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.

PART II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 11
TO MAJOR-GENERAL PUTNAMI.
Chester, I August, 1777.
DEAR SIR,
I have this moment received intelligence by express,
that the enemy's fleet yesterday morning about eight
o'clock sailed out of the Capes in an eastern course.
This surprising event gives me the greatest anxiety,
and, unless every possible exertion is made, may be
productive of the happiest consequences to the enemy,
and the most injurious to us. I have desired General
Sullivan's division, and the two brigades that left you
last, immediately to return and recross the river, and
I shall forward on the rest of the army with all the
expedition in my power. I have also written to General Clinton requesting him instantly to reinforce you,
with as many militia of the State of New York as he
can collect; and you are, on receipt of this, to send on
an express to Governor Trumbull, urging it upon him
to assist you, with as many of the Connecticut militia
as he can get together, and without a Imoment's loss of
time.
The importance of preventing Mr. Howe's getting
possession of the Highlands by a coup de main is infinite to America; and, in the present situation of things,
every effort that can be thought of must be used. The
probability of his going to the eastward is exceedingly
small, and the ill effects that might attend such a step
inconsiderable in comparison with those, that would inof liberty, in which the United States are engaged, has left his family
and connexions, and at his own expense come over to offer his service
to the United States, without pension or particular allowance, and is
anxious to risk his life in our cause; Resolved, that his service be accepted, and that, in consideration of his zeal, his illustrious family, and
connexions, lie have the rank and commission of major-general in the
army of the United States." See APPENDIX, No. I.