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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) to Benjamin Lincoln

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05564 Author/Creator: Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 August 1777 Pagination: 2 p. : address : docket ; 19.8 x 15.8 cm. Order a Copy

Reports to Continental General Lincoln about receiving a letter from George Washington concerning his (untrue) opinion that British Commander William Howe had gone to South Carolina, and adds his own hopes that New York will soon be in American possession. Mentions British General John Burgoyne (not named) is losing Canadians and Indians. Expects that Benedict Arnold will join with his division and " ... a large number of Indians." Ends by stating, "The Sky clears all around us and the political clouds seem gathering all around Our Enemies; that providence may continue to Bless us with prosperity is the Fervent prayer of Dear Generals."

Head Quarters 28th: Augt 1777-
Dear Sir
I did myself the pleasure to write to you by an Express I sent round by Albany, since then I have heard from General Washington, his Letter is dated the 20th:, he says he is now of Opinion that Sir William Howe is gone [to] South Carolina. I hope soon to acquaint you, that N. York is in Our Possession; & that the reinforcements from all parts, are in One, or Other, of Our Incampments. The Riffle men must be here tomorrow, unless the late Northerly Winds has delay'd them in the River.- I find the Indians, & Canadians, have mostly left the Enemy. I daily Expect General Arnold, with His Division, & a larger Number of Indians. The Sky clears all around us, and the political Clouds [2] seem gathering all around Our Enemies; that Providence may continue to Bless us with prosperity is the Fervent Prayer of

Dear General
Your Affectionate
Humble Servant
Horatio Gates
My Respects to General
Stark, & Col: Warner --

Honble: Majr: Genl: Lincoln

[docket]
From Genl Gates Augt. 29th
1777

[address leaf]
To
The Honble: Major Genl: Lincoln
Commanding at Benington

Gates, Horatio, 1728-1806
Lincoln, Benjamin, 1733-1810
Howe, William, 1729-1814
Burgoyne, John, 1722-1792
Arnold, Benedict, 1741-1801

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