George Washington Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-21-02-0464

To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 19 July 1779

From Major General William Heath

Baldhill [N.Y.] July 19, 1779

Dear General

From the appearances of Several fires the last night there is reason to apprehend that the Enemy have destroyed the Works & evacuated Verplanks point. I have Sent out Several parties to make discoveries & to harrass them if possible.

In obedience to your Excellencys orders the Brigades will move into the Highlands.1 Permit me to Suggest on Account of the great Scarcity of Forage in the Highlands, & the probability that the Enemy are now retiring or will soon retire towards New York, whether it will not answer your Excellencys intentions to have this wing of the Army as far Advanced this way as can be with Safety.

I have Order’d out the Light Horse to reconnoitre on the different roads. I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your Excellencys Most obedt Servant

W. Heath

As the left Wing is Composed of Brigades from different States request to know how they must be posted, as I wish to be regular.

LS, DLC:GW; ADfS, MHi: Heath Papers.

1Heath apparently received these orders from GW through Maj. Gen. Robert Howe (see GW to Heath, 18 July, and n.2 to that document).

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