1From George Washington to the New York Convention, 17 August 1776 (Washington Papers)
When I consider that the City of New York will in all human probability very soon be the scene of a bloody conflict: I can not but view the great Numbers of Women, Children & infirm persons remaining in It with the most melancholy concern—When the Men of War passed up the River the Shrieks & Cries of these poor creatures running every way with their Children was truly distressing & I fear will...
2From George Washington to the New York Convention, 23 August 1776 (Washington Papers)
I am favoured with yours of the 22d acquainting me with a Report now circulating “that if the American Army should be obliged to retreat from this City, any Individual may set it on fire.” I can assure you Gentlemen, this Report is not founded upon the least Authority from me. On the contrary I am so sensible of the Value of such a City and the Consequences of its Destruction to many worthy...
3From George Washington to the New York Convention, 20 September 1776 (Washington Papers)
G entn .—Having reason to believe the enemy will attempt to gall us with their ships of war from the North river as soon as they are ready to open their batteries against the front of our lines, which we expect them to erect with great industry, I beg leave to mention that I think it may be of immense consequence if your Honourable Body will order down some of your fire ships, which may lay...
4From George Washington to the New York Convention, 17 October 1776 (Washington Papers)
Judging it a matter of the utmost importance to secure the passes thro the Highlands, I have sent up Monsr Imbert, a French Gentlemen, who has been placed in the Army as an Engineer by Congress, in order to take your directions respecting the passes & such Works as you may esteem necessary to preserve them. As the situation of Affairs in this State is rather alarming, I would beg leave to...