Major General Charles Lee to George Washington

27 June 1778

On 27 June 1778, Maj. Gen. Charles Lee sent the following letter to General Washington. On that day Lee had taken over command of troops near English Town, New Jersey, from General Lafayette. Lee was instructed by Washington to attack the rear of the British troops when the British moved from their position at Monmouth Courthouse. In this letter, Lee relates the placement of his troops. The next day would bring the Battle of Monmouth and in Lee's next letter to Washington he would complain of a perceived slight from words spoken by the General during the day's fighting.

Near English Town June the 27th 7 o clock

Dr General--

I did not receive your order to halt until the head of the Detachment was within a mile of English Town Creek--I immediately halted on the receipt--indeed it was not my intention to proceed further than the first brook or water--I have taken a tolerable strong Post in the wood where I shall wait for further orders. unless the expediency of making some movement is so forcible as to oblige me--the enemy certainly lay at Monmouth last night at least the rear of 'em; but whether They mov'd or no this morning is uncertain--The People here are inconceivably stupid. I have sent two lively young footmen (for they have no horses) to reconnoitre. I am, Dr Sir, Yours--

C Lee

P.S. I wish your Excellcy woud order me some axes--a little spirits for the men and two or three (if they can be spared) active well mounted light Horsemen.

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