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. 51
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Wilmington, 1 September, 1777.
SIR,
The latest and most material intelligence, which I
have obtained respecting the enemy, you will find in the
enclosed papers, which I do myself the honor of transmitting to you. How far the enemy have it in view to
extend themselves in a line from bay to bay, I cannot
determine, but the idea has taken place with many;
and it is said to be founded on their hints to some
persons, who, from accident in some instances, and
perhaps choice in others, have had a more familiar intercourse with them. I cannot suppose they have any
such design, or, if they have, that it can be more than
temporary for procuring supplies of provisions.
General Howe's Declaration is agreeable to his constant usage, and is what we might reasonably expect.
The only difference is, the present exhibition is styled a
"Declaration." It is another effort to seduce the people
to give up their rights, and to encourage our soldiery
to desert.* The facts contained in the deposition of
Francis Alexander, which you have also enclosed, seem
to be opposed to that regularity and discipline, which
are promised by the Declaration. Yesterday there was
1- This Declaration was issued on the 27th of August, at the Head of
Elk, and differed from a Proclamation in nothing but the name. General Howe assured the inhabitants, that the strictest orders had been
given for the preservation of regularity and discipline among the soldiers,
and that the severest punishment would be inflicted on any one, who
should dare to plunder their property or molest their persons. Ile moreover declared, that security and protection would be extended to all
persons, who should remain peaceably at their usual places of abode;
and he promised pardon to those, who had taken an active part in the
rebellion, provided they should voluntarily return to their allegiance, and
surrender themselves to any detachment of the King's forces within a
specified time.