HAMILTON TO BARON STEUBEN.
Whippany, June 25, 1780.
Dear Baron:
The enemy, the day before yesterday, made a forward movement to Springfield, which they burnt, and retired to Elizabethtown Point. The same evening they crossed over to Staten Island; and there are a great many concurring circumstances which make it probable we shall next hear of them on the North River. As you are at West Point, the General wishes you to remain there until the present appearances come to some result. He has confidence in your judgment, and wishes you to give your advice and assistance to the commanding officer. As you have no command in the post, you can only do this in a private friendly way: but I dare say General Howe will be happy to consult you. You will consider this as a private letter, in which I rather convey you the General’s wishes than his commands.
All the army is in march toward you, and will be at Pompton this evening.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully and affectionately,
Your humble servant,
Alex. Hamilton.