Letter from General Gates to General Schuyler, August 18

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Ticonderoga, August 18, 1776.

DEAR GENERAL: Thursday Gen˙ Arnold went to Crown Point to take the command of the fleet collected there. Enclosed is a copy of my orders to him, which he read and much approved before his departure from hence. Late last night I received the within letter from the General, with an extract of what passed between him and Mr˙ Wynkoop, which you will also find in the packet, together with my letter. At daylight this morning, in consequence of General Arnold' s letter to me, I shall send Mr˙ Wynkoop to Albany immediately on his arrival here, and I dare say you will without scruple forthwith dismiss him the service. He ought upon no account to be again employed. Many officers of rank in this department say he is totally unfit to command a single vessel at this important hour of business. I would not submit this affair to a General Court Martial here, lest they should have doubts how to decide upon it, as the Continental Articles of War make no provision for so extraordinary a circumstance. The times will not admit of trifling; decision alone must govern on these occasions.

I expect General Waterbury by Saturday night with the row-galleys. As he is an able seaman and a brave officer, I intend he shall join General Arnold with the rest of the squadron the instant they can be armed and equipped. As General Arnold and he are upon the best terms, I am satisfied no dispute about command or want of confidence in each other will retard the publick service.

I am, dear General, your most obedient, humble servant,
HORATIO GATES.