To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 27 January 1779
From Major General Stirling
Middle Brook Janr. 27th 1779 4 oClo’ P.M.
Dear Sir
I have been so bad of the Rhuematism, that I have not been Able to work for some days. every thing worthy your Excellency’s Notice has been Communicated thro’ McHenry.
Yesterday evening about Sun Set I received intelligence thro’ several respectable hands that the Enemy on Staten Island were prepareing to put themselves in Motion, and intended to pay us a Vissit this Morning; however improbable, I thought it my duty to take every proper Step for their resception here & to Obtain further Intelligence of the Enemy, this Morning I again sent off five different Messengers towards Staten Island for Intelligence, but have heard Nothing of them; and must Conclude their Motions are either Suspended or are in another Course; especially as Maxwell seems to be of that Opinion this Morning.1
In the N. York paper enclosed, is a paragraph of the 4th Novr which induces me to hope Spain has before this time Joined france and have declared Serious War.2 I have the Honor to be your Excellencys Most Obt Humble Servt
Stirling
ALS, DLC:GW.
1. A significant British attack from Staten Island into New Jersey did not occur until the last week of February (see William Maxwell to GW, 25 and 27 Feb.).
2. The enclosed newspaper has not been identified.