Documentary History of the State of New York, Vol. IV

The particulars you have heard I suppose,--they retreated with the loss of about 30 taken, & few or none killed. **** Considering the present situation of affairs in this part of the Province, I am fully persuaded, that I cannot possibly live here secure, either in regard to ourselves or property during the ensuing season ;--this place is likely to be a frontier, & will probably be burnt if the enemy can effect it. I have lost a considerable part of my stock while in Philadelphia, partly by public and partly by private robbers. For these and other weighty reasons, maturcly weighed, I have resolved (with the approbation & consent of Mrs. Stuart) to emigrate to Canada; and have made application for an exchange, which I have reason to believe, will be granted.'"2

In conformity with this view he made the following application in the course of the ensuing spring to Governor Clinton :--

'¢ May IT PLEASE YouR EXCELLENCY--

Having been a prisoner on Parole to the Commissioners of Conspiracy for these two Years past, and confined to the Town of Schenectady, not being allowed to reside on my Farm--my Property not protected--These, with other Reasons, induce me to wish for Permission to remove to Canada with my Family:--I have

1 Letter of G. O. Stuart, Esq. 2 Letter of Noy. 13. 1780.

512 MEMOIR OF THE

therefore presumed to apply to your Excellency for Permission to be exchanged for Some Citizen of this State now a Prisoner in Canada, and that I may be allowed to go under the Protection of the first public Flagg.--I will do myself the Honor to wait personally upon your Excellency at any Hour that may be convenient.--An Answer from your Excellency will much oblige *¢ Your most obedient '"& very humble servt '¢ Albany March 80th 1781 Joun Stuart."