Colonel Arnold to Lieutant-Governour Cramahe

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Camp before Quebeck, November 15,1775.

SIR: I yesterday sent the enclosed with a flag and officer, who, approaching near the walls of the Town, was, contrary to humanity and the laws of nations, fired on, and narrowly escaped being killed. This I imputed to the ignorance of your guards, and ordered him to return this morning, and, to my great surprise, he was received in the same manner as yesterday. This is an insult I could not have expected from a private soldier, much more from an officer of your rank; and, through me offered to the United Colonies, will be deeply resented; but at any rate cannot redound to your honour or valour. I am informed you have put a prisoner, taken from me, into irons. I desire to know the truth of this, and the manner in which he is treated. As I have several prisoners, taken from you, who now feed at my own table, you may expect that they will be treated in the same manner, in future, as you treat mine.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

BENEDICT ARNOLD.

To the Honourable H. T. Cramahé.