From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 22 September 1779
To Major General Robert Howe
Head Quarters West Point 22d Sepr 1779
Dear Sir
I am favd with yours of yesterday with its inclosures.1 Capt. Willings confinement is by way of retaliation for that of Govr Hamiltons in Virginia. A representation on the subject has gone to the State of Virginia2 and I hope a mutual release from the present rigorous treatment of both Gentlemen will be the consequence. By Our observartions from this side the River it appears that the enemy have only contracted their Works on Verplanks but have not evacuated the point3—If the fleet which we have been expecting has touched any part of our Coast we must hear of it soon4—Be pleased to forward Major Talmadges letter immediately to him.5 I am &c.
Df, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. This letter has not been found; the enclosures have not been identified.
3. For these British movements, see GW to John Jay, 25 Sept., n.11; see also GW to Howe, 24 September.
4. GW is referring to the anticipated arrival of the French fleet under the command of Vice Admiral d’Estaing.