Camp at the Crossroads August 14- 1777 Sir Yours of the 8th of this instant I have receivd - you are much mistakeen respecting the destination of Sir William being known, before yours reach't me- I am totally ignorant yes this Manocuure of General Howes is so strange and unaccountable that it exceeds all conjecture General Burgonye's rapid marches into the country is a strong proof to me that he expects to be supported from some other quarter. This leads me to conclude that General Howes designs are ultimately against New England. notwithstanding his excentricly movements. I am glad to hear you are so well prepard to defend the [struck: highlands] Hylands. Hear the obstructions in the River will scarcely sufficient to check the Enemies progress with their ships [strikeout] [2] O Your observations are very just respecting General Schuyler if he has lost the confidence of the people his talents will be useless. The Congress were made sensible of that and have appointed Major General Gates to the command. I hope he will succeed better- I think it an object of the first importance to give a check to Burgoyne and the very plan which you mention has often been proposd both with respect to Burgoyne & New York. Philadelphia is the American Diana he must be preserved at all events. There is great attention paid to this City- it is true it is one of the first upon the continent but in my opinion is an object of far less importance than the North river- Our position in the Jerseys was calculated to cover the North River & Philadelphia and afford protection to the State of New Jers[inserted: y] but the cry was to great for the salvation of Philadelphia- that the General was prevailed into leave Coryells ferry [3] contrary to his Judgement and march down to the City and I expect to have out labour for our pains- We are now within about twenty miles of the City waiting to get better information. there has been several expresses from [Scnepax] in an inlet about halfway between the Capes of Delaware and Chesapeake Bay, who confidently assert the fleet have been seen off there for several days- but I cannot credit it. I shall mention to the General the Rhode Island troops are without commissions and als the detachment that is detaind at Rhode Island. contrary to your Orders. - I am Sir your most obedient & very humble Servt N Greene [docket] Gen.l Greens Letter Dated 14.th Augst 1777 Genl Washington for ced into the Write- ment to cure Phi lade [espionage] inst his Judgment Philadia the Ame Rican Diana & ca Burgoynes Movements Schuyler superceded [address leaf] To General Varnum Peeks Kill [free frank] N Greene