This morning the convention were informed, that the frigates and tenders still lay there at anchor, and that several barges were busy in sounding the river; another detachment of the militia has been directed to guard the stores in that neighborhood, in which are sundry effects belonging to the public.

The convention will endeavor to prevent their making incursions into the country, and beg leave to suggest to your Excellency, the propriety of keeping a strong guard at King's bridge, the destruction of which they apprehend tobe an object with the enemy. ^

I have the honor to be with esteem,

Your Excellency's most obedient servant, by order

To his Excellency Gen, Washington.

July 16th, 1776. A letter from Colonel Hammond then stationed at Tarrytown, was read.

The Colonel therein informs the convention, that the ships of war have left that harbor, and are sailing up the river with a fair wind, towards the Highlands. Thereupon it was resolved, that Colonel Van Cortlandt and Mr. Z. Piatt^ be directed to repair immediately to the Highlands. '^

» Jour. N. Y. Pro. Cou Book I. 523.

t- A distinguished ofEcer of the American service, grandfather of Lewis C. Plait, Esq., present surrogate of the county. • Journal N. Y. Pro. Con. Book I. 525.

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER.

Upon the 9(h of October, 1778, a body of 1100 British troops embarked on board batleaux at Peekskill and the same night proceeded to Tarrytown, where they landed at daybreak, and occupied the heights adjoining.*