On the evening of the 14th the greatest part of the troops marched out and took post on the bank of the East river just below Kip's Bay ー about three miles from the city. Myself being one of the body ー we were posted behind a slight entrenchment recently thrown up, opposite and near which lay five ships. on the 15th as the morning advanced we saw the road oppo- site to us ー the sound not being two miles wide at that place ー filled with a dense column of the enemy moving down to the waters edge and embarking on board flat boats. knowing their object we prepared to receive them.

As soon as they began their approach ー the ships opened a tremendous fire upon us. the column of boats on leaving the shore proceeded directly towards us; when arriving about half way across the sound they turned their course and proceeded to Kip's bay ー about three quarters of a mile above us ー where they landed: their landing there being unexpected they met with no opposition: the firing from the ships being continued ー our slight embankment being hastily thrown up ー was fast tumbling away by the enemy's shott. Our troops left their post in disorder, and before being rallied the enemy had completely formed in the road on the adjoining hill. our regiment with some others being ordered on the Bloomingdale road and to march towards Kingsbridge