“Honored Father: I wrote you a few days since from Brunswick. Have now to advise you of my arrival here the 18th. Instant.—I am much afraid whether I shall be able to purchase any Flaxseed being very little yet come to markett.—There is considerable to come from the country, which they cant yet bring owing to the waters being so very low in river.—I am with Duty to Mother, love to Brothers & Sisters,

“Your Dutyfull Son,
“Robt. Townsend.

“P.S. Expect we shall sail about the 1st. of Decr.”

“Near Midnight, Aug. 27, 1776.

“My Dear Sally:—The solemn Day is come at last,—Long Island is made a field of Blood—now the cannon & small arms make a continued roar, even at this time of Night: Day before yesterday the battle began, and with some intermission has continued till now, yea now is roaring in my ears and God only knows when it will end.

“Yesterday morning it was very hot, as yet we have no account which may be fully depended on, only that in general that Howe has landed with most of his men upon Long Island. Small parties engaged till yesterday morning, when they made an attack upon us, they were beat back three times, the last time our People pursued them too far, when a strong reinforcement of the Enemy endeavored to cut off our retreat and did us a good deal of damage, tis reported that General Sullivan and Stirling are missing. Tis also said we have made great havoc amongst them—but I can tell but very little for certainty as yet, except that there is a mighty Battle which is continuing—May a good God grant that it end in our favor and for the glory of his Name! Goodnight!”

“Aug. 30th, 1776.

“My Dear Sally:—Thro’ divine goodness I am very well as are our congregation in general that are here. Adam Woods has the ague. General Washington has thought proper to draw his men from Long Island, this was done last night.

“The enemy are now firing upon New York, from Long Island; our men here are drawing up to be in readiness, in case we are needed.

“How many were lost upon the Island is yet uncertain, some say we have 700 missing and that we have killed twice as many of the enemy, tho I believe it is but guess work as yet.

“Generals Sullivan and Stirling who are missing are said to be prisoners, it is also said general Grant on the other side is killed, they talk of another General of theirs Killed.

“It is reported that Col. Atly is wounded and a prisoner. Think it likely that our people will burn New York, and retreat into the chain of Forts which are above it—when that is done am in hopes our Enemies will get no farther. Poor Long Island! I know not what will become of my Relations there. May God help them. They are left to the mercy of our Cruel Enemy.

“Our men are in high spirits and I trust we shall, thro’ ye help of God soon break the power of our Foes.

“My Love to the Girls, my little son, and the Neighbors. Remember me to Elsy and the boys—and accept yourself the best affections of your....

“John Woodhull.”

November 23, 1778.

Sir. The enclosed will explain to you a meeting of the inhabitants, at which I was present, and with satisfaction beheld their dijected countenances. The Commissioners sales this day in the Roebuck, it is sd. Lord Cornwallace is a going with them. The second division under Brig. Genl. Cambell that have laid some time at Sandy Hook, on the account D’Estaing sailing consisting of about three thousand troops, are to sail this day. Two ships with Troops drove to sea in a violent gale of wind from the northward about the 10th inst. and have not been heard of since. A friget sent yesterday with all expedition to Rhode Island said for transports, The Bedford in the Harbour lost her fore and Missen Mast, is to go home under Jurey Masts with expedition. She was one of four in A. Byron’s fleet that was missing after the gale of wind the beginning of the month. With her came in the Richmond Friget dismasted. The cannon and field pieces are removed from the common to Fort George. Some of the cannon on that Fort and the Battery near it are put as ballace on board several transports, on the 19th Inst. Some Capital Merchants were very buisy the day and night following in packing and putting their goods on board ships. The whole of the Kings Troops on York Island includeing out posts, doth not exceed three thousand five hundred men, and not much to be feared from the inhabitants. The whole City seaged with a Panike and a general dissatisfaction taken place.

Setauket, Feby. 26, 1779.

Sir. No. 8.

Your No. 4 and 5 came to hand. The former forgot to acknowledge the receipt of in my No. 7. The latter have carefully observed and will follow your directions. I shall now endeavour to give you as an authentic of affairs and transactions that hath past since my No. 7 (together with the state of the enemy) as I possibly can. The troops within these lines have not been augmented by any arrivals from Europe. The number consequently remaining the same, save two companies of Light Infantry from Rhode Island landed on Long Island and marched immediately for Southampton, about fifty came down to New York, said to be deserters from General Burgoin’s Army. The force of the enemy on this, Staten, Powles Hook and York Island are as follows: and think you may very safely rely upon it as I have been for some time engaged to find out the true state of the Enemy, and to correct my former accounts. The 44, 57, 63, Colls. Robinson’s and Emmerick with three German Regiments all commanded by Governor Tryon, are cantoned from King’s Bridge to and within four miles of the city. From these posts to and within the City are two Battallions of Guards, 28 Regm. Welch Fusileers, The Volunteers of Ireland, called Lord Rhoden’s Regm. and four German Regm. Also in the City are Genls. Clinton, Jones, Mathews, DeLancey, Knyphousen, with one other German Genl. think his name is Smyth—64th Regm. Powles Hook, 26, 37, one German, Colls. Buskearks and Barton’s, with Genls. Leslie and Skinner on Staten Island, Long Island and Brooklyn ferry one German Regt. 33 at Bedford, a small part of the 42 and 71 with three companies of Germans commanded by Genl. Vaughn are at New Town. One German Regm. Yaigers at Flushing, Queen’s Rangers Coll. Simcoe at Oyster Bay, Coll. Ludlow’s Regiment under Genl. DeLancey New Levies at Lloyd’s Neck. The 17th Regm. Dragoons, Coll. Burch and Lord Cathcart Legion are at South Hampton together with all the Grenadeers and Light Infantry belonging to the enemy within these lines, except about two hundred left at Jamaica. Their several movements to South Hampton make that body about two thousand men. They have lived upon the miserable inhabitants of Suffolk County ever since they have been in it and there is a great probability of the inhabitants wanting the necessities of life. They give receipts for cattle, hay and etc. but are not paid. They have been out of money nearly two months. I compute the whole force of the enemy to be thirty four Battallions, equal to two hundred and fifty in a battallion, and believe it to be a very just computation. I saw a private letter from London brought in the Packet that left Falmouth the 20th of November and arrived here the 24th January, which I think you may rely on, that Spain and the two Sicily’s have followed the steps of France in favour of America which compleets the whole family of the House of Bourbone. The Dutch have demanded satisfaction of his Brittannick Majesty of all damages sustained on their shipping by seasure ever since the year 1734, and His Majesty hath complyed with their request. Bergoin a discarded Lord and General Howe are both to undergo parliamentary examinations. 15 Privateers and 300 sail of Merchantmen and 2 ships of War have been lately taken by the French. No prospect of any troops being sent to America but a great probability of the King giving up the contest. This sir agrees in substance with the English papers, which I have seen up to the 3d of November. Other accounts say his Majesty will continue the war and that a large body of troops will be sent to America in the Spring, but I doubt if any troops comes, but begin to be fearful that these troops here will stay longer than some time ago I expected. I can positively inform you that Genl. Clinton had liberty from his Majesty to leave New York the first of November last on which a council of war was held and concluded it was not for the interest of the Crown to do it. I think if it had not been for the sake of the Tory’s they would have quit America then. The cannon that was taken from the Battery near Fort George and put on board the Lord Townsend transport was some time ago relanded. On the first instant a Cork Fleet, consisting of eleven sail arrived with provisions but brought no news. On the 8th six transports arrived from Hallifax under convoy of the Delaware Frigate. Same day some ships from Rhode Island with the troops before mentioned. On the 14th Instant his Majesty’s Speech was handed us from Jersy, it appears very mild and not very pleasing to the enemy; it is all we have had from England since the November Packet. It is said the December Packet is taken. There is a fleet of Victiallers and private adventurers preparing for Georgia. It is said some Troops will go in the Fleet. I think it very likely. Their convoy will certainly be weak. I do not know to be but three or four ships of war in and about the city, their ships of war are all gone to the West Indies. Six ships of the Line could now very easily block up the Port and reduce New York. It is reported fifteen hundred troops have sailed from Rhode Island for Georgia but it wants confirmation. On the 15th Inst. a fleet sailed for Ireland consisting of about ten or fifteen sail. The enemy will shortly be in great want of forage, which they will endeavour to get a supply from the Jersey’s before long, their flat boats in the King’s yard have lately been put in good repair. I frequently see General Clinton amongst the Carpenters, in particular viewing the boats. Ther’s upwards of Seventy Privateers and Letters of Marque from this port and have been very successful. A large French ship arrived here on the 15th with upwards of 500 hhd. of Sugar and 5 tons of Indigo, with some specie and other articles. Sir William Erskin is a fortifieing at and about Southampton and building flat boats, probably they intend to cross and do you some damage. On the 17th it was said a fleet was at the Hook from England but being obliged to leave the city that afternoon I can give no further account about it. Their movements puzzles the greatest politicians and I am at a loss to judge whether we shall have peace or war this Spring. I think upon the whole there is a greater prospect of war than peace. I believe now that the King will endeavour to see if his fleet can get the better of the French Fleet. If they should not he will then make peace with France and quit America. I don’t doubt but by the next appointment we shall know the determination of Parliament and give a better guess. Their success in Georgia under Campbell and as they say Adml. Byron blocking up Count D’Estaing in Martineco and Genl. Grant defeating the French with great loss at St. Lucea, hath given the Enemy fresh spirits. I cannot bear the thoughts of the war continuing another year, as could wish to see an end of this great distress. Were I to undertake to give an account of the sad destruction that the enemy makes within these lines I should fail. They have no regard to age, sex, whig or tory. I lament to hear the depreciation of your money and in particular the civil dissentions among you at Philadelphia. I think them very alarming. It sinks the spirits of our suffering friends here and pleases the enemy. Cannot the disturbers see that they are working their own ruin. Is there no remedy to apply. Better had they be cut off from the land of the living than to be suffered to go on. There’s nothing will give the enemy greater courage than Civil dissentions, and as long as there’s any hope they will endeavour. Thus sir, I have wrote you as fully and clearly as is in my power at this time, and please excuse any imperfections that you may discover. Coll. Floyd returned on his Parole the 16th. I earnestly wrote you for his discharge. I repeat it again, I anxiously desire you would not forget it. I am very likely to stand in need of his services. I desire you will send me one hundred Pounds by the next appointment without fail, as I have spent already forty pounds more than I have received from you. Board is £3 pr. week in New York besides other necessary expenses, postage, &c. I now conclude with my sincere regard and desire for your health and safety.

Samuel Culper.

Sir. Fairfield, April 21, 1779.

Agreeable to your Excellency’s instructions I have forwarded the Vial delivered me and the directions for C——s future conduct. In answer to which he wrote, but as I wished to see him to communicate many things, I appointed an interview at Brook Haven, Long Island, where I met C. on the 16th instant, and was detained on the Island till this morning by a violent storm and contrary winds.

In addition to what C. informs by the enclosed, he has given me some memorandums. You may perceive in the close of his second letter No. 10 he mentions something respecting the transport lately arrived at New York from Rhode Island. He assures me that the business of their mission is a proposed feint, and that by diligent attention and enquiry he finds they are taking on board the remaining baggage of the troops now at Rhode Island. The conjecture among them is that they intend to evacuate that post, and by their taking their baggage from New York they cannot be returning there.

He thinks there never has been such a prospect of peace as at present. Bets are now laying 2 to 1 that there will be a peace in less than 2 months from this. Many of those who have been particularly active against us are selling off their estates. General DeLancey and Mr. McAdams in particular have proposed their estates for sale, neither of them in want of money. In England Government takes up money at most enormous interests, from 10 to 14 per cent.

The Troops at the East End of Long Island are ordered to supply themselves with forage for 14 days, and by the beginning of next month it is thought they will move westward. Most of the flat boats have moved thro’ South bay for New York.

In addition to the 20 Guineas acknowledged to have been received by Culper in the enclosed, I have handed him 30 more. He informs that his expenses are necessarily great, but whenever your Excellency may wish him to discontinue his present correspondence he will most cheerfully quit the employment, as he proposes no advantage to himself from the undertaking. I have urged by letter and verbally the plan of forwarding letters by some shorter route to Headquarters. C. wishes as much as your Excellency to hit on some more speedy mode of conveyance, but finds such a step difficult and dangerous. That same Brown at Bergen, whom your Excellency mentioned to me, C. informs is now in provost on suspicion of having given information of the late movement of the enemy to Elizabeth Town. If he should soon get released C. thinks he would be a very proper man for the business. He will in the mean time pay the greatest attention to the proposal. He says a man may be engaged to reside on Staten Island (if he can be supported) who will receive his dispatches and forward them at all times. In this case some person must be appointed to go across with a boat to an appointed place.

I must now relate an anecdote respecting the Vial which I forwarded Cr. Much pleased with the curious Ink or Stain and after making some experiments with the same, he was set down to answer my letter which accompanied it. He had finished the enclosed when suddenly two persons broke into the room (his private apartment). The consideration of having several officers quartered in the next Chamber, added to his constant fear of detection and its certain consequences made him rationally conclude that he was suspected, and that those steps were taken by said officers for discovery. Startled by so sudden and violent an obtrusion he sprang from his seat, snatched up his papers, overset his table and broke his Vial. This step so totally discomposed him that he knew not who they were, or even to which sex they belonged—for in fact they were two ladies who, living in the house with him, entered his chamber in this way on purpose to surprise him. Such an excessive fright and so great a turbulence of passions so wrought on poor C. that he has hardly been in tolerable health since. The above relation I had from his own mouth. He is much pleased with the Ink, and wishes if any more can be spared, to have a little sent him. By this he thinks he could frequently communicate intelligence by persons permitted to pass the lines.

Some pieces of useful intelligence respecting the movement of the Enemy in this late intended Expedition to New London, and which I have reason to believe in a great measure defeated their intentions, have been communicated by Culper.

There are some men on this side the Sound who conduct most villionously towards the inhabitants of Long Island by lying on the road and robbing the inhabitants as they pass. Cr. was the other day robbed of all his money near Huntington, and was glad to escape with his life. I know the names of several, some of whom under sanction of Commissions for cruising in the Sound land on Long Island and plunder the inhabitants promiscously.

I have now put the Correspondence with Cr. on such a footing that any letter he may forward by the old conveyance will be sent to Capt. Grinell of this place, on whom I can most implicitly depend. He will forward them to Genl. Putnam agreeable to instructions. Any instructions which your Excellency may wish to communicate to Cr. you will please to forward to me as usual, no other person being appointed in this quarter with whom he would be willing to correspond.

The bearer having some business to transact and wishing to see his friends, will return in 4 or 5 days, when your Excellency’s commands and in particular the above mentioned Ink, may be forwarded with safety. I am, with profound Respect, Your Excellency’s most Obedt. Hbl. Servt.

Benj. Tallmadge.

“No. 13 20 June 5, 1779.

“Dear Sir, Your No 7 came to hand and have observed its contents. I Purpose this only to informe you of my Misfortune. On the 24 of April. John Wolsey returned from Connecticut being Paroled by the Company of Prisoners (although taken in a Privateer). And Lodged information against me before Coll. Simcoe of the Queens Rangers who thinking of finding me at Setauket came down but happily I set out for N. York the day before his arrival, and to make some compensation for his voige he fell upon my father and plundered him in a most shocking manner. I hearing of it and his intentions, used every endeavour to defeat his designs which I happily did in a measure by a friend of mine makeing interest with the Genl Aid and only that saved me. But I am very obnoxious to them and think I am in continual danger you will see the contents of the other letter and the proposals there made and at once see the necessity of destroying these letters after perusull.

“I was in town that night you was. I wish I had a known it. I am with esteem Yours &c.

“Samuel Culper.”

“No. 13 20 June 5, 1779—  12

“Sir, Your No 7 came to hand and have duely observed the contents. It is now a long time since I have wrote you, And do assure you not through neglect but owing to the difficulty I have laboured under ever since I saw you—In my other letter I have stated the particulars. And I dre say you will be filled with wonder and surprise, that I have had the good fortune to escape confinement. And am sorry to inform you that it hath rendered me almost unservicable to you. I purpose quitting 10 and residing at 20. As I am now a suspected person I cannot frequent their camp as heretofore. And think only just residing at 10 and be obliged to take up with common reports will not answer your purpose, or make by any means compensation for the expense—I have truely the interest of our Country at heart[66] and could not wish to spend one shilling useless—I shall visit 10 as often as I can with any degree of safety—and have not as yet stoped the channel of intelligence and shall anxiously wait your directions—Weather I shall endeavour to establish a confidential friend to step into my place if agreeable direct in your next and forward the ink—When I have effected this most probable I shall come to you. And shall wish to joyne in the common defence—I shall now endeavour to give you an authentick account of the principle arrivals and departures of all fleets—foreign intelligence, and the temper and expectations of the enemy and movements since the 14th of May, all before hath been forwarded. The latter of which I am sensible can be of little or no service now but may be some satisfaction. About the 15th May sailed a Cork fleet and on the 18 arrived 12 sail from Cork with provisions and serveral private ships have arrived at different times from Europe one bringing the news of the surrender of Pondicherry in India, but I do not believe it yet. you may depend that the Cutter that said to bring the news saild some time from Ireland and of course before the last Cork fleet and they brought no such account. Provisions are very plenty at 10 and a Cork fleet is expected also a large fleet from England with ten thousand troops is said to be expected in, in about ten days. The troops that went from hence last fall for West India and Georgia it is said are about returning. I think it probable for they are very sickly in those quarters. I hear some tell us of Peace amongst you. God grant it may take place on honourable terms. But I must tell you thers less appearance of Peace here now than some time agone—And thers nothing we can hear from Europe that demonstrates it. The spirits of their troops is high, and the expectation of the Tory’s is great to admiration. I hope you will not trust to an uncertainty, but prepare for the worst. I have a long time expected to hear of your appearing in force near the Bridge and keeping them in their strongholds and hope that their present expedition may serve to further convince them of the impracticability of subduing this country. And call your army together and be upon your guard and be very industrious to find out the schemes of the Torys amongst you. Almost every action is handed down by them and men is said to pass (and I believe they do) from hence to the enemy on the frontiers. The enemy have almost intirely quit Long Island and the whole of the force on Long Island does not exceed three hundred only a few individuals left at their different stations they have likewise taken all their baggage from Long Island and on the 29 arrived their Virginia fleet with about 30 prizes mostly small schooners and a number of negroes and some white females, upon the whole that expedition is thought but little of and as the 30 sailed immediately up the river about 20 transports the Raisonable of 64 guns and 2 frigats on the 28th the army and troops in general left 10 together with all their train of artillery that stood on the common. There was not on the 3 instant one thousand troops in and about the city only one Batallion of guards and two small German Regt. to do duty in and about 10 There orders for to raise a number of men for the terme of six months out of the Militia of Kings and Queens Countys to do duty as occasion may require. This is very disagreeable to the inhabitants. On the 3 instant there was only 3 frigates in the river except those before mentioned—Thus sir I shall conclude with this request that you would upon sufficient Perusual consume it for if by any accident this or any other of my letters should fall into the enemy’s hands very probable my handwriting or some circumstance mentioned might be the cause of detection. And conclude with my great desire for your success and welfair. I remain your most obet. H. Servt. Samuel Culper. Just as I was about to seal this I saw a gentleman from 10 that said every sixth man in 10 and the before mentioned places were immediately to be Draughfet I purpose waiting at 20 until I receive an answer from you.

“S. C.”

Sir. No. 14. 20   June 20 1779.

Your No. 8 on the 16 found me at 20 anxiously concerned for our interest, and unwilling it should be neglected, and some reason to fear that by delay the door might be shut and out of my power to perform what I proposed in my No. 13, which I have concluded would be your desire. I thought proper to detain 40 until I went to 10 to endeavour to gain the best intelligence I could, and settle the plan proposed. I returned on the 19th, and my success hath exceeded my most sanguine expectations.—There hath been no arrival of any fleet from any quarter since my last—and the enemy hath not been strengthened. On the 18 Gen. Clinton went out of 10 in person to go to his camp. You may depend their whole force is up the river, and that can’t exceed 8000 men. I expect they are evacuating Rhode Island, if not all part of their troops are coming to 10, it is said four Regiments, this I have from good authority, likewise that it is certainly Gen. Clinton’s positive order and determination to burn all the fields of wheat as soon as they are dry, and intends to exert himself in that to the utmost. They have brought in many cattle. If you don’t exert yourself the country will greatly suffer. A considerable force to march towards the Bridge would make them quit the River and country, for they are very fearful of your getting New York and have frequently said they have in all but just a garrison, it is the admiration of all friends that they can hold their ground up the river. Their strength by sea is trifling. Much the same as mentioned in my last only it is said you have taken the Delaware of 28 guns. It is currently reported in New York that the enemy are entirely defeated near Charles Town, and is believed by some, and the enemy in general trembles for fear if it should be true they acknowledge that it will ruin them. In answer to yours concerning the strength of the enemy at Lloyd’s Neck and what saw mills were sawing for the use of the enemy I cannot give so satisfactory an account about the above questions as I could wish. The former shall endeavour to refer you to Capt. Cornelius Conklin, Major Brush, Capt. Rojers and some others mostly residing at Norwalk that frequently cross near there, the latter shall advise—Coll. Ludlow’s Regiment is very small, don’t exceed 150 men. The Refugees that are there are all armed and take their turn as guards with the regiment, how many I cannot tell but readily conclude they exceed the number in the regiment. I cannot tell whether there’s any cannon in the fort nor how it is situated. Coll. Hulet that commands is a brave officer. Many deserters and refugees that know they will be hanged and think they will make a desperate resistance, and think if it is done at all it must be by surprise.

Tillotson hath a Saw mill at the County House, Havens one at Moriches, Seth Worth one at Fire Place, Humphry Avery one at West Neck, Nichols and one Willets each one at Islip, Edmond Smith at Stony Brook, Samuel Phillips, Caleb Smith, Botts at Smith Town. All alike in serving the King and all professed friends to the country except Havens and Nicols. And it is the nature of the people here, they will do any thing to get money. The navigation of South Bay is now entirely stopped by Whale Boats. I am entirely against destroying property if can be avoided. Saw mills are built with little expense and if torn down no great loss to build again. If people are a mind to be obstinate the following I do not doubt will answer the desired effect. Print in hand bills, let them be conveyed over in all quarters if possible and be posted up, entirely forbidding every saw mill on the Island from stricking a stroke under penalty of destruction of their property, it will most certainly be adhered to, they never will saw no more.

They are determined to raise 400 men out out of the Militia of Long Island. The people in general much against it, and certainly will quit their homes before they will comply.

I have communicated my business to an intimate friend and disclosed every secret and laid before him every instruction that hath been handed to me; it was with great difficulty I gained his complyance, checked by fear. He is a person that hath the interest of our country at heart and of good reputation, character and family as any of my acquaintance. I am under the most solemn obligation never to disclose his name to any but the Post who unavoidably must know it. I have reason to think his advantages for serving you and abilities are far superior to mine.

I must call on you for ten Guineas which will about defray my charges with what I have received. If what I have done is disaproved of it can be dropped, but if mine was worth attention this will not certainly be of less value. You will receive a letter from him in a short time beginning at No. 1. He will expect an ample support, at the same time he will be frugal. As long as I am here shall be an assistant and do all that I can. In the interim I remain Your Most Obt. Huml. Servt. Samuel Culper.

“New Windsor, June 27th, 1779.

“Sir, Your letter of yesterday came safe to my hand, and by the Dragoon who was the bearer of it I send you Ten guineas for C——r.—His successor (whose name I have no desire to be informed of provided his intelligence is good, and seasonably transmitted) should endeavour to hit upon some certain mode of conveying his information quickly, for it is of little avail to be told of things after they have become matter of public notoriety, and known to every body.—This new agent should communicate his signature and the private marks by which genuine papers are to be distinguished from counterfeits.—There is a man on York Island living on or near the North River, of the name of George Higday who I am told hath given signal proofs of his attachment to us, and at the same time stands well with the enemy. If upon enquiry this is found to be the case (and much caution should be used in investigating the matter, as well on his own account as on that of Higday) he will be a fit instrument to convey intelligence to me while I am on the west side of the North River, as he is enterprizing & connected with people in Bergen County who will assist in forming a chain to me in any manner they shall agree on.

“I do not know who H—— employs, but from H—— I obtain intelligence, and his name and business should be kept profoundly secret, otherwise we not only lose the benefits desired from it, but may subject him to some unhappy fate....

“I wish you to use every method in your power through H—— and others, to obtain information of the enemy’s situation—and as far as it is to be come at, designs. C——r speaks of the Enemy’s force up the River as now exceeding 8000 men, but as I know he is mistaken if he comprehends their whole force I should be glad if his successor was cautioned against giving positive numbers by guess.—this is deceptions—let him ascertain the particular Corps which can be no difficult matter to do, & he will soon by taking a little pains, indirectly come at the strength of them and where they lie.

“I am Sir with esteem and regard, Yr. very H. Servt.

“Go. Washington.”

“No 1 New York, 29th June, 1779

“Sir, The present offers nothing material, save that of the arrival of Capt. Mernaid, who left Plimouth the first of May, at which time the Grand fleet for this place had not sailed, and was quite uncertain when they would, and likewise that some Troops now coming out—say not more than three thousand. However as he is a Rebel we do not entirely believe it, but are much afraid that its too true.

“I was this day informed that 2 British Regts. 1 Regt, of Amsuch, Col. Fanning’s Corps & the associated loyalists, is now at white Stone, where they arrived yesterday from Rhode-Island—This I have no doubt of, as it was told me by a person who came passenger with them—He thinks they are to make excursions into Connecticut—and from what I can collect I believe they are, and very soon.

“Most of the Troops are come from Verplanks Point, and are now near and about the Boats. Several Transports are ordered to be in readiness, but no troops embarked.

“We are much alarmed with the prospect of a Spanish war—Should that be the case, I fear poor old England will not be able to oppose the whole but will be obliged to sue for a peace.

“Wou’d wish to write you more particularly, but the person going sooner than I expected prevents.

“I am, Sir, Your Humble Servant,

“Samuel Culper.”

“No. 2 10, July 15th, 1779.

“Sir, I did not mean that No. 1 shou’d be sent as it was wrote, I intended it as hints for my friend S. C. Senr., and expected that he would have wrote you more particularly—the shortness of the notice, and not at that time being sufficiently acquainted with the Character of 30, prevented my writing so particular as I wou’d have wished—However I flatter myself that it was of some service. I saw S. C. Senr. a few days ago, and informed him of the arrival of 10 sail of vessels from the West Indies, with Rum, &c. and a small fleet from Halifax, but no Troops. 12 sail of Cork Victuallers arrived on Sunday last—2 which were then missing are since arrived. Also a ship from Theneruffe loaden with wines—A Fleet, say about six sail, from Jamaica laden with Rum &c. is daily expected; they are to take the advantage of the June Convoy for England. The Romulus of 44 guns fell down to the Hook this day. The Daphni and Delaware Frigates are to fall down tomorrow, with some eight Transports which are said to be bound for Halifax. The Romulus, Daphni, & Delaware are to cruise in Boston Bay for the purpose of annoying their trade, and to intercept a number of Privateers and armed vessels which it is said are now fitting out of Boston. I have conversed with some of the most intelligent of the Masters of the Cork Victuallers, and from what I can collect from them, there will be but few Troops from England this season. Some say, who I am certain do not wish it, that there will not be more than 4 Regiments to this place. Ireland is almost to a man against the present administration, and that most loyal of all Countrys, Scotland, has been for some time past in the greatest confusion, said to be occasioned by a motion made by Lord North for to pass some Laws in favor of the Scotch Roman Catholicks—they have gone so far as to burn that Ministry in Effigie—This is fact.

“I have recd yours of the 10th Inst, and note the contents—The instructions shall be followed as far as in my power. 30 came unexpectedly this evening, and says he must go out tomorrow morning, which prevents my being so particular as I could wish. I did not expect him till saturday. The situation of the army I cannot give you with any exactness; but will endeavour to send it by next opportunity. You may rest assured that I will not give you any intelligence as fact, but such as I am certain is so. I will not intentionally deceive you, as I know that it may be attended with the most fatal consequences. I gave S. C. Senr. some hints concerning a Christopher Duyckenik, formerly Chairman of the Committee of Mechanicks of this place, and hope he has transmitted. This much I will inform you, that he has acted as agent for David Mathews from the commencement of the war. The particulars must be kept a profound secret, as few persons but myself know them, and it is known that I do. Note a paragraph in Rivington’s paper of the 10th Inst. under the N.Yk. head, and you’ll observe that something has either leaked out or they have conjectured very right.

“I am, Sir, Your Humble Servant,

“Samuel Culper, Junr.”

August 6, 1779

Since my last the number of the enemy within these lines have not been augmented by arrivals. I have received your favour of the 30th of July with the vials 1 and 2—The contents shall be duly observed. The Raisonable with four frigates sailed from this the day I mentioned—but did not sail from the Hook till a few days ago. The Rainbow with two sloops of war are said to be cruising off the Delaware Bay. The Romulus with two frigates are supposed to be cruising in Boston-bay—and the Greyhound is cruising alone. I am sorry that I cannot give you an exact account of the situation of the troops. You may think that I have not taken sufficient pains to obtain it. I assure you that I have, and find it more difficult than I expected. It is in some measure owing to my not having got into a regular line of getting intelligence. To depend upon common reports would not do. I saw and conversed with two officers of different corps from Kings-bridge from neither of whom I could obtain an account of the situation of the army there. I was afraid of being too particular. I saw a person who had been throughout all West Chester and came in yesterday, who told me that there were 2000 troops out from Kingsbridge. This I by no means give as certain. The number on Staten Island does not exceed 1000. The whole of the guards, two Hessian Regiments. The 54th and some of the 46th in town. A detachment of 100 from the Hessians are at Brookline, and the 3d Battalion of G. DeLancey’s brigade consisting of about 200 are at Lloyd’s Neck, Long Island, near half of which are acting as marines on board armed vessels, and a guard of about 20 men are at Jamaica, where G. D. resides. These are all on Long Island. They have begun to fortify at the narrows on the Staten Island side and to refit the fortifications at the battery in this city. They have done nothing more than lay the platforms and not but one gun mounted, which has been there for a long time past. The cannon for the forts are expected in the fleet. We have positive accounts of the French having taken the Island of St. Vincent and Grenada, and that there has been an engagement between Byron and D’Estaing in which according to public reports Byron came off victorious. But from many circumstances we have reason to believe he had the worst of it: and indeed all the most intelligent of the tories think so. This with Stoney-point and the uncertainty when the fleet from England will arrive, discourages them very much. Admiral Arbuthnot certainly did sail for this port, but hearing that the French had landed on the Island of Jersey, went there, where he may meet with such diversion as may detain him for some time. There appears no prospect of a speedy movement from this. But it is generaly reported and believed by the most knowing ones that there will be a detachment sent from this to the southward as soon as the works are put in a proper state of defence. However some think that no troops can be spared at any rate till a reinforcement arrives.

Arrivals: A small fleet from Rhode Island a few days ago. The Renown from same place on Wednesday evening, and last evening a privateer brig of 14 guns belonging to New London taken by the Greyhound off the east end of Long Island. A fleet of four or five armed ships will sail in about a week for the West Indies. The guard boats are still kept out which makes it impossible to send any letters by a shorter route. As soon as I can find an opportunity you may depend that I will embrace it. The Renown and Daphne are the only ships of war in port. In my next will if possible give you a particular account of the situation of the troops. Yours,

Culper, Junr.

“722 to 721. No. 23   729 August 12, 1779.

“Sir, Your several Nos. 13, 14, & 15, are before me. The contents have duly observed and communicated them to Culper Jur. and he hath in general replyed, that have only to add, That your fears of the Queens Rangers crossing the Sound, I think must be groundless. I think the main reason of their being stationed ther’s to Succor Coll. Ludloe’s Regt, on Lloyd’s Neck if need should require, and to recruit their Horses and men, that are much worne down with service. Agreeable to your request, shall endeavour to gain every intelligence from that and every other quarter and communicate. Your observations concerning the bad tendency that might follow the Capture of certain Persons mentioned heretofore, is worthy of due consideration. And perhaps it will be best to let them fill up the measure of their Sins, and ripen for greater ruin. If it had been done instantly after the capture of some persons here I should have feared no danger that might have risen from such a step. You could have stoped plundering here nevertheless—To have taken two for one then, matter not wheather Whig or Tory, would have been pollitick in you, and a glorious barrier in favour of our Country, and Nutrallity, for as they are continually pressing us to be active, and daily cursing of us for not complying, and laying at your mercy and unprotected by them; and suffering for so small an affair, perhaps would induce them to think more favorable of us, and consider our situation, and treat us with more compassion.—I say if ever such an opportunity should present again, I shall beg that it may be embraced, and would be highly favorable to this unhappy country, now universally throughout attended with the greatest sickness and frequent deaths that ever was remembered by the oldest man now living. And dayly threaten’d by that Judas Tryon. Devastation or banishment for not complying with their exorbitant demand enclosed when striped of Items, and out of our Power to fulfill—don’t let the inclosed be published in News Paper.

“Your desire that no time may be lost after dispatches arrive hath ever been complyed with, at appointed times, I always attended. When he comes unexpectedly it hath been unavoidably attended with some loss of time, once in particular, owing to a certain persons family being sick, and attendance there which debared him from making himself known. A step on purpose to acquaint me. I received a message from a person that I intimated in my last was an acquaintance of Hamiltons, three days ago, that 4 or 5 Regts. were embarking, generally said for Quebeck had taken altogether thick clothing, yet nevertheless he thought most likely for Georgia, and believed they all had but a short time to stay here.

“I have had much discourse with Culper, Jur. Contrary to his intimation and my expectation, he continues in business, that engroseth some part of his time, and interfereth with the important business he hath undertaken. I do assure you he is a sincere friend and capable of rendering service to our country. And as such a one I have again most earnestly endeavored and beged him to disengage himself from all concerns that may intefere with the Public business he hath undertaken. His reply in substance was this, that he feared his inability. He was willing to do all he could to serve his Country, and not leave himself entirely out of the line of business, and be destitute of a support.”