General Washington to General Schuyler

v3:1569

Cambridge, November 16, 1775.

DEAR SIR: My last to you was the 5th instant. I have since received your most agreeable favour and its enclosure, of the 7th. The surrender of St˙ John' s is a most pleasing presage of the reduction of Quebeck, in effecting which I hope Colonel Arnold will co-operate. The last account from him is dated the 13th of October, at the second portage from Kennebeck to the Dead River, from whence he had despatched an express to you, and expected your answer at Chaudiere Pond, where he expected to be in eight or ten days. By your not mentioning to have heard from him, I apprehend the express has been intercepted.

I am in very great want of powder, lead, mortars, cannon, indeed of most sorts of military stores. For want of them, we really cannot carry on any spirited operation. I shall, therefore, be much obliged to you to send me all that can be spared from your quarter, Mr˙ Henry Knox, an experienced engineer, will set out for your place, and inform you of those articles that are most immediately necessary; but as this gentleman goes first to New-York, you will please to get in readiness for transportation such guns, mortars, and ammunition, as you can, and Mr˙ Knox will, on his arrival, send them forward. There is nothing of consequence to acquaint you of from this quarter, except the arrival of a train of artillery, and part of five Regiments, from Ireland, to re-enforce the Ministerial Army at Boston.

I am, with great regard and esteem, dear Sir, your most assured humble servant, GEORGE WASHINGTON.

To Major-General Schuyler, Northern Department.