Fort Mifflin

Head Quarters, October 16, 1777.

Sir: With the Regiment you command and what Baggage you think is absolutely necessary, you are immediately to proceed to Bristol, cross the Delaware at that place and continue your Route to Red Bank; this march should be performed with the utmost secrecy and under pretence of Covering the stores at Bristol, until you arrive at that place, as the Enemy might endeavour to intercept you should your Route be known. Upon your arrival at Red Bank, you are to consult with Commodore Hazelwood and Colonels Green and Smith and act in such manner as you think will be most conducive to the security of the Posts in general without considering yourselves as attached to any particular one. I think it more than probable, that the greatest part of your men will be wanted in fort Mifflin, and as you have many Seamen, you will give the Commodore every assistance which may be thought prudent and necessary. I have no doubt but you will use your utmost Exertions, both in the Expedition of your March, and after your arrival, for the Tenure and security of the Posts you go to defend. As an opposition made in that Quarter, becoming brave and determined Officers, will greatly facilitate the Operations of this Army, and distress that of the Enemy to such a degree as must very soon place them in a most hazardous and disagreeable situation. I am &ca.1

1. 1. The draft is in the writing of John Fitzgerald.