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Subject Area: Political Theory
Subject Area: War and Peace
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

TO MAJOR-GENERAL GATES. - George Washington, The Writings of George Washington, vol. VII (1778-1779) [1890]

Edition used:

The Writings of George Washington, collected and edited by Worthington Chauncey Ford (New York and London: G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890). Vol. VII (1778-1779).

Part of: The Writings of George Washington, 14 vols.

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TO MAJOR-GENERAL GATES.

Sir,

I think it necessary to inform you by the return of the express, who brought your packet for Congress, that I am now with the main body of the army within ten miles of Coryell’s Ferry.2 General Lee is advanced with six brigades, and will cross to-night or to-morrow morning.3 By the last intelligence the enemy were near Mount Holly, and moving very slowly; but, as there are so many roads open to them, their route could not be ascertained. I shall enter the Jerseys to-morrow, and give you the earliest notice of their movements and whatever may affect you. As the supplies of forage and provision in your quarter will be objects of the utmost importance, they will therefore claim your attention. I am, Sir, &c.

[2 ]Washington arrived at Coryell’s Ferry at noon on the 21st. He crossed the river at about 3 o’clock. “Rain prevented our marching so early this morning as I intended [4 o’clock]; the succeeding heat and badness of roads rendered it impossible for the army to advance any further than the other side of Coryell’s Ferry.”—Washington to Major-General Dickinson, 21 June, 1778.

[3 ]“You are to proceed with the first and second Pennsylvania regiments, and the brigade late Conway’s, by the direct route to Coryell’s Ferry, leaving a proper interval between your division and General Lee’s, so as to prevent their interfering with each other. The instructions given to General Lee, are to halt on the first strong ground after passing the Delaware at the said ferry, until further orders; unless he should receive authentic intelligence, that the enemy have proceeded by the direct road to South Amboy, (or still lower); in this case he is to continue his march to the North River.”—Washington to Brigadier-General Wayne, 18 June, 1778.