October 1, 1779.
I am much obliged to you, my dear sir, for your two letters of the
16th and 23d. In haste I snatch up my pen by an express going off to
the Governor, to give you the news as it runs. The most important and
best authenticated is, that Count D’Estaing was arrived on the coast of
Georgia. The tale runs thus. We are in possession of a Charleston paper
of the 6th of September, which mentions that the Viscount de Fontagnes
had arrived at that place, sent by the Count to announce his approach.
Mr. Mitchel, who transmits the paper, adds,--that by the express
which brought it, Mr. Gerard had received dispatches from the Count,
informing him of his intention to attack the enemy in Georgia on the
9th; that in consequence of this intelligence Mr. Gerard had postponed
his voyage a few days to be the bearer of the event. This, I hope, puts
a period to the danger of the Southern States, for which I could not
help having strong apprehensions, notwithstanding the presumption drawn
from the enemies’ past folly against their pursuing any plan favorable
to their interest. I acknowledge the force of the argument, but I was
afraid they might for once blunder upon the right way. The departure of
Cornwallis on the 25th, with the Grenadiers, Light Infantry, and one
British regiment, had increased my horrors on this subject. The nature
of this corps pointed to a temporary service for some important coup
de main. Charleston presented itself as the only object. They would
hardly separate the flower of their troops for any remote and permanent
station. They are continuing their embarkation. The accounts we have
of the particular corps carry them to between five and six thousand.
I send you a Boston paper of the 23d, containing some interesting
European advices.
Your most respectful and affectionate servant,
Alex. Hamilton.
P. S. The General is happy in the hopes you give him of a speedy
visit from General Schuyler and yourself, and orders me to present his
respects to both. The family join in every sentiment of perfect esteem.