1. GW is referring to an elevation in the Newark Mountains, now known as the Watchung Mountains (see GW to Sullivan, 31 Oct.).

2. See GW to William Maxwell, 1 Nov., and n.5; see also GW to George Clinton, 29 Oct., and n.5.

Caldwell’s letter to GW has not been found, but he explained the reason for that communication when writing Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene from Springfield, N.J., on 27 Oct.: “What I have now in view, is by the earnest desire of the Country; to engage your influence with his Excellency, if consistent with his greater plans, to cover this Country for the present, by stationing the whole or part of the Jersey Brigade somewhere near Westfield. The Magazines of Hay at and near Quibble Town are of Vast importance. …

“The Legeslature have Ordered 4000 Militia to be in readiness. They however suppose they are not to turn Out except the French Fleet Arrives, and they will not be easily brought, or held, to duty, near their homes. I think the stores in your Department in eminent Danger, and at the request of my Friends have written to his Excellency on this subject, which if you think consistent with the general cause I would solicite you to second” (Greene Papers, description begins Richard K. Showman et al., eds. The Papers of General Nathanael Greene. 13 vols. Chapel Hill, N.C., 1976–2005. description ends 4:504–5). For GW’s desire, which went unfulfilled, to attack the British in and around New York City after rendezvousing with a French fleet under Vice Admiral d’Estaing, see Planning for an Allied Attack on New York, c.3–7 Oct., editorial note. In his reply from West Point on 3 Nov., Greene informed Caldwell that the latter’s “favor of the 27th of October came to hand yesterday. The General had given the order for Maxwells brigade to march for Westfield before your letter arrivd in consequence of a representation I had made to him of the dangerous situation the Forage was in, in that quarter” (DNA:PCC, item 173).