Whippany, June 25, 1780.
Dear Baron:
The enemy, the day before yesterday, made a forward movement to
Springfield, which they burnt, and retired to Elizabethtown Point. The
same evening they crossed over to Staten Island; and there are a great
many concurring circumstances which make it probable we shall next
hear of them on the North River. As you are at West Point, the General
wishes you to remain there until the present appearances come to some
result. He has confidence in your judgment, and wishes you to give your
advice and assistance to the commanding officer. As you have no command
in the post, you can only do this in a private friendly way: but I dare
say General Howe will be happy to consult you. You will consider this
as a private letter, in which I rather convey you the General’s wishes
than his commands.
All the army is in march toward you, and will be at Pompton this
evening.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully and affectionately,
Your humble servant,
Alex. Hamilton.