We then retraced our steps for about half a mile or more and pursued the old road which led to Morrisania Ferry." [We travelled
- Hufeland Index Page 1030 -
this road today, (Octr 19th). At first it was open and well worked apparently used by the neighbouring farms; after- -wards it was shut up by several gates like a private lane and so as to be scarcely passable. At length we extri- -cated ourselves by taking a private road leading to a country seat which it crossed. This private road conducted us to the Turnpike leading from Morrisania to West Chester Village. J. M. M.] Mr. Corsa in continuation: "As we approached Morrisania we took to the fields and crossed the high grounds about Gouverneur Morris's house, marching upon the Ferry from the east. The moment we attained these grounds and came in sight of the enemy, the British opened a fire upon us from their Forts at Mon- -tressors Island, Harlem and Snake Hill and from their vessels of war at anchor in Harlem river. The fire was very heavy and was renewed when we approached
- Hufeland Index Page 1031 -
Mill Brook. I and some ^one of the guides took shelter behind the old mill; but Washington, Rochambeau and the other officers moved on as though nothing had happened, and seeing their coolness we felt ashamed and joined them. We then crossed Mill Brook by the road and bridge which led to the ferry across Haerlem river near Colonel Lewis Morris's." [Mr. Corsa here pointed out to me the spot where the old Mill and Bridge stood. The exact site of the old bridge is now indicated by a wooden bridge contiguous to a tenant's house - both old Mill and old bridge having been situate a little south of the present Morrisania church.] "When we appeared upon the Ridge on the west bank of Mill Brook the British batteries again fired at us but we soon after commenced retiring along the low ground on the very edge of the brook where we and the army were all screened from the enemy's shot.