The Freeman's Journal, Or, New Hampshire Gazette

PROVIDENCE. November 2

Extract of a Letter from an Officer in the American
Army, dated near New Rochelle (in the Neighbourhood
of New-York) October 20, 1776

"The great the important day is at hand:
perhaps tomorrow may decide the fate of America.
Read's and Shepard's regiments performed wonders;
they killed and wounded 1000 of the enemy at least,
and had not more than 27 men killed and wounded.
The enemy have proceeded to New Rochelle, and
are about four miles in length. Express informs us,
that 4000 or 5000 of them are landed below. We are
all well prepared, & our men in high spirits. I fear
General Sullivan's zeal and activity will destroy his
constitution, already shocked by hardship. The enemy
are endeavouring to out-flank us if possible,
and are also endeavouring to out-flank us: but we
are stretched safeguard, keeping position or command
of Hudson's River. We determine to keep the command
of said river, and prevent them from out-flanking. till
we can get them in a proper situation for an attack.
I am more and more convinced that war is the greatest
science upon earth. Those regiments which are best
disciplined make the best stand. Our Massachusetts
boys fought them in open field."