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Daily National Intelligencer
Washington, District Of Columbia
What is this article about?
In a letter dated September 20, 1814, from Fort Erie, Maj. Gen. Jacob Brown informs Secretary of War James Monroe of the mortal wounding and death of his aide Capt. Ambrose Spencer during the Battle of Niagara Falls. Brown agrees to exchange the deceased Spencer for British Capt. Loring, held prisoner, honoring a prior offer from Lt. Gen. Drummond, and requests Loring's immediate release.
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SIR—Among the officers lost to this army in the battle of Niagara Falls, was my Aid-de-camp Capt. Ambrose Spencer, who, being mortally wounded, was left in the hands of the enemy. By flags from the British army, I was shortly afterwards assured of his convalescence, and an offer was made me by Lt. Gen. Drummond to exchange him for his own Aid, Capt. Loring, then a prisoner of war with us. However singular this proposition appeared, as Captain Loring was not wounded, nor had received the slightest injury, I was willing to comply with it on Capt. Spencer's account; but as I knew his wounds were severe, I first sent to ascertain the fact of his being then living. My messenger, with a flag was detained, nor even once permitted to see Capt. S. though in his immediate vicinity. The evidence I wished to acquire failed, but my regard for Capt. Spencer would not permit me longer to delay, and I informed General Drummond that his Aid should be exchanged even for the body of mine. This offer was, no doubt, gladly accepted, and the corpse of Captain S. sent to the American shore.
Indignant, as I am, at this ungenerous procedure, I yet hold myself bound in honor to Lieut. Gen. Drummond to return Capt. Loring; and must, therefore, earnestly solicit of you his immediate release. He can return to Lieut. Gen. Drummond by the way of Montreal.
Very respectfully, sir, your most obedient servant,
JAC. BROWN.
Hon. JAMES MONROE,
Secretary of War.
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Domestic News Details
Primary Location
Fort Erie
Event Date
Sept. 20, 1814
Key Persons
Outcome
capt. ambrose spencer mortally wounded in battle, died, body returned to american side; capt. loring to be released and returned via montreal.
Event Details
During the battle of Niagara Falls, Capt. Ambrose Spencer was mortally wounded and captured by the enemy. Lt. Gen. Drummond offered to exchange him for his aide Capt. Loring, a prisoner with the Americans. Brown agreed, even after learning Spencer had died, and the body was sent back. Brown requests Spencer's release to honor the agreement.