Letter from Joseph Trumbull to General Gates

Page v1:20

New York, July 5, 1776.

I last night received a letter from Mr. Avery on the subject of his department, and several others from Albany; by which I find you are in a cursed situation — your authority at an end, and commanded by a person who will be willing to have you knocked in the head, as General Montgomery was, if he can have the money-chest, &c., in his power. I expect soon to see you and your suite back here again. I have shown Mr. Avery' s letter, and one I received from Mr. Livingston at the same time, to General Washington. He is distressed with these matters. I told him I should order Mr. Avery and Mr. Jauncey back again immediately, as a deputy of mine, who could have no money from anybody but General Schuyler, could be of no use in that part of the world, and that I would not be answerable for consequences where my authority and the chief command were both disputed. He said I was right, and that he was writing to Congress on the matter of your command. I have therefore directed Mr. Avery to apply to you, for your leave of passport to return immediately, and I wish your favour therein.

General Howe is arrived here, with about the force he left Boston with — the fleet about one hundred and thirty sail, at anchor under Staten Island, and the troops on that Island. There they will stay till reinforced, I expect. General Mifflin is gone to command at King' s Bridge; the Militia come in very fast.

Wishing you health and happiness more than I think you at present enjoy, I am, my dear sir, your friend and humble servant,
JOSEPH TRUMBULL.

To General Gates.

P. S. If you judge it best to stop Mr. Avery till you hear from Congress, do as you please.

Letter from Joseph Trumbull to General Gates. [1776-07-05] [S5-V1-p0020] [Document Details][Complete Volume]