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Parsons, Samuel H., 1737-1789 to Thomas Mumford

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00496.075.04 Author/Creator: Parsons, Samuel H., 1737-1789 Place Written: Peekskill, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: October 23, 1777 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; Height: 19.5 cm, Width: 15.4 cm Order a Copy

Written by General Parsons to Mumford as a merchant in Groton, Connecticut. Says he has doubtlessly heard of the Convention between General Gates and General Burgoyne. The Convention delineated the terms of surrender for General Burgoyne. Mentions the action at the Battle of Germantown on October 4, 1777. Explains that due to fog, the battle with General William Howe ended prematurely. Says the Americans were close to victory before the fog settled on the field. Mentions casualties of generals. Says General Clinton embarked before he could attack. Says his numbers are few and now fears an attack from General Clinton. Says it would be best for 1,400 troops drafted in Connecticut to join General Putnam. Parsons says the militia under him have left. Says he has asked the Connecticut assembly to mobilize 1,800 militia, one-half heavy dragoons and one-half light horse. Hopes if the assembly allows it that he can have access to a considerable body of troops quickly. On last page are several calculations.

Parsons, Samuel Holden, 1737-1789
Mumford, Thomas, 1728-1799
Howe, William, 1729-1814
Clinton, Henry, Sir, 1730-1795
Gates, Horatio, 1727-1806
Burgoyne, John, 1722-1792
Putnam, Israel, 1718-1790

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