To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 November 1777
From Major General Nathanael Greene
Mount Holly [N.J.] Nov. 25th [1777] 4 oClock
Dr Sir
This moment receivd intelligence the enemy are embarking from Glouster and [c]rossing over to Philadelphia Col. Comstock sends this intelligence and sais it may be depended upon1—I have orderd General Varnums & General Huntingtons brigade to advance immediately to fall upon the enemies rear and prevent their geting off their stock—I wait your Excellencies Orders to march where you may think advisable—Colo. Sheppard got into camp about noon.2 the whole body of the troops will be ready to move at a moments warning—The Riffle Corps & about 600 Militia are upon the enemies flanks.
A detachment from Cap. Lees Horse took Nine prisoners yesterday—the first account I ever had of their being in this quarter. I am with great esteem Your Excelly Obed. Servt
N. Greene
ALS, DLC:GW; LB, CSmH: Greene Papers. The cover of the ALS, which indicates this letter was sent “By Express,” contains a pass signed by Greene’s aide-de-camp James Lloyd: “Permit the Bearer to pass By Order Maj. Gen. Greene.”
1. See Adam Comstock’s first letter to Greene of 25 Nov., in Greene’s second letter to GW of this date, n.1.
2. Col. William Shepard was in temporary command of Gen. John Glover’s brigade.