In Camp Fort Constitution, Oct. 1, 1776.
I have been solicited by Genl. Green to remain in the service. I before declined, but he will not hear one word about my refusing to serve.
[Original in possession of Benjamin Hale, Esq.]
[No. 10.]
LIEUT. COL. WILLIAM HENSHAW TO HIS WIFE
LEICESTER, MASS.
Long Island 22d June, 1776.
My Dear—
... Last evening a Conspiracy of the Tories was discovered; their plan was to murder Genl. Washington, seize on the Persons of the other General officers, & blow up our Magazines, at the Instant of Time the King's Troops should Land. A number of our Officers rode last Night to Flat bush on this Island, & seiz'd the Mayor of the City, who is now in safe Custody & suppos'd to be in the Conspiracy—several others are also taken & the Names of others we have, which I hope we shall soon be able to give a good account of.
In haste, I conclude
Yours affectionately,
Wm. Henshaw.