From George Washington to George Clinton, 1 August 1777
To George Clinton
Chester [Pa.] 1st Augt 17771
Dear Sir
I had proceeded thus far in order to look out for a proper place to arrange the Army when I recd the provoking account that the Enemy’s Fleet left the Capes of Delaware yesterday and steered Eastward again. I shall return again with the utmost expedition to the North River, but as a sudden stroke is certainly intended by this Maneuvre, I beg you will immediately call in every Man of the Militia that you possibly can to strengthen the Highland posts. The importance of Fort Montgomery is such, that I wish you to repair immediately to it, if you possibly can, consistant with the duties of the Office upon which you have newly entered. I am Dear Sir Yrs &c.
P.S. A party must be still kept to secure the Entrance of the Clove.
Df, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; two Varick transcripts, DLC:GW. Clinton enclosed a copy of this letter in his to the New York council of safety on 5 Aug. (, 1:1027).
1. GW’s military family expense account contains entries for this date for £6.10 for cash paid “at Marcus hook for the General & Company &c.,” and for £30.19.9 for cash paid “at Chester dinner Bill &c. &c.” (DLC:GW, ser. 5, vol. 28; see also Vouchers and Receipted Accounts, 1776–1780, DLC:GW, ser. 5, vol. 29). GW arrived at Chester after a busy day inspecting fortifications and reconnoitering the ground between there and Philadelphia.