PART II
Journals
“Part of G McIntosh’s Journal”60
20th very busy in prepareing for my Journey, Stoped in to Genl. McIntosh’s abt. 9 oClock. Soon after the provt. Marshals Deputy came with a Note Directed to G. M. desiring my Body to be immediately delivered to him. Such a suden and unexpected Note surprised me much and went out of the Genls. House directly to enquire about Town what such a suden demand was for. I was soon inform’d by a Gentleman of undoubted vorasity that the Govr. & Council had Resolved in a private manner to send me with one Col. Ferrel, a man of an infamous character, and 20 men in the most ignomeneous manner they could to Congress, and soon after I was informed that Ferrel intended carrying me in Irons thro the Continent, which report has since been confirm’d by Capt. Nash who Col. Ferrel dispatched after me being inform’d in N. C. that I was on my Way to Congress. Such proceedings in the Govr. & Council alarmed me very much after what they had promised me the monday before which made me determine to keep out of there way for a little time to see if they would reconsider my case and permit me to go as they had first promised with Capt. Scott & another Gentln. and wrote a letter every three or four days to that purpose another motive I had in writing was to Let them know that I had not Left the State, as I had been twice in the Marshels Custody. I was Certain my security’s had nothing to do with me, but the Bond had not been taken up from the Marshel, they thought then to come upon the Security’s notwithstanding they had siesed all my Estate. I then sent to all my Security’s informing them of my intention to go to Congress without their Guard or Leave provided they had no objection, as it was all along my own intention & request to them to Let me go to Congress to clear my character, which will appear by the Resolve of Council which enlarged me on Baile. all that I could see or hear from of my Security’s gave it as their opinion & advice that I should procd. immediately to Congress to assert my Innocence, and in order that they might have no Plea against me advised and requested me to endeavour to be back by the time the Court sat in Georgia to take my trial there also in case the Congress did not acquit me—which advice I took and set off immediately with Mr. Andrew Donaldson who was going to Philadelphia on the 19th. July without waiting to Send for my Cloathes which was 50 mile out of Town, Mr. Jonan. Bryan accompanyed us 40 mile from Savannah, Mr. D. & myself then proceeded on our Journey without any interuption through So. & North Carolina untill the 6th. of Augt. we then being within 16 mile of Virginia Capt. Nash of the 3d Georgia Battalion came up with us with three or four others and after riding four or five miles in our Company, informed me that he and Col. Ferrel having come to Charlotte a small Town in N Carolina was inform’d that we had passed along some days before, and that Col. Ferrel gave him orders to pursue me with all Speed as also to press Men & Horses, and when he came up with me to shew no kind of Indulgence but on the Contrary to use me in a very rough and harsh manner. Capt. Nashs reply to him was (as he told me) Sir, in obedience to your orders I will pursue Mr. McIntosh but my treatment to that Gentlen. when I come up with him must be left to me. Capt. Nash then shewed me the order the Govr. had given to Col. Ferrel when first he was appointed to go with me to Congress, and added, “Sir I am sorry that I should be sent upon such a disagreable errand but you know I must obey my Superior officers, however Sir you may be assured [end of manuscript]
“Part of Journal in to the Delaware Country Octobr ‘78”61
We left Camp No.11, about 12 oClock this Day Marched 3 Miles came to the Fork of Muskingum river and crossed at the old Tuscara war [Tuscarawas] Town. The fording place was very deep owing the snow we have had for these past five howers our brave little Armey who ever [never?] think any thing to [be] too Difficult for them to surmount, plunged Officers & Men into the Creek sometime up to the waters [end of manuscript]
“Journal of the Siege of Charlestown, 1780”62 Journal
Ponpon, Parsonage Saturday the 12th. Feby. 1780.
Heard that between forty & fifty Sail of the Enemys Ships came in yesterday at No. Edisto Inlet, and were Landed in force upon Johns Island. Note, the British fleet arrived off Stonoe Inlet the 9th. Feby. (8c alarm fired)
Sunday the 13th. February 1780.
Set off this Day with my Family two waggons Northwardly, crossed ponpond River at Parkers ferry, & Lodged this Night at Mr. J. Mcqueen’s planta.
Monday the 14th. Feby.
Heard the Enemy Landed some Light Troops at Stonoe,— that our Light Horse were ordered, & upon their March from Sheldon, (our Infantry Stationed there having passed some days ago)—we crossed over Bacon Bridge & through Dorchester to Mr. Lartezettes at Goose Creek where we were detained this Night & all the next Day & Night. Sent Letter to Genl. Lincoln & recd. an Answer giving leave to fix my Family.
Wednesday the 16th. Feby. 1780.
Met Genl. Huger with his Family at Monks Corner going up the Country—here we heard that Murrays ferry [was] impassable with Carriages which determined me to go higher up Santee River to put up this Night at Mr. Thos. Sabbs.
Thursday 17th. Feby.
Baited at Martins and put up this Night at Nelson’s Ferry.
Friday the 18th. Feby.
Crossed the Ferry with much difficulty, and Lodged this Night at Colo. Sumpter’s where we were weather bound all the next day and night and very genteely treated.
Put up this Night at Capt. Richardson’s at the entrance of the high Hills.
Monday the 21st. Feby. 1780
Came to a House upon the high Hills belonging to Morton Wilkinson, Just Evacuated by a Capt. Chisolm, where we stayed till Sunday morning trying to get an empty House in this Neighborhood to no purpose.
Sunday the 27th. Feby.
Set off this Morning for Cambden & put up this Night at one McCormicks a Little Inhospitable House over [blank] Creek.
Monday the 28th. Feby. 1780.
Put up this Night at old payn’s House upon Pine tree, or Town Creek in Sight of Cambden where we stayed all the next day & were visited by Messrs. Jo. Kershaw Jo. Habersham E. Telfair &ca.
Tuesday the 29th. Feby. 1780
Moved this Evening to a Little Shop in Cambden which was the only Vacant House Colo. Kershaw could procure for me, & was Lyable to be turned out every Hour, as it was engaged for Genl. Huger’s Family if they came that Length.
My old Friend & acquaintance Jo. Kershaw was kind enough to promise he would Supply my Family with provision during my absence, & took the few Slaves I had Left to work with his own, upon Shares Saw here the Governors proclamation of 2d. March &ca.
I Stayed here Settling these Matters, & my Family Untill
Wednesday the 8th. March 1780.
Sett off this Morning with Lt. Colo. Hopkins (Just from Virginia) for Charlesto.—crossed the Wateree River at Cambden, & took up the Night at Mrs. McCords, Congree Ferry.
Thursday the 9th. March
Baited at the fine Springs of Utaw, & Lodged the Night at [blank’s] Tavern at Manigaults Ferry altho my old friend & Country Man Wm. LeConte lived close by—here I met my Son Lackie going from Charlesto. to see his Mother at Cambden in his way to Augusta, & as the direct Road was not Safe traveling, which he experienced going there from ponpon when he Set off from the day we left it.
Baited at Martins, & Lodged at Mr. Thos. Sabbs all Night.
Saturday the 11th. March 1780
Heard Cannon all this Day as we rid along the Road, which made us impatient—that Genl. Moultrie who Commanded the Horse at Bacon Bridge was taken Sick, & Genl. Huger Sent to take that Command in his room;—it consisted of Bland’s, Boyler’s Polaskys [Pulaski’s] & Horrys Corps, with Some Voluntiers—altoge[the]r abot. 250 Horse;—came to Charlestown in the Evening, & put up at Mrs. Minis’s, tho’ disagreeable upon Accot. of some Brittish Prisoners quartered at her House.—Hogans Brigade arrived in Town 3d. Instant.
Sunday the 12th. March
As I did not find Genl. Lincoln at home last Night I waited upon him this Morning,—found the Enemy had possession of James Island since the latter end of Feby. & were now errecting a work upon Bunkers Hill, behind Fort Johnston.—We saw their Fleet, Transports, Store-ships, Merchant Men &ca in Stonoe River, through Wappoe Cut, from Fergusons House in Trad Street & some Men of War over the Barr.—our Horse skirmished near Ashly Ferry.
Monday the 13th. March
The Enemy burnt Fenwick’s House on Wappoo Neck (made a Pest House for the Small pox) & errected a Battery there of four (six) heavy Cannon, distance [blank] yds from Town.
I was ordered to take the Command of the So. Caro. Country Militia, (See General orders).
Tuesday 14th. March 1780.
The Enemy errected another Battery of two heavy Cannon So. Side of Ashly River about Herveys above the other, & a Bomb Battery upon a rising ground between the two Gun Batteries,—the latter never played.
Wednesday the 15th. March.
A Colonel’s Command kept some time past at Ashley Ferry this Side, were withdrawn this day & marched down to Gibb’s, abot. 1½ Miles from our Lines, where we had a Picquett before.—only 25 Men for a Look out Left at the ferry.
The Light Infantry of Hogans Brigade ordered to relieve the Command at Gibbes’s—twelve Sail Shipping seen off of the Barr.
Friday the 17th. March.
My Family, Servants, Horses &ca. were moved yesterday to new quarters, Mr. Lowndes House where Genl. Hogun Lodged, near Ferguson’s—& early this Morning went to it myself.—recd. Letter by Capt. Nash from president of Congress-date 15th. Feby.
Saturday the 18th.
The Enemy’s Ships off the Barr disapeared being Stormy last Night.
Sunday the 19th.
The Enemy’s Ships appeared again off the Barr being fine weather.
Monday the 20th.
This Morning the Enemy’s Shipping (Men of War) came over the Barr,—8. from 20. to 50. Gunns.
Tuesday the 21st.
Our Ships—the Providence of 30. the Boston of 32. the Queen of France of 18 & the Ranger of 20 Guns Continental, with the Truit (Adventure) the Charlestown Militia are ordered from the right of the Lines to the So. Bay as formerly.—General Hogan takes their place on the Line—Genl. Woodford on his Left &c. & ca.
Sunday the 9th.
The Enemy last Night carryed on their approaches from their Left Redoubt, & threw up a Battery for Ten Cannon against the Angle of our advanced Redoubt or half Moon Battery—and the Redan No. 7—Cannonading as usual & some at their Shipping at Fort Johnson without effect.
Monday the 10th. April.
Sr. Henry Clinton & Admiral Arbuthnot sent in a Flagg Summoning the Garrison & Town to Surrender. (See the Summons No. I)63—to which Genl. Lincoln immediately, & without Consulting any one, Sent them for answer, that his Duty & inclination Led him to hold out to the last extremity.—See his Answer in full, No. 2. this Evening Capt. Jno. Gilbank killed by accident in Bolton’s Battery &ca. &ca.
The Enemy use double diligence now in Compleating their Works & Mounting their Cannon. whilst we ply them with our Cannon and Mortars as Usual, and they from their Gallies & Battery West side of Ashly River in return.— (Jno. Houstoun went over)
Wednesday the 12th.
The Same as yesterday on both sides, it is said some several flat bottomed Boats were hauled on Land by the Enemy across the Neck from Ashly to Cooper River.—
This Day Genl. Lincoln Sent for the General Officers to his Marque & presented a Letter to them directed to Govr. Rutledge which they all Signed Signifying their Opinion in Support of the Generals (already given) that the Governor & part of the Council at least ought to Leave the Garrison, for many Substantial Reasons.
Thursday the 13th. April 1780.
Between Nine & Ten this Morning The Enemy opened all their Gun & Morter Batterys at once (being the first time they fired upon the Town or our Lines upon the front) & continued a furious Cannonade & Bombarding with little intermissions till Midnight, their Batterys from Wappoo playing upon the Left flank of our Lines & the Town at the same time, & their Gallies from Wappoo Creek during the Night as usual, which we returned Smartly from our Lines, & we presume with good effect.— a Sergt. & private of No. Carolina killed, & some Women & Children in Town, the Houses are much damaged & two were burned down near Genl. Moultrie’s, Anson bg. [bourough], by Carcases of which they threw several from Ten Inch Mortars.—their Cannon are chiefly twenty four pounders opposite our Lines & 36 pounders upon Wappoo their Morters from 5½ to 13. (10) Inches.
one Embrasure at Redan No. 7 destroyed, & also a twenty Six pounder in the flanking Battery on the right, & an eighteen pounder in the Latter dismounted with some other smaller damage.
All the General Officers were called by Genl. Lincoln to his quarters this Morning where he gave us the first Idea of the State of the Garrison, the Men, provisions, Stores Artillery &c in it—the little hopes he had of any succour of Consequence & the opinion of the Engineers respecting our Fortifications: that they were only Field works, or Lines, & could hold out but few days more.—with every information he could obtain of the Numbers & Strength of the Enemy &ca. &ca. [he was compelled to] take up the Idea, & Consider of the Propriety of evacuating the Garrison when without hesitation I gave it as my own opinion that as we were so unfortunate as to suffer ourselves to be penned up in the Town, & cut off from all resources in such Circumstances,—we should not loose an hour longer in attempting to get the Continental Troops at Least out, while we had one side open yet over Cooper River, upon whose safety, the Salvation not only of this State but some other will (may) probably depend & which I think all the other Gentn. seemd to acquiesce in.
The General said he only desired now that we should consider maturely of the expediency & practicability of such a Measure by the time he would send for us again & the Cannonade mentioned this Morning from the Enemy beginning broke up the Council abruptly.
Governor Rutledge & part of his Council went over Cooper River abt. 12 o’Clock this Day.
Friday the 14th. April
The Enemy are approaching fast upon the right & keep up an Incessant fire from their small Arms, Cannon, and Morters.
a Sergt. of No. Caro. killed by a Cannon Ball—also two Matrosses of So. Caro. & one of Militia Artillery by two of our Cannon going off while they were Loading them Capt. Hill says our Horse were surprised this Day at Monks Corner —killed [blank] Men & an Officer with [blank] Horses taken
Saturday the 15th April.
The Enemy continue Approaching fast on our right.— our Mortars are ordered to the Right to annoy them.—A continual fire of small Arms Cannon & Mortars from the Enemy
A Battery of two Guns opened by the Enemy at Stiles’s place on James Island.—which played constantly on the Town —distance across 82. Chain.—many of the Enemys Boats hauled over the Neck into Town Creek.—two of them mounted with brass Cannon came down the Creek this Morning & fired at the Ranger & Adventure
Two eighteen pounders,—a quantity of Provisions, & other Valuable Articles were got out of the Wreck of the Vessel near Fort Moultrie.—It is said the Enemy attempted to Land on Hobcaw Neck from two Gun Boats, but were prevented by Colo. Malmedy (Capt. Theus).—Cannonading &ca. on both sides all day & Night as usual. the new Church Steeple struck by a 24 lb. Ball from James Island Battery.—pits arm broke off &ca.—Major Hogg with detachment of [blank] Men ordered over this night to Lampriers point.
Monday the 18th. say 17th. April
An Inhabitant of the Town killed, & a Woman wounded in bed together.—the approaches continued to the Right.— The Enemy advanced their Bomb Battery within 800. yds. of our Lines.
Note: Signed a Letter Genl. Lincoln brought to my qrs.
Tuesday the 18th. April.
The Enemy continue Aproaching fast.—and firing from their Cannon Mortars & Small Arms.—We advanced a Small Breast Work nearly fronting the square redoubt for Rifle Men, to annoy the Enemy in their Approaches.—Mr. Ph. Neyle A D C. to Genl. Moultrie killed by a Cannon Ball.-two Men killed by small Arms and three wounded by a Shell.—a Soldier of Colo. Neville had an arm shot off by our own Cannon while he was Sentrie outside the Abbaties.— also two french Men wounded, one lost a Legg & the other an Arm.
a twelve pounder burst in the Horn Work by which two Men were much hurt.—the Enemy do not now throw large shells as they have done, but Showers of small ones from their Mortars & Howitzers, which prove very mischievous, especially on our right where one Man was killed & two wounded of the No. Carolinians.
We hear that our Cavalry under Genl. Huger were surprised near Monks Corner & have been totaly defeated, that we lost between 20. & 30 killed & wounded, among the former Major Vernier of Pulaskis Legion—& 150 Horses about forty of the Virginians got in last Night over Cooper River.
A Large party of the Enemy marched up the Country, crossed Wando River & took post at the Church, Hobcaw Neck.—General Scott with the Light Infantry crossed over Cooper River, to Lampriers before day this Morning with private orders to secure Wapetaw or advantageous Bridge for the retreat of the army &ca. in order to keep open the Communication if possible, as any fresh provision we got was from that quarter.—Lt. Colonels Webster, Tarleton & Robertson are said to have Commanded the Enemy’s party who surprised our Horse the 14th. Inst. & gone over Cooper & Wando Rivers afterwards—they say 700 Infy. & 300 Horse
Wednesday the 19th. April.
The Enemy continued their approaches to our right within 250. Yards of the front of the Square redoubt.—and began an approach from the Left Battery towards our advanced Redoubt or half Moon Battery, & moved some of their Mortars into the Latter.—A Considerable party of them shewed themselves before our post at Lampriers this Morning, but soon retreated upon giving them some Cannon Shot.—our party there was too small to pursue them.—Genl. Scot mounted some Men upon his own, & other Officers Horses to reconnoitre them & get intelligence, & then being sent for sett off for Town to a Council of Warr who (which) met this Morning at Genl. Moultries Quarters, having attempted it repeatedly before, at Genl. Lincolns, but as often interrupted so much, that we could come to no determination, or do any business; also to accommodate Colo. Lemoy [Laumoy] who was Sick.—besides the General Officers at this Council, Colo. Lamoy and Colo. Beekman were called to it to represent the Engineer & Artillery Departmts. & Colo. Simmons as Commdt. of the Town Militia when the subject first proposed to be considered upon the 13th Instant, & several times since at our Meetings was again offered by Genl. Lincoln, & the Returns of the Army, Comissarys (Provisions &ca. &ca.) laid before the Council with a charge of the greatest Secrecy in that as well as any determination that may be taken. Some Gentlemen seem’d still inclined to an evacuation notwithstanding the difficulty appeared much greater now than when formerly (first) Mentioned, which was my own opinion, also, & I proposed Leaving the Militia for the Guards &ca. in Garrison.— untill the Continental Troops Cleared themselves but was carryed against us by the arguments of Colo. Lemoy and for offering Honl. terms of Capitulation upon Hon. Terms fixed—in the Midst of our Conference the Lt. Governor Gadsden happened to come in whether by Accident or design is not known, & General Lincoln proposed he might be allowed to Sit as one of the Council, he appeared surprised & displeased that we had entertained a thought of a Capitulation or evacuating the Garrison, and (tho he) acknowledged himself entirely ignorant of the State of the provisions &ca. &ca. before, but said he would Consult his Council & promised that if it was determined by us to Capitulate, he would Send such Articles as they required for the Citizens of Charlestown in an hour or two.
Adjourned in the Evening to Genl. Lincolns quarters where Colo. Lamoy representing the insufficienty of our Fortifications (if they were worthy of being called so) the improbability of holding out many days Longer, & the impracticability of making our Retreat good as the Enemy were now situated, carryed it for offering (trying first) terms of Honle. Capitulation first Unanimously in whieh I Joined after requesting to be the last Voiee, as all the rest had been of that opinion. The Lt. Govr. with four of his Council Messrs. Ferguson Hutson Cattle & Dr. Ramsey in a Little after, Used the Council very Rudely, the Lt. Govr. declaring he would protest against our proceedings.—that the Militia were willing to Live upon Rice alone rather than give up the Town upon any Terms.—& that even the old Women were so accustomed to the Enemys Shot now that they traveled the Streets without fear or dread, but if we were determined to Capitulate he had his terms in his pocket ready. Mr. Ferguson on the other hand said [illegible word] the Inhabitants of the Town observed several days (some time) ago the Boats Collected together to carry off the Continental Troops, but that they would keep a good Watch upon us the army & if it was ever attempted he would be among the first who would open the Gates for the Enemy and assist them in attacking us before we got aboard.
After the Lt. Govr. & Counselors were gone some time, Colo. C. C. Pinkney came in abruptly upon the Council, & forgetting his usual Politeness, addressed Genl. Lincoln in great warmth & much the same Strain as the Lt. Governor had done, adding that those who were for business required no Councils & that he came over on purpose from Fort Moultrie to prevent any terms being offered the Enemy or evacuating the Garrison, & addressing himself to Colo. Lemoy, charged the Engineer Dept. with being the sole Authors & promoters of any proposals &ca. &ca.
I was myself so much hurt by the repeated Insults given to the Commanding Officer in so public a Manner, & obliquely to us all through him, that I could not help declaring as it was thought impracticable to get the Continental Troops out I was for holding the Garrison to the last extremity, which was at once agreed to except by Colo. Lamoy who said we were already come to the last extremity, or if we were not of that opinion, desired, to know what we called the last extremity. but it was carryed without other opposition to hold out & we parted this Night.—I desired a Letter Signed by Genl. Moultrie & myself the 17th. might be destroyed which [was] done before us.
Thursday 20th. June [sic] 1780.
This morning fourteen Sail of Shipping appeared off of the Barr said to be a Reinforcement to General Clinton, having a fine day, cold & windy.—two of our Magazines blown up by shells in Gibs Battery on the right; only one man hurt, but much other damage
This day General Lincoln called a Council of Warr again, same Members as yesterday.—and the same Subjects debated on.—Colo. Lamoy still insisting upon the Impossibility of holding out the Garrison much Longer, and a Retreat seeming to him impracticable, proposed, that the Honle. Terms of Capitulation should first be offered, which possibly might be accepted by Genl. Clinton, or, if it did not succeed that we might then attempt a retreat if we thought it could be accomplished.
The opposition now expected from the Citizens of the Town in evacuating it, in addition to the former obstacles we had in consideration Vizt. a Large party of Foot & Horse upon Wando Neck, & a number of the Enemys boats hawled aCross Charlesto. Neck from Ashly into Cooper River &ca. induced the whole Council to come into the Cornels [Colonels] proposal and make the Tryal. I requested to be the last in giving our Votes.—Upon which we parted.
The Enemys approach continues on our left,—their Mortars moved from the left battery into their approaches.—an 18 pounder dismounted in Capt. Ballards Battery on our right.—four of the Enemy’s Gallies that Lay in Wappoo Creek, & came in to Ashly River about every night since 4th. Insta. went down abot. Nine o’Clock this night to their Shipping at Fort Johnston, under a very heavy firing from all our batterys West & So. of the Town.—The Enemy Retreated from Hobcraw across Wappetaw Bridge &ca.
Friday the 21st. 1780. April.
A Flagg sent from us to Genl. Clinton, requiring a Truce for Six Hours, to consider upon Terms of Capitulation (See No. 3)64 which is granted (See No. 4). & afterwards prolonged by Messenger.—The Articles proposed & Sent by Genl. Lincoln were made out by himself and Colo. Ternant, without his General Officers (See No. 5)—but they were called in the Evening to Genl. Lincoln’s Tent, to consider upon Genl. Clinton & Adml. Arbuthnot’s Reply No. 6 which after some hours spent in finding Copy of the Articles we sent out, was unanimously agreed to be a Rejection of the whole, & that a Messenger should be sent out to inform them they might begin firing again when they pleased—which they did immediately abot. Nine at night with greater Virilence & fury than ever, & continued it without intermission till day Light & was returned smartly from the Garrison.
The Enemy open’d two Embrasures against our battery No.4—a twelve pounder dismounted in Redan No.7. the killed & wounded lately are so many they cannot be ascertained.—Colo. Tinning of No. Carol: with his Regmt. of Militia abot. 200 came over from Lampriers, & Joined my Brigade.
Saturday the 22d. April.
Our Ration this day order’d to be reduced to 3/4 lb. of Beef.—Lt. Colo. Laurens with his Lt. Infantry to return from Lampriers to Town & resume his former post—see orders.
The Enemy kept up a heavy Cannonade, & approach fast on our left in front of the advanced Redoubt or half Moon battery.—three men wounded &ca.—they made several Boyaux from their second parralell.
The 23rd. April. Sunday
The Enemys approaches continualy carrying on upon our Right & Left, those on our Right within 20. yds of our dam.—a Mortar moved from the right of Colo. Parkers Encampment.— abot. eight at Night two Deserters from the Enemy.—they confirm the report of a considerable Reinforcement from New York.—that they detached Ten Companys of Light Infantry to go over to Hadrells point.— and say the Enemy lost a Number of Men lately by our Shells.
Monday the 24th.
A party of 200 Men detached from the Virginians & So. Caro: Lines under the Command of Lt. Colo. Henderson Sallyed out at day Light this Morng. opposite the half Moon or advanced Battery, upon the Enemy’s approaches & compleatly Surprised them, in their trenches abot. fifteen of them were killed with the Bayonet in their ditches, & twelve Prisoners brought off.—Seven of whom were wounded. —the Enemy attempted to Support them, but were obliged to retreat upon our giving them some rounds of Grape Shot, the prisoners say Major Hall of the 74th. Regt. Commanded them but no Officer was to be found.—Capt. Moultrie killed, & two privates wounded upon our side in our Retreat.—the whole was done in a few Minutes without our partys firing a Single Gun, & in the greatest order.
It is said Colo. C. C. Pinckney & Lt. Colo. Laurens assured Gen. Lincoln they could (keep the pass of Lampriers open, and) Supply the Garrison with plenty of Beef from Lampriers point upon which the Commissary was ordered to Issue a full allowance again as before the order of 22d. (See orderly B[ook?]) but unfortunately the first, & only Cattle Butchered at Lampriers for the use of the Garrison were altogether Spoiled & useless through Neglect or Mismanagement before they came over.—these Gentlemen are said also to have some days past promised to keep the Communication open on the Cooper River Side, & besides Beef, to send a sufficient Number of Negroes over to Town for the works which were much wanted.—(Kelly’s).
Lt. Colo. Laurens with the Lt. Infantry, & Colo. C. C. Pinckney with the greater part (or almost the whole) of the 1st So. Caro. Regt. came into Garrison this Morning from Lampriers, & ordered into the Horn Work & to Mount the Port Guard.—Major Harris & 75 of his Regt. No. Caro: Militia ordered to Lampriers under the direction of Colo. Malmady, who with Major Hogg is left to Command that post.—& Lt. Colo. Scott with [blank] of the 1st. So. Caro Regm. & abot. [blank] Militia to Command at Fort Moultrie.
Colo. Parker of the Virginians killed abot. eight this Evening by a Rifle Ball looking over the Parapet of the half Moon battery.—two privates killed also & Seven wounded, with several others not known having kept an incessant Fire of Cannon, Mortars & small Arms on both Sides.
Tuesday the 25th. April.
Between twelve & one this Morning a heavy fire of Cannon & Musketry, from our advanced redoubts & the right of our Lines, occasioned (it is said) by the Enemy’s advancing in Collumn.—it is certain they gave several Huzzas, & abused us, calling us bloody Doggs, being upon duty myself & upon the Lines all the Night; but whether they were out of their trenches is not so clear.—it was forty or fifty Minutes before I could put a Stop to the waste of Ammunition untill we could make sure of a proper object.—the Enemy returned the fire Smartly & threw several Light balls & Carcasses into Town.
about two oClock this Afternoon Lord Cornwallis with about 3000 Men took possession of Mount Pleasant, Hadrils Pt. abot. 2 oClock P.M. having crossed from Chs. Town Neck over Cooper River to [blank] last Night. (three men wounded J. H. [John Habersham]).
Wednesday the 26th.
The small Ship Lord George Germaine & a Sloop Joined the Enemy’s fleet near Fort Johnston after passing Fort Moultrie at a great distance with little or no damage.—some of the Enemy’s Ships remain’d below in five fathom hole.—& it was said two of 74. Guns Lay off the Barr.—the Vigilant Capt. Brett at Beaufort.—The Enemy pretty quiet Yesterday and last Night: we suppose they are bringing Cannon into their third Paralel.—they are seen Strengthening their approaches.— and in Possession of Mount Pleasant.
Brigr. Genl. DuPortail arrived from Philadelphia which he left the 3d Insta.—where he says there was no Prospect of our getting any Reinforcement soon from our grand Army.— Congress having only proposed to G. Washington (then at Morristown) the Sending the Maryland Line.
One Man killed,—Capt. Goodwin of 3d. So. Carolina and one private wounded. (J. H.) [John Habersham]
(De Bra:) [Ferdinand de Brahm] the Enemy began their third parralel.
Thursday the 27th.
Last Night Colo. Malmady with his Detachmt. at Lampriers ferry retreated in great confusion across the River, after Spiking up four 18 pounders they left behind.—about one in afternoon four of the Enemy Gallies, and Armed Sloop, & a frigate moved down the River, and Anchor’d opposite, & near the Mouth of Hogg Island, after a very faint opposition from the Cannon of Fort Moultrie.—one of the Galleys got aground & was lost.
5 Militia Men of James Isld. (Capt. Stiles’s) deserted last Night in a boat.—(J. H.) one private killed & five wounded.
Tarr Bbs. ordered to be fixed before our Lines every Evening, & burn all Night to prevent a Surprise, as the Enemy are close to the Cannal, & keep up almost a continued runing fire of small Arms Night & Day upon us.—A pickett of a Field Officer & 100 Men of my Militia Brigade ordered every evening to Gadsdens old House, to Support a small Guard of a Sergt. & 12 Regulars upon the Wharf in case of an attack by the Enemy Boats upon that quarter.—Major Pinckney ordered out on some duty.
Friday the 28th.
Two Deserters from the Enemy at Hobcaw brought over by our Troops.—we See the British flagg flying at our late post Lampriers.—Major Low and Several Supernumery Officers quitted the Garrison over Cooper River.
The Enemy very busy throwing up their third Paralel, within a few yards of our Canal, which in most places is above 100 yards from our breast work.
Our fatigue hard at work enclosing the Horn Work.—the few Negroes remaining in Town are obliged to be pressed daily, & kept under guard, as the masters as well as the Slaves, were unwilling they should work. (J. H.) two privates killed. Lt. Campaign of No. Carolina & two privates wounded.
Saturday the 29th.
The Enemys third Paralel nearly finished, and a Redoubt begun toward the Middle of it. (De Bra:) opposite the Gate & another towards our left (J. H.)
Our hands began a retired Redoubt on the right of the horn work.—General Lincoln informed the General Officers privately that he intended the Horn Work as place of retreat for the whole Army in Case they were drove from the Lines.—I observed to him the impossibility of those who were Station’d at the So. Bay & Ashly River retreating there in Such Case, to which he replyed that we might Secure ourselves as best we could.
A Heavy Bombardment from the Enemy during the Night.—& small Arms never ceasing.—
A Deserter from them, Says, they are preparing a bridge to throw over the Canal.
Capt. Templeton of the 4th Geo. Regt. wounded by Shell.
Tattoo ordered not to beat.
Colo. Malmady ordered to deliver a written report of the Evacuation of Hobcaw, &ca. &ca.
Sunday April the 30th:
General Lincoln received a Letter from Govr. Rutledge upon which he Congratulates the Army in Genl. orders for hearing of a Large Reinforcement that may open our Communication again to the Country, &ca.
The Deserters Yesterday tell us; the Huzzas which Occasioned the firing last Tuesday Morning were from the Enemy’s working party, who thought we were Sallying.— the Engineers he Says ordered them when that happened to give three Cheers, & fall back upon their Covering party.— who not having been apprised of it, received them as an Enemy, in consequence of which a considerable Number of them were killed & Wounded.—he confirms the Account of their receiving a considerable reinforcement from New York, & says the last Detachmt. sent to Hobcaw Amounts to above two thousand, that they expect their Shipping up to Town every Night,—& are preparing a Large Number of faschines to fill up the Cannal.
Severe firing of Cannon, Mortars & Small Arms continued on both Sides.—Lt. Campen & Ensign Hall of No. Caro: wounded badly, & Lt. Philips of the Virginians.—privates killed & wounded not known there are so many.
I think it is this day that Genl. Lincoln called the Genl. Officers together at his Quarters, that Genl. duportail who had viewed our fortifications might give us his opinion respecting them, and the State of the Siege, which was in Substance much the Same as Colo. Lamoy repeatedly expressed before Vizt. that our works could only be called field Lines, & could hold out but very few Days &ca. &ca.—He brought the printed Resolve of Congress respecting me,—which was laid before Council.
Monday the 1st. May 1780.
Our Fatigue imployed errecting another Redoubt on the left of the horn work, & compleating these new works intended for a retreat in Case of Necessity.
The Enemy appear to be about another Battery in their third paralel, opposite No. 12 on our right.—five men deserted last Night, from the Gallie which yet remained in Wappoo Creek.—the many risques they run in the attempt is astonishing.—A very Smart Bombardmt. kept up during this day.
Capt. Mumford of No. Caro: wounded by a Muskt. ball.— and Mr. P. Lord a Voluntier killed yesterday by a Shell.
Tuesday the 2d. May.
Last Night the Enemy made a ditch on the right to drain our Cannal.
A Number of Men killed & wounded the last three or four days, which cannot be ascertained.
A General Monthly Return ordered to be made, with Accot. of the killed wounded & Deserted since 1st. Aprl;
A nine pounder burst in battery No. 12,—and a quantity of fixed Ammunition blown up by accident in batterys No. 10 & 12.
It is said the Enemy throw Shells at us Charged with Rice & Sugar.
Lt. Colo. Smith of Town Militia with a party to press Negroes for the works—if possible.
Wednesday the 3d.
Cannonading, Bombarding & continual firing wth. small Arms as Usual on both Sides.
Our fatigue imployed fetching Picketts &ca.
Thursday the 4th.
Lt. Gerrard wounded.
Our Rations reduced to 6 oz. of Meat, & bad enough.— Coffee & Sugar allowed the Soldiers with their Rice.
the Enemy appear to have possession of our battery on the end of Gadsden’s Bridge Leading to Fort Moultrie. Fire from the Enemy’s Cannon Slack but they do not spare shells & small Arms.—our Hospital Ship carryed away.
From Colo. Bernard Beekman’s Notes.65
On or Abot. the 12th. February 1780, Gen. Lincoln called Br. Genl. Moultrie, and Colonels C. C. Pinckney, Heath, Lamoy, Malmady, Beekman, to a Council at his quarters;—informed them the British Troops Landed in different parts of this State to the So. ward, & were said to be marching to Charlestown.—laid several Returns before them, giving the Number of Continl. Troops now in the State, the Number he expected, & the Prospect he had of being Joined by the Militia of this State & No. Carolina.—the General also informed the Council he had ordered Colo. Parker with his Command down from Augusta, and then put this Question.
Do you think it expedient that all, or any part of our Army go out to Meet the Enemy, & attack them, as we may have opportunity on their March to Town?
Answered in the Negative, by all, but Colo. Malmady.
It was then Resolved, that all the Continental Troops should be immediately called to Charlestown, & its vicinage except the Horse & two Light Companys of Foot, who were to Harrass the Enemy on their March as occasion offered.
15th. Feby. 1780.
A Majors Command, with a party of the Charlesto. Artillery & one field Piece, ordered to take post near Ashley Ferry.
24th. Feby.
The Command near Ashley ferry reinforced to a Lt. Colo. 4 Captains, 4 Subs. 8 Sergts. 8 Corps. & 150 privates;— the Artillery as before Vizt: 1 Sergt. & 7 Men.
Genl. Lillington of No. Carolina with his Militia came to Charlesto. about this time.
Collo. Lytle says, he came himself with two of the No. Caro: Militia Regts. abot. a fortnight before Genl. Lillington, and the General brought the two other Regiments.—made 4 in all.
The 9th. of March 1780.
Captains Mathews, Wilson & Mitchels Companys of Militia ordered to Fort Moultrie.
“From Major H[abersha]m’s Journal of the Siege.”
He begins the 28th. March 1780, & Says—
This Day the Enemy crossed Ashley River in force above the Ferry.
Wednesday the 29th. March.
The Enemy advanced on the Neck.—the Light Infantry were this Evening reinforced with two Companys, & the Command of the whole given to Lt. Colo. Laurens.
Thursday the 30th. March.
The Enemy came on as far as Gibbes’s, where they continued Skirmishing throughout the Day with our Lt. Infantry, who were reinforced in the Evening with two field pieces & Ninety Men.
Our party retired into Garrison abot. dark.—killed Capt. Bowman of No. Carolina—wounded Major Hyrne & seven privates.—The Enemy were all this day transporting Troops from old posts on Wappoo Neck to Gibbes’s.
Friday the [31st March.]
The Garrison [busily employed throwing up works.— Mounting Cannon etc. all Day].
Satu[rday the 1st April.]
Our Troops [employed as yesterday]
Sunday the 2d. April 1780.
Last Night the Enemy broke ground, and this morning appeared two Redoubts.—one nearly opposite our Nine Gun Battery, on the right of the Horne Work, & another a little to the Left of the Same at about 1200. Yards distance from our Lines.
Monday the 3d.
The Enemy employed in compleating their two Redoubts, and errecting another on the Left, nearly opposite Battery No. 4.—at about an equal distance with the rest.
Tuesday the 4th.
Several Deserters within the past three or four days, who say the Enemy, on Thursday last, had upwards of twenty Men killed and wounded: among the Latter was a Lt. Colonel of the 60th. Regt.—Lord St. Clair badly: & that they are bringing their heavy Cannon on the Neck. Since the appearance of the Enemy’s Works, they have been Cannonaded. —two Ten Inch, and [one Seven Inch] Mortars were removed from the [Bay to play upon them].
Wednesday the 5th. April 1780.
Last Night the Enemy continued their Approaches to Hamstead Hill, on which they errected a Battery for twelve Cannon, & a Mortar battery a Little in the Rear.—The Cannon & Mortars of the Garrison employed as usual in annoying their Works.—the Batterys on Wappoo Neck & the Gallies Cannonaded the Town all last night.—by which one of the Inhabitants was Killed in Kingstreet, and two Horses at Genl. McIntosh’s quarters.
Thursday the 6th.
The Enemy approached from their centre Redoubt & errected a five Gun battery, on the Angle between Batterys No. 11 & 12.—The Virginians under Brigr. General Woodford got in by the way of Addison’s ferry, & some Militia of No. Carolina under Colo. Harrington.
Friday the 7th.
This afternoon twelve sail of the Enemys Shipping passed Fort Moultrie, under a very heavy Cannonade: one of them supposed to be a Store Ship, having met with some accident ran aground in the Cove, where she was blown up by her own people. The remainder consisting of one fifty, and two forty four gun Ships, four frigates, two Ships supposed to be Transports a Schooner & a Sloop, Anchored under Fort Johnston.
Saturday the 8th.
The Enemy employed in finishing their Batterys on our right.
Sunday the 9th.
The Enemy Last night continued their approaches from their Redoubt on our Left, and threw up a battery for Ten Cannon against the Angle of our advanced redoubt, and the Redan No.7.— Some Shot were throw’n at the Shipping by our Batterys on the Bay, without effect.
Monday the 10th. April.
Sr. Henry Clinton & Admiral Arbuthnot summon’d the Town to surrender, in the following terms Vizt.
Here follows the Summons [omitted].—and General Lincoln’s Answer to it [omitted]. Verbatim, to which be reffered.
Tuesday & Wednesday the 11th & 12th.
The Enemy busy in compleating their Works, and [mounting their Cannon].
Thursday the 13th. April 1780.
Between Nine & Ten this Morning, the Enemy opened all their Gun & Mortar Batterys, and continued a furious Cannonade & Bombardment with short intermissions untill Midnight the Gallies & Batterys on Wappoo Neck firing also.—One Embrasure at Redan No.7 destroyed, a Sergt. & private of No. Carolina killed.—a twenty six pounder destroy’d and an eighteen pounder dismounted in the flanking battery on the right.—some Women and Children killed in Town.—The Enemys Cannon are chiefly twenty four pounders, and their Mortars from 5 1/2. to 10. Inches.
They threw Carcasses from Ten Inch Mortars by which two Houses near Genl. Moultrie’s were burned.
Friday the 14th. &ca. &ca.
[End of McIntosh’s copy of Major Habersham’s Journal].
Subaltern’s Journal.
[First six pages are so badly mutilitated they are illegible].
20th [April]
The enemy [words torn off] by Capt. Alex. [words torn off] few men woun[ded] [words torn off] Generals and [words torn off] horses—who rep[ort] that they were at the distance of eighteen Miles from the post near Wappetaw bridge, which they had cut down, & Seem’d preprar’d for marching.” that they had cut down many trees in the road to prevent a pursuit.
The General early this day sent for the attend [words torn off] Charlestown. [Remainder of entry mutilated].
21st.
A Cessation of hostilities this day—flags passing to and from the enemy. The subject not known by us subalterns but Strongly suspected to be terms, for a Capitulation.
The Parties that had been sent from the post at Lampriers [words torn off] few negroes [words torn off] hundred Cattle [words torn off].
At a [words torn off] —putation it was allow’d that thirty Cattle per day Would afford the Garrison of Charlestown at least half allowance of fresh beef the other half to be Serv’d in Salt provision.
Colo. Malmady who commanded at the posts, the General being in town at Council order’d the whole to be slaughter’d and sent to town. By the negligence [words torn off] [pe]ople who [words torn off] to super—[words torn off] Commissaries & [words torn off] the whole were render’d useless. They being so utterly Spoil’d when they arriv’d at the Garrison, as not to be eat.
The Occasion of the truce this day was an Offer to the enemy of the town upon honorable terms. The General Officers being acquainted that the Magazines of provisions were nearly exhausted. The terms f[or capitulation] were rejected [words torn off] And none ot[her were] Offered by us. [Hos]tilities Commenc’d this night, an incessant fire being kept up on each side.
Our prospect of success in the defence entirely depended on the hopes of part of the Northern Army and Militia falling on the enemies rear and obliging them to raise the siege. And our own perseverance which was flatter’d by the Commandant [words torn off] and that [words torn off] Infantry. They [words torn off] effectually to keep open the communication between the town and Country, and to supply the Garrison with fresh provision, and Negroes to assist at the additions to be made to our imperfect fortifications.
It will be necessary in this place to take some notice of the behaviour of the generality of the inhabitants [words torn off] part of the [words torn off] was some shew [words torn off] them of turning out Militia to guard small posts and landings which might be attempted by the Enemy. The appearance of performing this service was preserved while no real danger was apprehended, and they had an opportunity of living well at the expence of the Country.
When the Enemy approached [words torn off] duty, openly [words torn off] Officers. They had no no[tion] of running the risque of being taken in Arms, and that it was much more safe and prudent to meet them at their own houses where they would procure protections from the Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Webster.
This loyal resolution they literally executed & Supplied the enemy with every thing they could afford, and piloted [words torn off] places as the [words torn off] were occupied [words torn off] small parties which they intended to surprise.
Such of the Militia Officers as had more Virtue than the privates returned to the post at Lamprie’s recounting this shameful revolt.
Had this happen’d in any other State the Offenders might possibly have been brought to punishment & obedience—but the General [words torn off] which prevaild [words torn off] where, prevented it. The Weakness of our Garrison, and the Strength of the enemy’s force which lay before it render’d us unable to be Masters of the adjacent Country and oblig’d us to keep close within our own Works.
22d of [April]
Sent for by [words torn off] come to town w[ith our] baggage.
Arriv’d in the evening Heavy firing from both Sides. The approaches towards our Works carried on briskly by the enemy. Much execution done by their Shells—which were thrown upon every part of our lines. The Number Wounded and Kill’d difficult to be ascertain’d. From the 21st it was allow’d there were fifteen lost each day from the Continentals [words torn off] known which happened [words torn off] the Militia, who were posted on the bay and only expos’d to the fire of the shipping.
Alarm this night. the enemy approaching to our gate & appearing in Column as if intending a Storm.
An heavy Cannonade from our lines. The Soldiers on the right beginning to fire, it ran through the ranks and for a few minutes one continued roar from the Cannon & Small Arms.
The Enemy [words torn off] fire ceas’d.
Sergeant Lej—[torn off] of Parkers kill’d by a shell this day.
24th.
At day break Lt. Colo. Henderson, Majr. Stephenson & two hundred men from Genl. Woodfords & Scotts Brigades made a Sortie on the Enemy in the trenches. The assault was conducted with Conduct & Success. Our Men attacked with the Bayonet killd about twenty wounded near as many, and took twelve Prisoners.
The Enemy were discovered this night working near our half moon Battery. Col. Richard Parker having reconoitred them return’d to the Battery to direct the fire. When the Yagres sending a platoon of rifles into the Embrasure [words torn off] shot the Colo. through [words torn off] he died immediately [H]is Character is so well known, it need not to be said, how much he is regretted.
Capt. Moultrie killd at the Sortie.
Lampries ferry evacuated by Col. Malmady—retreat disorderly. lost Lieut. Worsham of Russells regimt. and twenty privates of the Virginia line, who were left as a party to cover the embarkation of the rest. He and the party taken Coming down the River.
Pinkney’s Regt. which were Stationed at Fort Moultrie call’d to the Garrison. Three Companies of [blank] being left to defend that post with some Militia.
25th [April]
The Approaches of [words torn off] heavy Cannonading [words torn off] till the Sixth of May, much mischief done daily by the Shells. Lieut. Phillips of Col. Russels regiment killd in the half moon by a shell Mr Peter Lord of the Militia killd at the same time. Circumstances begin now to grow some what alarming—from the allowance of provision being Curtaild, strict search made in the Houses of the Inhabitants for this article some discovered; but inadequate to the supplies necessary. Soldiers notwithstanding the many inconveniences and fatigue they Suffered are in high Spirits.
Capt. Templeton of the Artilery died of the wound he received from a Shell.
5th [May]
Fort Moultrie surrendered to the British Forces—this fort by many people was reckoned impregnable yet the want of provision and the weakness of the Garrison obliged it to surrender, greatest of the regt. which was posted there being ordered to reinforce the Town.
Lt Colo. Scott of South Carolina commanded the fort at the Surrender. terms &ca.
This affair damp’d the Spirits of the Citizens, tho not of the Army. All communication between the City and Country were now cut off and the Garrison and Citizens entirely dependant on there own Stores which were exhausted to a few days shot allowance Some days before this accident Colo. Malmady having no command and being somewhat disagreable to the Garrison in Consequence of the affair at Lampriers was advised to quit the town while there was a probability of a passage.
He set out in a boat accompanied by Edward Rutledge Esqr. late a member of Congress & who had served till this time of the seige with reputation as Captain in Charles Town Artilery there were also two men of suspected Characters.
They were taken by the Enemy upon landing Malmady attempted to escape; meeting with a Negro he desired him to pilot him clear of the British Camp.
The negro intending to do the enemy a favor conducted him close to their lines which Malmady perceiving drew on him and cut him several times. The Negroe closed with him and drawing a knife wounded him so [severely] we hear he is since died. The average of the killed each day amounted to fifteen by shells, shot &ca.
6th [May]
This day Sir Henry Clinton sent proposals of surrender to us begining with a preamble that it proceeded from his humanity and desire to spare the effusion of human blood Counsel of Genl. and field officers call’d. Governor and Council also to be consulted.
7th [May]
Negociations continued—Various conjectures concerning the acception or rejection of our proposals
8th [May]
Truce continued till 8 oClock in the evening. our proposals were rejected and hostilities commenced at the time above mentioned
Although it was [words torn off] subsistence of the Garrison must depend entirely upon what rice was conceald in Town by the Inhabitants for private [use] and this quantity known to be but small.
Yet some persons were clear for opposition, and insisted upon such Terms as they were certain would not be complied with, yet ignorant of the most distant means of Succour or resource.
These people consisting chiefly of those who were possessed of property in the Town joind only by two Continental land and one Naval officer outweighed the Counsil—and renew’d the fire.
The Cannonade opened with three Cheers on each side and continued without intermission the whole night.
[9th May]
Hostilities continued, orders for the purchasing Commissary to seize every steer and cow in the town for the use of the Garrison—Warm fire from the Enemy this day—there approaches are now so near as to do certain execution with their Musquetry above twenty men killed this day. Soldiers more active than the Commissary, drive the Cattle into the range of the Shells where some are kill’d which they soon divide an agreable repast after some days want of meat since the approaches of the enemy became so alarming. Tarr barrels were light every night near the Abbatis in order to discover there advances should they attempt to Storm. Ensign [name missing] one of those receiving a wound through the body of which he died next day. Whispered this night that the Inhabitants of the Town (Militia) were framing a petition to Genl. Lincoln begging of him to accept the terms offer’d by Genl. Clinton—at the same time many of them refusing to do further duty.
The Allowance of Provision consisted now of a little Coffee sugar and rice.
10th
Militia abandon the lines and cannot be prevail’d upon to Join. Cannon entirely deserted two pieces in the half moon dismounted and one unfit for use. This Battery unable to make [words missing] circumstances alarming. Capt. Valentine Peyton firing a Cannon which was deserted and in front of which the enemy were working uncovered Shot through the Headdied almost immediately much lamented. Adjutant Ferrell killd by a shell. at four oClock this afternoon a flag was sent from us to desire a negociation with the enemy. The Militia were now convinced they were deceived in their conjectures of the Quantity of provision and other Stores and sincerely desired the acceptation of Terms
Negociations continued the Soldiers not served with provision. people of the Town flock to the Lines. The Butcher who destroyed the meat at Lampriers being somewhat insolent at Hopkin’s Regiment was very roughly handled.
Hungry guts in the Garrison.
12th
Capitulation agreed on. Detachment of Grenadiers takes possession of the Horn Work at three o’Clock our troops march out and pile there Arms, they return and are dismissed to their Tents. The enemies Guard take possession of the Town.
13th
At twelve this day ordered from the Lines—the Officers to empty houses and the Soldiers to the Barracks.
By the [terms] of Capitulation we understand that the Officers were to wear their Swords, yet the enemy affirm that although it was allowed us to retain, yet we should not wear them—and insist that this was the true Spirit of the Article. we were obliged to lay them down—that is, keep them out of sight. no provision this day.
14th
This day pass’d disagreeably—ordered to attend for paroles at different times, when there always was something to prevent there being fill’d. Officers and men of the Continental line ordered to parade at the Barracks at twelve this day to be reviewed by Genl. Leslie or an Officer appointed by him the above order postponed untill Tomorrow Morning.
15th
Troops paraded according to order this day. Genl. Leslie attended. The Enemy very much surprised at the smallness of our Numbers. While the men were on the parade at the Barracks the Arsenal where we used to keep our fixed Ammunition where our Arms and the pistols & Swords of the Militia were deposited this day by the enemy was blown up accidently—as near as we can learn two hundred lives were lost—one half the enemies Guard and Artilery with three officers—the other Inhabitants who resided near. the Lunaticks and negroes who were chained in Goal for trifling Misdemeanours. Some un [thin] king men of the enemy imagined it was perpertrated by our party but the more Sensible are certain it was occasioned by the firing of one of the Guns which they were laying in the Store as most of our Soldiers Guns when delivered were loaded—and one had fir’d in the same place Yesterday by being so roughly handled in a removal.
Contiguous to the Arsenal there was a Magazine which contained thirty thousand wt. of Powder which it was expected would take fire. The Inhabitants were much alarmed and both they and the British who were quartered at the end of the Town removed their effects—during this Confusion which this fire Occasioned both [words missing] who were on parade were Strongly guarded by a detachment of Hessians. however when the danger abated & peace was restored Genl. Leslie returnd, made some apology for our Detention from our quarters & we as prisoners were glad to be released.
During the confusion the british much alarm’d, Patrolls in the Streets till the fire was extinguish’d their whole Garrison under Arms.
16th
Genl. field Commissioned & other officers ordered to attend for their paroles, but put off till Tomorrow
Officers almost tir[e]d with attendance.
[End of Journal]