But was there ever an instance of a General running away, as Gates has done, from his whole army? And was there ever so precipitous a flight? One hundred and eighty miles in three days and a half. It does admirable credit to the activity of a man at his time of life. But it disgraces the General and the soldier. I always believed him to be very far short of a Hector, or a Ulysses. All the world, I think, will begin to agree with me.
But what will be done by Congress? Will he be changed or not? If he is changed, for God’s sake overcome prejudice, and send Greene. You know my opinion of him. I stake my reputation on the events, give him but fair play.
But, above all things, let us have, without delay, a vigorous, government, and a well constituted army for the war.
Adieu, my dear Sir,
A. Hamilton.
COL. FLEURY TO HAMILTON.
Boston, September 7, 1780.
If you do write to me, direct your letters to General Heath, and under his cover. I cannot tell why till I see you; I want it much.
The enemy have left Martha’s Vineyard. It is reported they sailed to the southward.
I beg you would remember me to my friend Laurens; I have written to him, but he keeps silent.
I do not like your situation at Lee’s Fort: you throw the glove to Clinton; he will take it, and we are not near enough to be your seconds. Our sick increase; not much; but they increase.