To George Washington from Captain Allen McLane, 28 November 1777
From Captain Allen McLane
Rising Sun [Pa.] 12 oClock [28 November 1777]
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Evry Intelligence from the City agree that the enemy is in motion and intend a Grand stroke last night they gave out that a body Cross Schulkill and to Cover the deception they kept, their Waggons and Artillery moveing through the City all night this moment I Reced a few lines from my old friend I have good Reason to believe that he keeps a Good look out, and Gives the best intelligence I Remain on my Guard Excellency Humble servt
Allen McLane
ALS, DLC:GW. McLane was on detached duty collecting intelligence near the Rising Sun on 28 Nov., and British sources describe unusual British activity in Philadelphia on the night of 27 November. The British “deception” apparently misled Capt. Charles Craig, who was reconnoitering to the east of McLane (see Craig’s first letter to GW of 28 Nov., and note 1).