To George Washington from Major Thomas Wickes, 25 August 1778
From Major Thomas Wickes
Huntington [Long Island, N.Y.] Augt 25th 1778
Sir,
Tuesday Evening 7 Oclock
This moment I received Inteligence that all the Troops in Suffolk County and on Loyds are ordered to march to the Westard, the troops at Huntington marched this Morning, Tryon is on his march, this Sudden movement: is in Consequence of Some Ships Said to be french Ships in the Sound they are in the Greatest hurry, they Was Impressing teams all Last Night Tryon is Expected to be at Brookhaven this Night.1 I am in the Woods and Without Candle Light I am Obliged to Close this Imperfect Letter. I am Your Excellencys Most obdt and Very humbe Sert
Thos Wickes
ALS, DLC:GW. The cover indicates that this letter was sent “Pr Express.”
Thomas Wickes (1744–1819) had been a captain of the 1st Regiment of Suffolk County militia in May 1776 and was apparently a major at this time. He represented Suffolk County in the New York general assembly, 1777–83.
1. Lloyd Neck, on the north shore of Long Island, is about four miles north of Huntington. Brookhaven was a name used for the modern community of Setauket on the north coast and should not be confused with the current town of Brookhaven, nearer the south coast of Long Island.