To George Washington from John Stark, September 1781

Since my last, nothing extraordinary has turned up in this department, except seven deserters, who shall be sent to you as soon as possible; and a few tories that have been taken on the frontiers. I inclose you a copy of a letter found with one of them, and am in hopes, by this time, that the writer is a prisoner likewise.

I am informed that forty-seven of the enemy’s Indians are coming down here to make a treaty with us, while their young men are cutting our throats. I think, until their insolence is chastised in a severe manner, we never can expect peace in this quarter. The bearer of this, Major Guather, has found fifty-five shells, twelve boxes musket balls, one vise, and one pair hand-screws in the river near Saratoga. It is reported that the enemy sunk some cannon in the river. I should think a farther search would be necessary, but, by reason of the scarcity of men, it has been neglected. I am, sir, &c., &c.,