George Washington Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/02-03-02-0196

From George Washington to Henry Peyton, 4 June 1756

To Henry Peyton

[Winchester, 4 June 1756]

To Colon. Henry Peyton, of the Prince-William Militia.
Sir,

I was pleased to hear of your alertness in marching to Pattersons Creek upon the last alarm; and doubt not but you will continue to be vigilant and active in the service of your Country; as that is the most certain road to merit applause.1 I am informed that Mr Parker continues on his place, and has a quantity of Grain:2 If this be true, I would advise that a party of about twenty or twenty-five men and an officer, be sent to his assistance—and that you would upon all alarms, endeavour to collect yourselves into such formidable Bodies as can not be hurt—and rather waylay and act by stratagem, that attempt to pursue—and find if possible their Sleeping places, and surprize them at night.

The enclosed3 I must desire you to forward—as well as all expresses that are sent to me, with the greatest expedition. I am &c.

G:W.

LB, DLC:GW.

1On 17 May GW ordered Peyton and the detachment of the Prince William militia to go to Pearsal’s fort on the South Branch. Peyton, when he heard the reports of Indian activity on Patterson Creek (see Memorandum respecting the Militia, 17 May 1756), must have decided on his own to take his men to the assistance of the threatened outposts there.

2Mr. Parker may have been John Parker who lived on the South Branch.

3The “enclosed” may be GW’s letter of the same date to William Cocks.

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