To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 21 July 1779
From Major Henry Lee, Jr.
July 21st 79
sir
The enemy again landed this morning on Stoney-point.
I conjecture this debarkation to be serious: as their baggage tents &c. are also on shore.
General Stirling’s brigade compose the present garrison; the General commands.1
The few wounded men left behind the other day, I have taken the liberty to send on board ship. They are received on the same terms & are to be conside[red] in the same point of view when exchanged, as those deliverd on the 17th inst.2
They were troublesome to us, remote from the hospitals of the army, & being few in number I did not conceive it worth while to trouble your Excell’y on the occasion.
The enemy’s fleet upwards of forty sail still continue off Stoney-point. I have the honor to be sir with perfect respect Your Excellencys most ob. h: servt
Henry Lee Junr
ALS, DLC:GW. The cover of this letter indicates that it was sent by express.
1. The British reoccupied Stony Point, N.Y., on 19 July (see Richard Butler to GW, that date, and n.2 to that document; see also GW to Anthony Wayne, 1 July, and n.2 to that document).
2. For the return on 17 July of wounded prisoners who were taken upon the capture of Stony Point on the night of 15–16 July, see GW to William Woodford, 22 July, n.1.