Seymour, Thomas (fl. 1777) to unknown
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04495 Author/Creator: Seymour, Thomas (fl. 1777) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: circa October 1777 Pagination: 2 p. ; 34.1 x 20.4 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Seymour as Lieutenant Colonel of Cavalry under General Horatio Gates to an unknown recipient. Writes in a jubilant tone about American victory over General John Burgoyne's army at Saratoga. Says the British and Hessian troops surrendered as prisoners of war. Claims Burgoyne's previous taunts against the Americans were "so great that he will live but a little time, to hear his proclamations & manifestos retorted upon him." Believes Sir Henry Clinton's army that was moving from New York toward Burgoyne will now retreat southward. Says Gates will soon take possession of Fort Ticonderoga again. Says he might go to Congress with Gates. Relays that part of the terms of surrender is that Burgoyne's troops are to be transported back to England after being marched to Boston. They are not supposed to fight until formal exchanges are made. Claims there are 3,500 prisoners.
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