From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 18 June 1780
To Jonathan Trumbull, Sr.
Head Quarters Springfield June 18th 1780
Dr Sir
I have just received authentic advice, that a large fleet appeared off Sandy Hook yesterday afternoon and entered as fast as they came up.1 From every circumstance this can be no other than Sir Henry Clinton. If the enemy push directly up the North River, much is to be apprehended for West Point. It requires all our exertions to put it in a state of defence. I some days since directed General Howe to apply to Your Excellency for the state Regiments to reinforce the garrison.2 I now entreat you to hasten them forward with all possible expedition, together with the drafts for the Continental batalions, which I am informed the state had determined to make.3 They will proceed to West Point ’till further orders. Every effort to keep up a full supply of provisions is indispensable. I would also recommend that your Excellency should put two or three thousand Militia under marching orders to repair to West Point on the application of Major General Howe in case of a sudden emergency.4 I have the honor to be With every sentiment of respect yr Excellency’s Most Obedt & huml. sr.
Go: Washington
LS, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, Ct: Trumbull Papers; Df, DLC:GW; copy, M-Ar; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. GW sent this letter by express (see GW to Nathanael Greene, this date, n.4).
2. See GW to Robert Howe, 15 June and this date.
3. On 21 June the Connecticut council resolved that “Lt. Col. Levi Wells with the [state] regiment under his command do immediately march to the Highlands in the State of New York, and on his arrival to inform Major Genl How thereof” (, 3:110).
4. On 20 June, the Connecticut council ordered 2,000 militia held “in readiness to march to Westpoint on the North River” or where required for its defense upon orders from Maj. Gen. Robert Howe (, 3:109). On 21 June, the council resolved that Trumbull “give immediate orders” for detaching 2,000 militia “and cause them to march with the utmost expedition for Westpoint, to be under the command of Major Genl How for the defence of that post” (, 3:110).