Washington, George, 1732-1799 to Landon Carter
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07115.01 Author/Creator: Washington, George, 1732-1799 Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 27 October 1777 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 32.2 x 20.7 cm. Order a Copy
Signed twice by Washington. Discusses his campaign, the battles of Brandywine, Germantown, Red Bank and Saratoga, and the danger of being captured. "at the same time that I assure you, that, It is not my wish to avoid any danger which duty requires me to encounter I can as confidently add, that it is not my intention to run unnecessary risques." On the Battle of Germantown: "After driving the Enemy from their Incampment - possessing their ground - and being, as we thought, upon the point of grasping victory, it was snatched from us....a very heavy atmostphere [sic], aided by the smoke of our Field pieces and Small arms, rendered it impossible, at times, to distinguish friend from Foe...which caused our Men, I believe, to take fright at each other." Also discusses his reaction to Gates' victory at Saratoga and his own "embarrassment this Campaign," but opines that "a superintending Providence is ordering every thing for the best and...in due time, all will end well." Includes a list of prisoners (see GLC07115.02) taken by the Northern army.
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