Letter from General Schuyler to General Washington

v2:1257

Saratoga, October 26, 1776.

DEAR SIR: Mr˙ Harrison' s letter of the 20th instant I received yesterday, and a few minutes afterwards I received a letter from General Gates, copy whereof I do myself the honour to enclose.

I am in great hopes that General Carleton will not be able to dislodge our army from Tyonderoga; but should such an event unfortunately take place, such measures will be taken as I think will certainly prevent them from penetrating into the country on this side of the lakes. The change of Commissaries has very considerably interrupted the supplies for the army. I have, however, got every thing again in such train that a very considerable quantity of flour is now on its way up, and I believe it impossible for the enemy to prevent its reaching the army even if they should make their utmost efforts to intercept it.

On the 28th September, the army had forty days' flour; on the 22d instant, it was reduced to sixteen; but on that and every succeeding day, I hope considerable quantities arrived. Be assured, my dear General, that I shall take every measure that has a probable tendency to promote the service and secure the country.

I congratulate your Excellency on the success of our troops at East-Chester. I hope it will soon be succeeded by a more decisive blow in our favour, so as to frustrate the enemy' s intention of forming a line between you and us.

I am, dear sir, with every respectful sentiment, your Excellency' s most obedient, humble servant,

PH˙ SCHUYLER.

To His Excellency General Washington.