Benedict Arnold to the Massachusetts Committee of Safety

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Crown Point, May 29, 1775.

GENTLEMEN: I was equally surprised and alarmed this day, on receiving advice, via Albany, that the Continental Congress had recommended the removing all the cannon, stores, &c˙, at Ticonderoga, to Fort George, and evacuating Ticonderoga entirely, which being the only key of this country, leaves our very extensive frontiers open to the ravages of the enemy; and if put into execution, will be the entire ruin of five hundred families to the northward of Ticonderoga. I have wrote the Congress, and given my sentiments very freely, with your instructions to me, as I fancy they have had no intelligence of my appointment or orders.

Colonel Allen has entirely given up the command. I have one bundled and fifty men here, and expect in two or three weeks to have my Regiment complete, and believe they will be joined by a thousand men from Connecticut and New-York. I have sent to Lake George six large brass and iron mortars and howitzers, one brass and three iron twelve-pounders, and shall pursue your orders with all the despatch in my power. I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your most obedient humble servant,

BENEDICT ARNOLD.