From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 1 August 1777
To Colonel Elias Dayton
Chester [Pa.] 1st Augt 1777.
Sir
Having recd information that the Fleet have left the Capes of Delaware and steered Eastward, you are immediately upon the Rect of this to return and keep upon your march till you reach Peekskill. If you find any Ships thrown into King’s Ferry way, you are to proceed to New Windsor and cross there. I am &c.
Df, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. An endorsement on the draft indicates that this letter was addressed to “Colo. Dayton or next in command.”