Learning About the Hudson Valley ~ The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799

George Washington to William Woodford, September 30^th, 1778.

The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

Head Quarters, near Fredericksburg, 9 O'Clock P.M., September 30, 1778.

Dear Sir: I have been favoured with your Letter of yesterday. In consequence of the Enemy's movements on the West side of the North river, I shall proceed toFish Kill Town to day and hold my Head Quarters there till their intentions are better understood or while circumstances may make it necessary. You will therefore send all your Letters and information to that post and you will also be so obliging as to communicate my removal to Lord Stirling, that he may do the same.

I am in hopes there is no foundation for the report you mention of the Enemy's being at the Clove. That pass is so exceedingly important that they should never be suffered to possess it; and whatever position you take should be calculated to give it perfect security. I have written to Genl. Putnam to send a detachment to occupy the pass leading from Haverstraw through the Mountains,4 by which the Enemy marched to attack Fort Montgomery last Year; so that I trust there will be nothing to apprehend from that. You will advise Lord Stirling of this.

[Note 4: Washington also ordered Brig. Gen. James Clinton's brigade to take post at the pass at the Continental Village, on the east side of the Hudson. This letter is in theWashington Papers.]

I am much obliged by your sending Doctor Griffith5 to the assistance of Colonel Baylor, Major Clough &ca. I regret their unhappy situation and the misfortune that has befallen their Corps. I am, etc.6

[Note 5: David Griffith, surgeon and chaplain of the Third Virginia Regiment. He resigned in March, 1779.]

[Note 6: The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.]