Note 27 — TOWNSEND’S PERSONALITY
Reading edition
New York, July 12, 1776.
Gentlemen:—We have conferred with the General concerning the removal of stock back again to the pastures from whence they were driven; he was much chagrinned at the proposal and absolutely refused to consent, mentioning the unhappy consequences of not seasonably removing the stock from Staten Island. He is of opinion that all means should be used with the utmost expedition to remove the stock from Long Island, for which he promises to give all necessary assistance. We are of the same opinion, and hope your House will not lose a moment in giving peremptory orders concerning a matter of such vast importance. We are just informed by General Putnam, that one of Lord Howe’s fleet arrived yesterday: the utmost dispatch is necessary. We need use no arguments: the affairs at Staten Island being fresh in your minds. We are gentlemen, your humble servants,
Abrm. Ketaltas, Saml. Townsend, John Broom.