Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) to Richard Howley
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06278 Author/Creator: Gates, Horatio (1728-1806) Place Written: Berkeley County, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 February 1781 Pagination: 4 p. ; 25.4 x 20.3 cm. Order a Copy
General Gates encloses a letter from Virginia Governor Thomas Jefferson (not included). Discusses Lord Cornwallis's advance into Virginia, arguing against those who think the action rash because of the support Cornwallis may have from General William Phillips in North Carolina and Benedict Arnold "in his front." Asserts the possibility of Cornwallis defeating General Nathanael Greene and making a cooperative maneuver with General Henry Clinton before the Continental Army is recruited and equipped. Comments on his desire for additional news and to travel to Philadelphia. Also discusses the policies of France, Spain, and England.
Richard Howley served as the governor of Georgia in 1780 and as a member of the Continental Congress in 1780 and 1781.
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