Macdonald's Research Notes

"When the enemy landed at Peekskill, altho' by far the greatest part of the 2nd & 4th regiments of the state were there, so small a number did they consist of that not withstanding the enemy did not appear to be more than 800 or 900 strong, the Genl. was under a necessity of retiring from that important post." &c. … and this was not all, but by reason of a want of waggons when they were obliged to retire, the principal part of the regiment's baggage, as I understand, was lost." &c. p. 433. / :Egbt. Benson & Melancton Smith - to - the N.Y. Convention." "Po'keepsie, April 28, 1777." ….Col. Field, who saw the enemy as they marched from Danbury, &… informed Dr.

Furman that Genl. Silliman was collecting a considerable force between the enemy & the sound." "By a letter this instant from Mr. McKesson, at Fishkill, we are informed that Col. Huntington, with about 500 men, is retreating before the enemy, skirmishing with them, & retarding their progress, & that Genl. McDougall, with 2000 men, marched from Peekskill last night about midnight, determined to attack them. p. 433. / "Letter from Alex: Hamilton, aid to Genl. W." "Head Quarters, Morristown, April 5th, 1777." "The enemy's attempt upon Peekskill is a demonstration of the folly of having any quantity of stores at places so near the water & so much exposed to a sud- -den inroad. There shd never be more than sufficient to answer present demands. &c." p. 436. /