Wayne, Anthony, 1745-1796 to Abraham Robinson

Wayne writes just as the British are approaching Fort Ticonderoga for an attack. "I have just time to inform you that the Enemy are approaching - the shattered remains of our fleet arrived last night." Eleven of the sixteen ships were lost, as well as two hundred men. "The whole body of the Enemy are now within two hours march of us - and we expect to see them every moment." He promises that "the contest will be warn and bloody - they out number us - but if we are too die - we are enough - and if to conquer the few men the greater than of Honor." Says he is sending Robinson's brother away, across Lake George, because he is unwell and unfit for the coming battle. "Whilst I am writing the Sentinels anounce the Enemies approach - I must mount my horse and advance to attack them - Remember me to Sister Sally...take care of my helpless family - & farewell my dear friend and brother - perhaps forever." Written just after the American fleets defeat on Lake Champlain. Though Wayne did engage the British under Sir Guy Carleton, no direct attack was made on the fort until later in the war. Letter written at Fort Ticonderoga.