no mistakes may be made you will direct the
recruiting Officers from your division to provide two dis-
tinct Inlistiuo; Polls, one for those to sio-n who eno-ao-e
during the war, the other for those who enlist for Three
years, if their services shall be so long required.
I am sorry to inform you, that this day about 12
o'clock, the Enemy made a General Attack upon our
Lines about Fort Washington, which having carried the
Garrison retired within the Fort — Co' Mao-aw iindino-
there was no prospect of retreating across the North
River, surrendered the post. We do not yet kno^v the
loss of killed and wounded on either side, but I ima-
gine it must have been pretty considerable, as the En-
gagement iit some parts of the Lines was of long con-
tinuance and heavy ; neither do I know the terms of
capitulation. The force of the Garrison before the at-
tack was about 2000 men.
280 THE LEE PAPERS.
Before I left Peeks Kill I urged to Gen' Heatli the
necessity of securing tlie pass thro' the Highlands next
to the River as well on that as this side, and to the
Forts above ; But as the preserving of these and others
which lay more Easterly & which are equall}^ essential
is a matter of the last impoi'tance, I must beg you to
turn your attention that way, and to have such measures
adopted for their defence as your judgment shall sug-
gest to be necessary. — I do not mean to advise the aban-
doning your present post, contrary to your own opinion,
but only to mention my Ideas of the importance of those
passes, and that you cannot give too much attention to
their security by having works erected in the most ad-
vantageous places for that purpose.
I am D'' Sir
Your most Obed. Serv*
G° Wasiiingtois".
To Major General Lee.
P.S. I shall be obliged by your sending Gov'" Trum-
bull's Letter by the first opportunity. It will be well
to furnish each Col° in your Division with the substance
of these Resolves, so far as they respect the Enlistments,
to prevent any kind of mistakes.
Resolves of Congress.
[Inclosed in the precedlnr/ letter.^
In Congress, Nov. 7t\i, 1770,
Resolved, that the resolution passed the 14th of
October last. That the allowance to ofiScers of one and
one-third of a dollar for enlisting soldiers be not ex-
tended or giving on tlie re-enlistment of the soldiers in
camp, be repealed, and the same henceforth allowed.
THE LEE PAPERS. 281
November 12'*^ 1776.
Re>;olved, As tlie opinion of Congress, that if
tlie soldiers to be raised by tlie state of Massaclmsetts
Bay, be inlisted on tlie terms offered to tliem, (which
are more advantageous than ^\'hat are offered to other
soldiers serving in the same army,) it would much re-
tard, if not totally impede, the enlistment of the latter,
and ])i'oduce discontent and murnnir, unless Congress
should eipndly increase the pay of tliese ; which it is
the o])inion of Congress would universally be repro-
bated as an immoderate expence, and complained of, as
a grievous l)urden ])y those who must bear it ; and there-
fore, that the Committee from the state of Massachu-
setts Bay, be desired not to inlist their men on the ad-
ditional i)ay offered by the Assembly of that state.
Upon reconsidering the Resolution of the IGth of
September last, for raising eighty-eight l)attalions, to
serve during the present war with Great Britain, Con-
gress being of opinion, that the readiness of the inlia]:)i-
tants of the states to enter into the service for limited
times, in defence of their invaluable privileges, on all
former occasions, gives good ground to hope the same
zeal for the public good will appear in future when ne-
cessity calls for their assistance ; and lest the uncertain
length of time which forces raised during the continu-
ance of the present war may be compelled to serve, may
prevent many from inlisting who would otherwise readi-
ly manifest their attachment to the common cause, by
engaging for a limited time, therefore,
Kesolved, That all non-commissioned officers and sol-
diers, who do not incline to engage their services during
the continuance of the present ^^'ar, and shall inlist to
serve three years, unless sooner discharged l^y Congress,
shall be entitled to, and receive, all such bounty and
pay as are allowed to. those who inlist during the con-
tinuance of the present war, except the one hundred
acres of laud, which land is to l)e granted to those only
who inlist without such limitation of time.
282 THE LEE PAPEKS.
And eacli recruiting officer is required to provide
two distinct inlisting rolls ; one for such to sign as
enlist dui'ing the continuance of the war, and the other
for such as inlist for three years, if their service shall
be so long required.
By order of the Congress,
John Hajstcock, Pres.
Addeess to the Militia from Massachusetts.
[November 16, 1776.]
Ge]S"eral Lee most earnestly entreats and conjures
the Officers and Soldiers of the Massachusetts Militia
as they regard the sacred cause in which They are eu-
gag'd — as they res]3ect the property of their fellow
citizens the security of their Fellow Soldiers and their
own honour that they will continue in their pi'esent
Posts a few days longer — Thursday shall be the ut-
most — The General cannot specify the reasons of his
being so earnest in his entreaties, but can assure 'em
that it is of the last importance — from all the move-
ments of the Enemies Troops there is the greatest
reason to assure ourselves that their abominable de-
signs are already totally defeated. Nay We have
reason to believe that They themselves have abandoned
all thoughts of success, and that nothing but a base
and wicked defect of zeal and spirit in our soldiers
and officers can revive their hopes and it must be al-
lowed that the refusing at such a crisis as tliis to re-
main under arms for the few days requested is not only
a scandalous but wicked defect in zeal virtue and spirit.
The General is himself persuaded that the Men if left
to themselves are not ca])al)le of so flagitious n conduct
— but that some few of their officers wlio unhappily
have been elected to stations their characters disgrace
have laljoured to dissuade the soldiers from a resolution
THE LEE PAPERS. 283
wL it'll ]u)iu)ur duty and religion demand of tlicni —
these offieei-s are already known and v^liall be Imng out
to tlie })ublic notice as enemies and Pests to their Country.
Once more therefore the General earnestly recommends
to the officers and the men at large to follow their own
virtuous natural dispositions and comply Avith the re-
quest he has made — tho' at the same time he perhaps
ought to make an apology to 'em for making use of so
earnest and energetick terms in requesting what in fact
is so trifling an exertion of fortitude and self denial as
to remain only four days longer under arms.
To Colonel Reed.
Camp, November 16"' 1776.
My Dear Reed,
AYhether it is owing to my ignorance of certain
circumstances, or what reason, I can't pretend to say,
l)ut from the time the great Stores were secured, and
the impossil^ility of preventing the Enemy from j^assing
up and down the River ascertaiu'd, I confess I cannot
conceive what circumstances 2:ive to Fort Washino-tou
so great a degree of value and imj^ortance as to coun-
terl)alance the probability or almost certainty of losing
1400 of our best Troops. In this perswasion, I cannot
help expressing my concern that General Greene has
I'einforced it. I shou'd have been rather pleas'd had
he called off a considerable part of the Garrison — in
my o])inion the Enemy will not besiege it so much
from an Idea of its intrinsic value as with a view of
saving their honour 6l figuring in the foreign papers.
You recommend to me some movements in order to dis-
tract — You must be too well acquainted with the
natural strength of the Ground, not to see the facility of
circumvallating themselves hors (Vinsiclt.
Yesterday I detach \1 a Party of Eleven hundred
284 THE LEE PAPERS.
under Sullivan in hopes of surprising Rogers and his
neighljouring Brigade, but they had intelligence and
fled — The Militia leave us tomorrow — Our numbers
will be small to protect so large a tract of Country
from the depredations of the Enemy, which is really
an important point considering their circumstances, I
wish not to cede another inch and hope to effect it.
You may assure the General, that I will act offensively
to the utmost of my power.
Adieu, my D" Reed. My respects to tlie General.
Yours Affectionatel)"
C. Lee.
Col Reed.
From an apprehension that the original sliou'd mis-
carry I send a copy by Peeks Kill.
From Coloj^^el Reed.
Fort Lee, Nov. 10, 1776.
D^ General,
This Morning the Attack w^as made upon Mount
Washington by the whole of Gen. Howes Army in
three Divisions — our Troops kept the Lines as long
as could have been expected but were at length obliged
to yield to superior Numbers — They retired under the
Guns of the Fort which stoppVl the Approach of the
Enemy — soon after this a Flag went in from the Enemy
& since that there appears such an Intercourse that we
suppose the Fort has or will soon capitulate. The
General has thought it proper you should have the ear-
liest Advice of this Event that you may regulate your-
self accordingly.
The General has directed me to suggest to your
Consideration the Use or Proi)riety of retaining your
THE LEE PAPERS. 285
present Post uiider all Circumstances <fe would l)e glad
to hear from you on the- subject.
I am with uuich Regard
Yours
J. Reed,
A. G.
To ]\[ajor General Lee,
Camp near White Plains.
To Colonel Reed.
Novem. 17, 1776.
Dear Reed,
I received yours yesterday, and at the same time a
Note from Blodget Green's Secretary with the account
of the capitulation of Fort Washington — I have only
time to reply to the propriety of retaining our present
post — concisely 'tis my opinion and the opinion of the
General Officers that we ousrht for manifold reasons
•3f * i>
[The copy of the letter ends tlivis imperfectly -\\Tth page 18 In a frag-
ment of one of General Lee's letter-books containing pages 3-18 inclu-
sive.!
General Washington to William Palfrey.
Hackensack, Nov' 18, 1776.
I just now Receiv*^ the favor of j^our Letter of the
17th. I confess I did not expect that any Warrants
would have been j^resented to You for Payment except
those which I signed myself. The inconveniences which
might arise if several Persons in the same Army Avere
allowed to draw are obvious, and such as might pro-
duce great uneasiness and injustice to the Pul^lick. All
that applied to me were told, that the Abstracts were
286 THE LEE PAPERS.
to be deposited witli you, and sent down in order to be
signed by me at once, or that they would be com-
pfeated by my signature, if brought at different times.
I cannot allow double pay to Major Lee or any other
officer. It is expressly against the Resolves of Con-
gress. The Militia will l^e payed on making out proper
abstracts, and such as are satisfactory to you, as other
Troops are. You must inform their officers, that they
should be very particular in not charging for a longer
time than the men were in actual service & the ab-
stracts should be Certified by their Brig" or CoP Com-
mandants.
As I cannot conceive it will be for the Public good,
that Warrants should be drawn by different Officers,
and to prevent further mistakes on that account, I re-
quest that you will remove your office near my Head
Quarters, and pay no Warrants hereafter but such as
come from me, giving notice of your removal.
I shall mention to Congress the demands that will
be on you, desiring that j^rovision may be made for the
same.
I am. Sir,
Y'" most Obed* Serv*
G° Washington.
[To Lieut. Col. William Palfrey,
Paymaster General.]
To General John Sullivan.
Head Quarters, North Castle,
19*'^ November, 1770.
Sir,
I am directed by General Lee to request (as he is
going this morning to the Saw pits,) that you will act
in his stead till he returns, and give the necessary orders
for your division.
THE LEE PAPERS. 287
In any thing res])eetiiii»: Toi-ics, that yon will act ac-
cording to your own discretion.
I am, Sir, Kespectf ally yours,
John S. Eustace
Major General Sullivan.
A. D. Camp.
To Gexekal AVashixgton.
Camp, November 10*'' 1770.
Deai: (teneual :
The recommendation of General Greene wliicli
you transmitted to me, threw the otiicers to whom
I communicated it into so great a flame of discon-
tent, that I yentured, notA\'itlistanding your orders,
to hesitate. They accused him of partiality to his con-
nections and townsmen, to the prejudice of men of
manifestly superiour merit ; indeed it appears from the
concurrent testimony of unbiassed persons, tliat some of
the sul)jects he recommended ^vere wretched ; in short,
I was so stunned with their clamour that I delayed till
the arrival of the committee ; for which I ought to ask
your ])ardon, but at the same time think the delay has
been salutary.
IMy objections to moving from our present post are,
as I ol)served before, that it would give us the air
of being frightened ; it would expose a fine fertile
country to their ravages ; and, I nmst add, that we
are as secure as we could be in an}" position whatever.
"VVe are pretty w^ell disencumbered of our imj^ediments,
which I propose depositing on or about Crumb Pond,
which, (though I confess I have not reconnoitered the
place,) from its situation, must be full as safe, and is
much more centrical than Peekskill. If on further ex-
amination it has any material disadvantages, we can
easily move from thence. As to ourselves, (light as we
are) several retreats present themselves. In short, if
288 THE LEE PAPERS.
we keep a good look out, we are in no danger; but I
must entreat your Excellency to enjoin the officers post-
ed at Fort Lee to give ns tlie quickest intelligence if
tliey observe any embarkations of trooj)s in tlie North
River.
Our scouts are of late grown more vigilant, and
make .prisoners. The Militia, according to their lauda-
ble custom, would not stay a moment beyond their
usual time. Oh, General, why would you l^e over-per-
suaded by men of inferiour judgment to your own ? It
was a cursed affair.
Yours, most affectionately,
Chaeles Lee.
To His Excellency General Washington,
Hackensack.
P. S. The returns of the soldiers of the different
regiments, now in the hands of the eneni)^, .'iccording
to the mode you require, are not yet made out, but will
soon, and shall.be sent.
To Benjamin Rusir,
Camp, November 20th, 177G.
My deae Kusir :
The affair at Fort Washington cannot surprise you
at Philadelphia more than it amazed and stunned me.
I must entreat that you will keep what I say to your-
self ; but I foresaw, predicted, all that has happened;
and urged the necessity of abandoning it ; for could
we liave kept it, it was of little or no use. Let these
few lines l)e thrown into the lire, and in your conversa-
tions only acquit me of any share of the misfortune —
for my last words to the General were — draw oft' the
garrison, or they will be lost. You say I ought to de-
sire the General to press the Congress for the necessary
THE LEE PAPERS. 280
articles. I have done it a thousand times, and tlie men
are now starving for the want of I )lankets. I confess your
apatliy amazes nie. You make me mad — You have
numbers — your soldiers do not Avant courage — but such
a total want of sense pervades all your counsels that
Heaven alone can save you. Inclosed are some hints.
I could say many things — let me talk vainly — had I the
poAvers I could do you much good — might I but dictate
one week — but I am sure you will never give any man
the necessary po\ver — did none of the Congress ever
read the Roman History ? Adieu, my dear Rush,
Yours most sincerely,
Charles Lee.
1st. You must have an ami}" — this army cannot be
had on the terras proposed — give 'em the full bounty
and list 'em only for a year and a half — in short you
have so bungled your affairs that you must come into
any terms.
2d. Put some military man at the head of the Board
of War.
3d. Strip even yourselves of blankets.
From Willl^m Grayson.
Hackensack, November 20"" 1776.
Sir,
His Excellency has directed me to write to you, and
acquaint you with the late movements of the enemy.
They landed this morning between Dobb's Ferry and Fort
Lee, as it is imagined, at a place called Closter Dock,
nearly opposite to Phillips's House, and (as the General
has been informed) in great numbers, and an advanced
party of them have proceeded as far as a hill two miles
above the liberty pole, about a mile and a half above
General Greene's (piarters, ^vhere I left his Excellency.
The road leading from thence to the bridge above Hac'k-
YoL. IL— 19
290 THE LEE "PAPERS.
en sack, as well as tlie bridge, is open for onr troops to
retreat ; and from present appearances, it is expected
they may be got off without the loss of many of them.
What their object is cannot at present be clearly ascer-
tained ; but it is inaagined the getting possession of
Fort Lee is one part of their design ; however, it is pos-
sible, and perhaps proliable, they may have other and
more capital views.
His Excellency thinks it would he advisable in you
to remove the troops under your command on this side
of the North River, and there wait for further orders.
I am, Sir, with the greatest respect, your most obe-
dient Serv 
