Putnam, Israel (1718-1790) to John Neilson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06307.02 Author/Creator: Putnam, Israel (1718-1790) Place Written: Princeton, New Jersey Type: Letter signed Date: 25 February 1777 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; 33 x 21.5 cm. Order a Copy
Reports that there is intelligence showing that the British are planning a movement toward Delaware. Advises that if this occurs, Colonel Neilson should join him immediately with his men. Warns him not to be fooled, "be careful that you are not deceived into this Movement by any Foraging Party for the Enemy, but previous to taking this step observe if possible whether or not they are really prepared for a March." Informs that the British are building pontoons in New York and that he should try to find out if any arrive at Amboy, New Jersey. Also instructs Neilson to spare no expense to secure "proper" spies to observe and predict the enemy's movement. Text in hand of Aaron Burr.
Princeton 25th Feby 1777
Dear Colo
From different Intelligence - and the Preparations of the Enemy there is
the greatest Reason to believe that they intend a Movement this Way - should such a Manoevre take Place or should the British Army [illegible] advance towards Delaware, you will observe it as your Orders to join me with the Men under your Command immediately - be careful that you are not deceived into this Movement by any Foraging Party of the Enemy, but previous to taking this step observe if possible/whether or not they are really prepared for a March - I am informed they have been making Floats or Pontoons at N York [inserted: for the Purpose of laying across Rivers by Way of a Bridge]. I should be very glad, if you would engage some intelligent Person to inform you if any should arrive at Amboy - As you are much acquainted with the Country and with [inserted: the] Persons who may be relied on, I would have you spare no Pains or Cost to procure proper Spies to observe the Preparations of the Enemy. whether they are repairing their Waggons, shoeing their Horses or other things of this Nature which denote a March -
- In Case of a Movement as above, and should the Communication
between us be cut off - I would have you make for some of the lower Ferries - Burlington or opposite Philada and there cross the River and join me as [struck: above] before directed -
I am sir your hum Servt Israel Putnam
Colo. Nielson
[address leaf]
Colonel John Nielson
Cranbury -
[docket]
Genl Putnam
Febry 25th 1777 -
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