Major General Charles Lee to George Washington

30 June 1778

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Maj. Gen. Charles Lee ordered the retreat of his troops from an engagement with British forces on 28 June 1778, thereby precipitating a much larger battle with the British than was originally intended by the orders under which he was acting. Lee was rebuked in person by Washington on the day of the battle, and again in a letter from Washington on 30 June 1778. Lee protested that his actions had been justified, and demanded in letters to Washington that he have the chance to justify his actions (see Lee's letters of 28 June and 30 June). Soon after writing the latter note to Washington, Lee wrote again, updating his request by asking that a court martial be called as soon as possible in order that he be able to justify his actions right away.

Camp June 30th 1778

Sir

Since I had the honour of addressing my letter by Col. Fitzgerald to your Excellency I have reflected on both your situation and mine, and beg leave to observe,that it will be for our mutual convenience, that a court of inquiry should be immediately ordered--but I could wish it might be a court martial--for if the affair is drawn into length it may be difficult to collect the necessary evidences, and perhaps might bring on a paper war betwixt the adherents to both parties which may occasion some disagreeable feuds on the Continent--for all are not my friends nor all your admirers--I must intreat therefore from your love of justice that you will immediately exhibit your charge--and that on the first halt, I may be brought to a tryal--and am Sir your most obt. hble servt.

Charles Lee

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