A letter from Major Tallmadge addressed to General Scott, dated Bedford, October 29, 1778, reads:
“I have this moment received a letter from a gentleman direct from Long Island, by the very gentleman whom I made mention to you the other day to serve as a conveyance for Samuel Culper’s letters. I doubt not it is authentic.”
Samuel Culper was the name assumed by those who furnished the secret intelligence. At first without distinction, but later Abraham Woodhull signed “Samuel Culper, Sr.,” and Robert Townsend, “Samuel Culper, Jr.” Sometimes in error they would write “Culper Samuel,” and Townsend sometimes forgot to add the “Jr.”
Abraham Woodhull’s letter of October 31, 1778, indicates the hazard of the work in New York City, and mentions finding a faithful friend who will assist him. His letter reads:
“Since my last have explored Long Island, City of New York and island unto the ten mile stone to Tryons Quarters where I received his threats for comeing their that made me almost tremble knowing my situation and business but blessed be God have been prosperd and particularly successful in ingaging a faithful friend and one of the first characters in the City to make it his business and keep his eyes upon every movement and assist me in all respects and meet and consult weekly in or near the city. I have the most sanguine hopes of great advantage will acrue by his assistance.... If bad weather doth not prevent you will hear from me weekly. I have to request that you will destroy every letter instantly after reading for fear of some unforseen accident that may befall you and the letters get into the enemies hands and probably find me out and take me before I have any warning. I desire you will be particularly cairfull. Hopeing this may arrive safe and be able to serve you better in my next is the earnest desire of your most obedient Hbl. Servt.
“Samuel Culper.”
9. MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE ALIAS JOHN BOLTON
1. Generals Philip Schuyler, 2. Marquis de LaFayette, 3. Nathaniel Greene, 4. George Clinton, 5. Robert Howe, 6. Israel Putnam, 7. John Lamb, 8. William Heath.
Before the end of the next month Culper’s letters were delayed, which caused Major Tallmadge to address the General with the letter which follows: