ought up a number of small boats,
are circumstances that give a colour to the surmise. Though all
this may very well be resolved into different motives, prudence
requires that our dispositions should have immediate reference to
the security of this post; and I have, therefore, drawn our force
together, so that the whole may act in its defence on an
emergency. To-morrow I shall remove my own quarters to the fort.

It is probable Congress will be pleased to bestow some marks of
consideration upon those officers who distinguished themselves
upon this occasion. Every officer and man of the corps deserves
great credit; but there were particular ones, whose situation
placed them foremost in danger, and made their conduct most
conspicuous. Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury and Major Stewart
commanded the two attacks. Lieutenants Gibbons and Knox commanded
the advanced parties, or _forlorn hope_; and all acquitted
themselves as well as possible. These officers have a claim to be
more particularly noticed. In any other service promotion would
be the proper reward, but in ours it would be injurious. I take
the liberty to recommend in preference some honourary present,
especially to the field-officers. A brevet captaincy to the other
two, as it will have no operation in regimental rank, may not be
amiss.

Congress will perceive that some pecuniary rewards were promised
by General Wayne to his corps. This was done with my concurrence;
and in addition to them, as a greater incitement to their
exertions, they were also promised the benefit of whatever was
taken in the fort. The artillery and stores are converted to the
use of the public, but, in compliance with my engagements, it
will be necessary to have them appraised, and the amount paid to
the captors in money. I hope my conduct in this instance will not
be disapproved. Mr. Archer, who will have the honour of
delivering these despatches, is a volunteer aid to General Wayne,
and a gentleman of merit. His zeal, activity, and spirit are
conspicuous on every occasion.

I have the honour to be, &c.,
Geo. WASHINGTON.

P.S. Congress may be at a loss what to do with Mr. Archer. A
captain's brevet, or commission in the army at large, will be
equal to his wishes; an