Fishkill, November 12, 1777.
Sir:
Ever since my arrival in this quarter, I have been endeavoring to
collect the best idea I could of the state of things in New-York, in
order the better to form a judgment of the probable reinforcement gone
to General Howe. On the whole, this is a fact well ascertained, that
New-York has been stripped as bare as possible: that in consequence of
this, the few troops there, and the inhabitants, are under so strong
apprehensions of an attack, as almost to amount to a _panic_; that to
supply the deficiency of men, every effort is making to excite the
citizens to arms for the defence of the city. For this purpose, the
public papers are full of addresses to them, that plainly speak the
apprehensions prevailing on the occasion.
Hence I infer, that a formidable force is gone to General Howe. The
calculations made by those who have had the best opportunities of
judging, carry the number from six to seven thousand. If so, the number
gone, and going, to General Washington, is far inferior; five thousand
at the utmost. The militia were all detained by General Putnam till it
became too late to send them.
The state of things I gave you when I had the pleasure of seeing you,
was, to the best of my knowledge, sacredly true. I give you the present
information, that you may decide, whether any further succor can with
propriety come from you.
The fleet, with the troops on board, sailed out of the Hook on the
fifth instant. This circumstance demonstrates, beyond the possibility
of doubt, that it is General Howe’s fixed intention to endeavor to hold
Philadelphia at all hazards; and removes all danger of any further
operations up the North River this winter. Otherwise, Sir Henry
Clinton’s movement, at this advanced season, is altogether inexplicable.
If you can with propriety afford any further assistance, the most
expeditious manner of conveying it will be to acquaint General Putnam
of it, that he may send on the troops with him, to be replaced by
them. You, Sir, best know the uses to which the troops with you are
to be applied, and will determine accordingly. I am certain it is not
His Excellency’s wish to frustrate any plan you may have in view for
the benefit of the service, so far as it can possibly be avoided,
consistent with a due attention to more important objects.
I am, with respect, Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
Alex. Hamilton, A. D. C.
To General Gates.