Albany, October 10, 1780.
My Dear Sir:
I am still confined to my room, but believe my disorder has taken a
favorable turn, and that I shall soon be tolerably restored.
Colonel Van Schaick informs me that he is ordered down with his
regiment. We are so sadly off here for directors, that I most sincerely
wish he had been permitted to remain here: his deafness will render him
little serviceable with his regiment.
I am informed that some people have recommended, or intend to
recommend, to the General, to evacuate Fort Schuyler. I hope it will
not take place, as the enemy would immediately occupy the ground,
and make it a receptacle for Indians and tories, from whence to pour
destruction on the country. A certain Lieutenant Laird, of the militia,
who was carried off, or went off voluntarily, with Sir John Johnson,
when last in the country, is returned, and advises that about two
thousand men were collected at St. John’s to make separate attacks on
the Grants, Saratoga, and the Mohawk river. If this be true, it was
probably intended as a co-operating plan, if Sir Harry had come up the
river. An Express is this moment arrived, announcing that about five
hundred men of the enemy are arrived at the Canajoharie Falls. If this
should be confirmed, I shall venture to advise Van Schaick to detain
his regiment, and hope it will meet the General’s approbation. It is
said the enemy are fortifying at Oswego. I hope the garrison for that
place will be speedily sent up.
When do you intend to be here? Who will accompany you? Is it probable
the General will pay us a visit in winter? I most earnestly wish
it. Will you make my excuses to the Marquis for my not writing him:
the Doctor will not permit me; but what is worse, I really have not
strength as yet. Entreat the General to accept of my best wishes: the
family share in them. Adieu, my dear sir.
I am, affectionately,
Yours, etc., etc.,
Ph. Schuyler.
Colonel Hamilton.