photo courtesy of the Bergen County Historical Society
GEORGE WASHINGTON TO GENERAL LEE
Newark November 24th 1776
DEAR SIR
I wrote you this morning of the probability that some of your letters to me had fallen with the mail into the enemy’s hands My apprehensions on that head have been since confirmed by direct intelligence from their camp I am informed that a letter from you is confidently said to have come to their hands and that measures are taken to intercept your march
To prevent them from effecting this object I have judged it proper to acquaint you of this accident and of their design at the same time I must that you will take every precaution to come by a safe and secure route I am told by those who have an intimate knowledge of the country that after you leave Haverstraw the western road by Kakiate will be proper for you to take But I will not undertake to prescribe any one in particular only observing that you will by all means keep between the enemy and the mountains
Before I conclude I would wish you to leave under the care of General Heath the two twelve pounders on traveling carriages They will be safe with him at Peekskill The brass twenty four I would have you bring provided it can be done without great inconvenience I need not urge the necessity of your gaining intelligence of the enemy’s situation in the course of your march I will be silent on that head nor need I mention the propriety of your sending frequent expresses to advise of your approaches Hoping and trusting that your arrival will be safe and happy
I am dear sir your most obedient servant
Go WASHINGTON To Major General Lee
PS The expresses should come by the western road otherwise they may fall in with the enemy Enclosed you will receive a copy of sundry resolves of Congress which you will publish in orders
Apparently General George was casting pearls at swine in this instance at least!