The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

CT. 44.] LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 173
As Dorchester Heights commanded the harbour, and
also Nook's Hill, from which the town could easily be
annoyed by cannon and mortars, it was expected that
the enemy would attempt to dislodge the American
detachment, and that the scenes of Bunker's Hill would
again be acted over. In anticipation of such an event,
Washington prepared to assault the town at the same
time on the opposite side. For this service four thousand chosen men were set apart, and put in two
divisions, one under General Sullivan, the other under
General Greene, the whole being commanded by General Putnam. At a concerted signal they were to embark
in boats, near the mouth of Charles River, attended by
three floating batteries, under the fire of which they
were to land in the town, and then act according to
circumstances and instructions given by signals.
In the event there was no occasion for this attempt.
It was not the policy of General Howe, nor consistent
with his designs, to bring on a general engagement.
He remained in Boston at his own discretion, it having
been recommended to him by the ministry, several
months before, to leave that place and repair to a
southern port. Although he thought there were solid
reasons against such a step, yet he did not choose to
sacrifice his men, or run hazards, while so much rested
on his responsibility. But when the admiral told him,
that, unless the Americans were dislodged from Dorchester Heights, the King's ships could not remain in
the harbour, he consented to detach three thousand
men under Lord Percy for that purpose. The execution of the plan was defeated by a furious storm, which
came on while the troops were embarking. The next
day he determined to suspend offensive operations and
to evacuate the town.
Washington had regarded this result as probable, and,,.v