To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 26 October 1779
From Major General William Heath
Mandevilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]
Octr 26th 1779
Dear General
Yesterday I rode to Pecks-kill to reconnoitre the ground in the vicinity of that place, purpose that the Connecticut Division encamp on the high ground South of Pecks kill, and that they March from this place early to morrow morning,1 Have Sent a party this morning to repair the New Bridge on to verplanks point and remove the Obstructions thrown in the roads by the Enemy while in Possession of that place,2 Shall leave 150 men under the Command of Major Throop to Compleat the redoubts on the heigths, that being the number lately employed on those works, There are also Some other parties employed between this place and Anthonys nose makeing Fascines, Gabions &c. If your Excellency has Objections to any part of the foregoing or would have other measures taken I would request if agreable to your Excellency that I may receive your further orders before evening. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servant
W. Heath
ADfS, MHi: Heath Papers.
1. Heath later explained that this movement occurred on the designated date, 27 Oct., “and Maj. Gen. Howe’s division was ordered up to form a junction” ( 234). By 29 Oct., “Gen. Howe’s division formed a junction with the Connecticut line, and encamped with them. Strong fatigue parties were daily employed on the works evacuated by the enemy at Verplanck’s and Stony Points” ( 235).
2. For the recent British evacuation of Verplanck Point, N.Y., see GW to Horatio Gates, 22 Oct., n.7.