Robert Troup to John Jay, 29 June 1778

Peeks Kill, June 29 1778–€” 1/2 after 9 o–€™Clock PM–€”

My dear Sir,

By a Letter rec d ., a few Hours ago, from Major Armstrong, 1 we learn that our Army were, the Night before last, at English Town, 2 in New-Jersey between six & seven Miles from Monmouth Court House, where the main Body of the Enemy were posted–€”that they were then marching, it is presumed, in Order to cut off their Communication entirely with South Amboy & the other possible Places of Embarkation–€”that Gen. Lee 3 comm[ande] d 4000 Men which were constantly harassing their Flanks–€”that the Militia of NJersey were in the highest Spirits, and almost to a Man in Arms–€”that 500, British & German Soldiers, had deserted, & more were hourly coming in–€”

We shall move at 2 o–€™Clock in the Morning for the White Plains–€” Our Object is to make a Shew of attacking NYork, to prevent their throwing a Force into NJersey to operate in Favor of Sir Henry Clinton–€” We have a pretty Respectable Army–€”

I am sorry we can–€™t grant Miss Bayard–€™s Request, & the more so because you have applied for her–€” 4 But, my dear Sir, we shall be Putnamised, to all Intents and Purposes, if we suffer any Persons to go into NewYork. 5 This Consideration induced me, to prevail upon the General, 6 to shut the Door, immediately after I left you at Fish-Kill–€” I do not think that a Single Flag will be granted, during the whole Campaign, unless for public Purposes–€”

When I receive any further Intelligence that may be depended on I shall communicate it to you without the least Delay–€”

My best Respects to all my Friends at Poughkeepsie–€” In the greatest Hurry, I am, My dear Sir, Your obliged humble Serv t .

Rob. Troup.

Hon–€™ble Judge Jay–€”