[Extract]

. . . I cannot help thinking I foresee the worst of Consequences, from too great a proportion of the Main Army being drawn into the Jersies. ー Sir William Howe having a Secure Retreat open to his Ships, can at any time give Your Army the Slip; ー And then his Ships of War, and Armed Vessels, which he can increase at pleasure, (for every Transport may be Converted into a Floating Battery,) will prevent Your Army, or any part thereof, from repassing Hudson's River.

The Forts in The Highlands, are I hope Guarded, with all the Care, and Attention, worthy, so great a Charge. I look upon them as the Keys of American Liberty; And pray they may be preserved as such . . .

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