Go: Washington.
It certainly was not possible at the moment to realize the importance of the messages that were now arriving. Woodhull’s inference that they contain much good intelligence is prophetic. The first is dated
Setauket, September 18th, 1780.
Sir. Your favour of the 12th inst, together with the enclosed came to hand on the 15, at 12 o’clock. I immediately set off and have done all that in me lay, and is communicated in the blank inclosed, and it contains much good intelligence, I hope all that’s needful. Our spirits are extremely low here. We Pray for your best endeavours. The times requires you to be vigilent and active. Sir George Rodney’s Fleet hath arrived. See the Paper. I have induced C. Junr. to shorten the present rout the letters take, as mentioned in the blank. It will be done in the course of ten days I hope similar to your plan proposed. I have made several discoveries of villany but have not time to write now. Forbid the boat man on with 725 to come any more, and desire Governor Trumbull immediately to grant him no favours, or else it will be too late. In my next will state the matter to you. In the greatest haste am yours sincerely
Samuel Culper.
N.B. 17th Dragoons at the Branch.
* * * * *
Greenfield, Tuesday morning, 6 o’clock
19th Septr. 1780.
Sir.
I have been impatiently waiting at this place for some time for the arrival of C’s Dispatches, which have this instant come to hand. A very heavy gale of wind prevented the boat from crossing at the time appointed. I hope the enclosed may be satisfactory. I shall inform Genl. Heath of what respects the French Army at New Port, agreeably to your Excellency’s orders. Enclosed is an account of expenses from C. A man is obliged always to ride to New York from the place where the boat lands and wait Culper’s answer; his expenses on the road and in the city for himself and horse must be very considerable. Your excellency will furnish such supplies, in answer to the enclosed, as may be judged necessary. I had the honor last night to receive your Excellency’s favor of the 16th inst. the contents of which shall be duly forwarded to C. Junr. I have the honor to be, with great Regard, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedt. Servt.