From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General James Clinton, 1 August 1778
To Brigadier General James Clinton1
Head Qrs White plains [New York] Augt 1st 1778
Sir
The General has received a letter written by Mr Erskine2 by your desire at half past Nine oClock this morning; by which he perceives there are parties of the Enemy hovering about you. He desires you will take the most effectual measures to ascertain what force they are in; and be particularly watchful, that while they may be amusing you in front, they may not throw a force superior to yours on your right flank & rear, and perhaps cut off your detachment. You will remember that it is not the object of it, to effect any thing material against the Enemy; and therefore you will be pleased carefully to avoid any untoward accidents happening to it. If the Enemy should be near you, in any considerable force, you will fall back upon the Army.
I am Sir Yr Most Obed: sert
Alexr Hamilton Aide de Camp
To Brigr. Genl Jas Clinton
Df, in writing of Robert Hanson Harrison, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
1. Clinton, the brother of Governor George Clinton, and a brigadier general, Continental Army, was in the vicinity of Kings Bridge, New York, when this letter was written.
2. Presumably Robert Erskine, geographer and surveyor to the Army of the United States.