George Washington to Thomas Wharton
Head Qurs., Germantown, September 13, 1777.
Sir: I was this morning honored with yours of yesterday. I am pleased to find, that you have ordered an additional number of Militia to assemble at the Swedes Ford, at which and the other practicable passages for some distance up the River, I have directed small close Redoubts to be thrown up. This work will be executed under the Command and direction of Genl. Armstrong, who will also employ some of the Militia at present in the Field, upon the same Service.
I wish it were in my power to turn any part of my present force, to the Completion of the Works upon Delaware, but in our present Situation, it cannot be afforded; except Genl. Howe can be checked upon land, the obstructions in the River will be of little avail, for if he can once totally defeat this Army, he will take possession of the Forts of course and turn our own Guns upon our Ships, Galleys and floating Batteries. In my opinion, the River would be Sufficiently Secured against any Sudden attack by Water only, if the City Artillery Companies were thrown into Fort Mifflin, and all the Vessels of War of different kinds, drawn up behind the Chevaux de Frize. I have given orders to Colo. Penrose1 to overflow the Ground upon Province Island, which will render it impossible for the Enemy to approach the Fort in the rear and raise Batteries against it. As I am well apprized of the importance of Philadelphia, you may rest assured, that I shall take every Measure in my power to defend it, and I hope you will agree with me in Sentiment that the only effectual method will be to oppose Genl Howe with our whole united Force. I am this moment favored with yours of this date and thank you for your Compliance to my request for removing the Continental Soldiers, who may be loitering in the City. I have the honor etc.2