On this fated morning soiiie of the inhabitants of Westchester had by agreement taken their arms, and proceeded to the neighborhood of this brook and bridge, to prevent cattle from being driven down towards New York, and to seize as a loyal prize any such cows or oxen as might be destined for his majesty's troops by their friends. This patriotic band of seven had volunteered of their own account to go upon this expedition the day previous, Sept. 22, 1780. John Yerks, (still living in the town of Mount Pleasant aged eighty-eight.) says that he proposed this excursion to John Paulding, both of them being at that time stationed in North Salem. The latter at first objected, but upon further consideration volunteered his services, provided they could induce a sufficient number to accompany them. This Yerks assured him could be easily accomplished and offered to procure the men ; while Paulding should obtain the necessary permit from the com.manding officer. Yerks had in the meantime enlisted three volunteers, viz. Isaac See, James Romer and Abraham Williams. Paulding soon after returned with tlie permit, accompanied by his friend Isaac Van Wart. The party now consisting of six, took the direct road for Cross river. Here they were joined by David Williams from Bedford. From Cross river they proceeded' to Pleasantville, formerly Clark's Corner, where they halted for the night. From a lady by the name of Mrs. Powell, (who had recently arrived at this place from Morrisania,) the volunteers ascertained that the British horse from Long Island, New Jersey and New York, had advanced from the Island into tlie neighborhood of Boar hill, Yonkers.