348 Journal and Correspondence

Yesterday morning we were allarmed here by an express
which arrived at Head Quarters from Gen^l Heath who
commands over King's Bridge, informing his Excellency
that the enemy had landed about 4000 troops with an
intent of cutting off our communication with the Country,
upon which we were all ordered to our allarm Posts, and
Gen^l M^cDougal's Brigade, in which is Colonel Smalwood
and the Independent Companies, were ordered to march
imediately to King's Bridge. There was a report in the
evening that the enemy were in possession of East & West
Chester, if so are doubtful the sick and wounded with a
great deal of stores, are fallen into their hands.
There is orders come out for our soldiers to cook three
days provision and to hold themselves in readiness for an
immediat march, by which it is thought we will evacuate this
Island. About four days ago there was three men of war
(frigates) went up North River, past all our forts. One Gentⁿ
waked the 2^nd deck seemingly in command, as if nothing was
was the matter and seven forts keeping a constant fire at the
Ship. What damadge was done is uncertain, but believed to
be very triffling. Our soldiers, what of them are in health,
appear to be in good spirrits, tho' ragged and several without
shoes to their feet. The three first companies have gained
great honour under the command of the Major, who I believe
to be a brave man and I am hopes the other comp^y when
try'd will not disgrace them. All the field officers here would
be much oblidg'd to you for the settlement of the rank of the
Battalions and the officers of the Flying Camp. It is a very
material affair, therefore hope on receipt of this you will settle
it and inform us how. I have ordered the Capt^s to draw out
the pay roll of their several companys, agreable to the moade
here, by which those of the officers who have not settled with
you, will lose Miladge. I have assured them that I have no

doubt but you will make it good to them.

I am with due respect, Hon^ble Sirs
Your most obed^t Serv^t
Tho^s Ewing

M^r Parsons my Quarter Master is arrived who informs me,
you are angry at my not writing, which is the cause of my
sending you so long an epistol, the incorrectness of which you
will please excuse. T. E.

Original.

[Hughes to Council.]

Charles Town Cecil county Oct. 13^th 1776.
Gentlemen. I was in hopes I should, by this days post,
have received some instructions from your board about Cap^t