Letter from General Schuyler to the Committee of the New-York Convention

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Saratoga, October 26, 1776.

GENTLEMEN: I am honoured with your favour of the 24th instant. The affidavits transmitted me would countenance the suppositions that the enemy intend an irruption on the Mohawk river, but I can hardly imagine they will attempt until they have met with success at Ticonderoga, which I both hope and believe they will not have. I did not, however, like to move Dayton' s corps from the western quarter, but was pressed to do it in such terms by General Gates that I could not prudently refuse it. Lest, however, an accident should happen, I would advise that Colonel Van Ness, with his regiment, should, on his return from Coaxsakie, march to Schenectady, or such place where he can be of most service in case of an attack. Our scouts from Johnstown, Fort George, and Fort Edward, all agree that there is not the least appearance of an enemy in the northwest quarters.

I enclose you copies of letters from General Gates and General Arnold. I have had a copious eruption since you was here; it is going off, and find myself in much better health.

I am, gentlemen, with every friendly wish, and with the greatest esteem, your most humble servant,

PH˙ SCHUYLER.

To the Committee of Convention, at Albany.