To George Washington from Robert Stewart, 23 July 1758
From Robert Stewart
Cresups [Md.] July 23rd 1758
8 o’Clock P.M.
Dear Sir
Your favour of yesterday’s Evening was handed me this morning before Reville Beating—In answer I beg leave to assure you that should that formidable Body of Indians attempt this place I will exert myself to the utmost in giving them a proper Reception.1
It was sometime after dark before the Junction of the little Partys that compose my small Command could be effected, then I did not loose a moment in placing advanc’d Sentrys and appointing Alarum Posts &ca on rect of yours we repair’d to these Posts and so soon as day came Detach’d some of our best woodsmen different ways to endeavour at making some discoverys, employ’d a Party to repair the Fences and finish the Penns and at present thinks I have little to fear from double my numbers.
The Doctr & McNeil desir’d I would have an Escort for them at Enocks’s Wednesday night as the Enemy is about will send every body I can spare.2
There’s glorious Grass here, I wish to God you would use your Interest to keep me here till we begin our long March—I beg you’ll please present my Complemts to Colo. Byrd and the rest of my good acquaints. with you & believe me to be with unalterable Regard My Dear Colonel Your truely affecte & much obliged hble Servt
Robert Stewart
ALS, DLC:GW.
1. GW’s letter to Stewart of 22 July has not been found, but he makes no reference to reports of hostile Indians in the area in his letters of 21 or 24 July to Bouquet. There was, however, the attack by the Indians near Fort Cumberland on 13 July (GW to Bouquet, 13 July 1758).
2. Dr. James Craik and Capt. John McNeill, both of GW’s regiment, went to Winchester probably on 22 July for the Burgess election held on 24 July.