Paulding, Williams & Van Wart were all natives of the town of Greenburg & resided (as also their parents) neighbors to each other, near Saw Mill river. They with 5 or 6 others went near Tarrytown, to capture, whatever might be going to the enemy. Paulding & Van Wart & Williams secreted themselves near the road, while the rest of the party went down near the river to keep a lookout. Paulding & Van Wart were amusing themselves with cards, while Williams kept guard. When Major Andre came along, they sprang into the road & stopped him. What afterwards took place you are already acquainted with.

TOMPKINS' RECOLLECTIONS 61

LIEUT. MOSIER'S GALLANT STAND AGAINST 45 HORSEMEN

Capt. Richard Sackett raised a company for 6 months. William Mosier was Lieut. in the company. Capt. Sackett with part of the company were breakfasting, at a house, near Thomas' Mills in King street. Lieut. Mosier with 22 men were breakfasting at another house a little distance off. Col. Holmes with 45 horsemen appeared in sight. Sackett with his men were made prisoners. Mosier with his men fled through cleared fields, pursued by the refugee horse, finding it impossible to escape, Mosier formed his men into a hollow square, facing outward, with orders not to fire until he did, calculating to make the best terms he could, before surrendering. The refugees came on at full speed & shouting, when they pressed on Mosier's men, they kept them back, by pricking the horses noses with their bayonets. Holmes approached near to Mosier (being acquainted with him) & ordered him to surrender & he should have good quarters. Mosier said he would consider on it--knowing (as he told me) that they would frequently promise quarters & when they surrendered cut them to pieces. Holmes parleyed with him some minutes, then drew a pistol & discharged it at Mosier, the ball passing near his temple, Holmes was in the act of drawing another, when Mosier leveled his piece at him & ordered him to return his pistol, or he would blow him off his horse.