To George Washington from William Heath, 28 June 1782

Dear General

Highlands June 28th 1782

The enclosed from Capt. Pray came to hand yesterday. The one from Colonel Greaton, covering one from Major Gotchkins this morning at 2 oClock; if the latter account be true, an evacuation of New York may follow, as the Enemy may be collecting their Force to some other point. I shall order the Army to be in readiness to move on the shortest notice, and endeavour to act as occasion may require or circumstances render eligible. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

W. Heath

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

Enclosure

Dear General

Nyack June 26th 1782

Last evening a Ship came up to [Spetenawel] Creek, and came to an anchor near the []. all the Heavy Cannons which were taken out of the Works on York Island are on Staten Island. they have Got a Hundred pieces of heavy Cannon mounted in their works at that place.

They are fortifing the City on the North River.

There is no duty done in the City but what the Militia does.

I have not been able to Get papers Since I saw Your Honor. I have the Honor to be with Every Sentiment of Respect your Honrs most Obet Svt

Jno. Pray Capt.

Enclosure

Bergen County June 27 1782

Worthy frind by this opportunity I Inform your Honour, that I Learn by a Captin of the Militia of this Quarters who left Newark yesterday that the Brithish have left Stadt Iland Intirely and have destroyed their works it is a report here that the Ennemie mean to make a movement toward Newingland. I hope your Honour will be pleased to let General Heath know this. I have noting more at Present but remain yours, with submission

Joh. Mauritius Goetschius

Major of the Militia

Enclosure

Sr	Dobb’s ferry June 27th 1782 4 OClock P.M.

I have the honor to Inclose you a Letter that I this moment receiv’d—The Bearer of which Inform’s me that the within nam’d Majr told him, that numbers of the Inhabitants had come off Statten Island, to beg the people not to plunder them—I have hear’d a firing of Cannon the Most part of this Day—I am Dear General Yours Sincerely

J. Greaton

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