History records that one of the men deserted in response to this appeal. In all the preliminary events of the devolution there is no more dramatic episode than this exploit of Marinas Willett. It is typical of the whole course of the people of New York from the earliest period of the troubles with the mother country -- a course of unfaltering aggression, taking no thought of consequences. Willett subsequently became an officer in the American army, and, as we shall see, distinguished himself upon

EXPLOIT

MARIM'S

WILLETT,

a notable occasion in repelling a British expedition near Peekskill, in our county. The continental congress at Philadelphia, pursuing the Revolutionary programme which had been inaugurated at the beginning of its session, early turned its attention to the subject of preparing the Province of New York for defensive and offensive operations. In this connection the fortification of the passes at Kingsbridge and at the entrance to the Highlands, and plans for obstructing the navigation of the Hudson Paver in case of necessity, received chief consideration. On the 25th of May a number of resolutions pertaining to New York were adopted by the congress, including the following: That a post be immediately taken and fortified at or near Kingsbridge, in the Colony of New York ; and that the ground be chosen with a particular view to prevent the communication between the City of New York and the country from being interrupted by land.

HISTORY

WESTCHESTER

COUNTY

That a post be also taken in the Highlands, on each side of Hudson's River, and batteries erected in such a manner as will most effectually prevent any vessels passing that may be sent to harass the inhabitants on the borders of said river ; and that experienced persons be immediately sent to examine said river, in order to discover where it will be most advisable and proper to obstruct the navigation.