That the orders sent to Lieut. Colonel Sterling by Major General Sir John Burgoyne, seem to be solely for promoting good discipline in his Majesty’s troops, and to respect only their internal economy, which, as the King’s Commander in Chief, he had not only a right to give, but enforce also.
6th.
That in the instance for which Major General Sir John Burgoyne was originally put in arrest, it appears the government acted from half information, not having before them the postscript to the General Orders of Major General Sir John Burgoyne.
7th.
That the letters before the Court from Major General Sir John Burgoyne to Lord Macartney or the Presidency, so far from being mutinous or seditious, are not even disrespectful. The facts which they assert are strong; but in the manner and expression they are as decent and proper as the circumstances which gave them birth could reasonably admit.
Sentence.
The Court having thus maturely considered of the evidence and records in support of the prosecution, and likewise the defence and those in support of it, is of opinion that the Prisoner Major General Sir John Burgoyne Bart. is not guilty of the charges alledged against him; and doth therefore most fully and honorably acquit him of all and every part of the same.[17]
(Signed)
John Dalling,
Lieut. General & President.