Chapter XI: Part 11

_Anna_, niece of Robert Townsend and daughter of Solomon,
married Effingham Lawrence, one-time first judge of the County
of Queens. He was a son of Phebe Townsend, of Orange County,
who in 1764 married Joseph Lawrence. His grandfather, Richard
Lawrence, born in 1691, married Hannah Bowne, daughter of
Samuel Bowne, and granddaughter of John Bowne, of Flushing, and
his great-grandfather was Joseph Lawrence, who in 1690 married
Mary Townley and inherited from his mother a large estate at
Flushing and Little Neck. His great-great-grandfather was
William Lawrence, who married Elizabeth, daughter of Richard
“Bull” Smith, patentee of Smithtown. The town of Elizabeth, New
Jersey, was so named in honor of this lady. Anna (Townsend)
Lawrence had eight children: Townsend, Lydia, Henry, William,
Effingham, Robert, Mary, and Edward. She died October 11, 1845.

* * * * *

_Mary_, niece of Robert Townsend and daughter of Solomon,
married Edward Holland Nicoll, son of Henry and Elizabeth
(Woodhull) Nicoll, and grandson of General Nathaniel Woodhull.
She was born in 1789 and died in 1849. Her children were:
Henry, born October 23, 1812, and died November 28, 1879; he
married Anna Townsend Thorne, daughter of James and Phebe
(Townsend) Thorne; Solomon Townsend Nicoll, born November 13,
1813, and died December 23, 1865; Edward Holland Nicoll, born
December 25, 1815, died January 26, 1820. Solomon Townsend
Nicoll, above, married Charlotte, daughter of Samuel Benjamin
Nicoll, of Shelter Island. Their children were Annie, DeLancey,
Benjamin, Mary Townsend, Edward Holland, and Charlotte.
DeLancey Nicoll above, the well-known lawyer of New York City,
is therefore a grandson of Robert Townsend’s niece.

* * * * *

_Phebe_, niece of Robert Townsend and daughter of Solomon,
married James Thorne, of Albany. They had children: Sarah,
Anna, Robert, Mary, Edward, John, James, and Martha.

* * * * *

_Samuel_ and _Jacob_ died unmarried.

* * * * *

_Peter S. Townsend_, nephew of Robert Townsend and son of
Solomon, died March 26, 1849. His activities would fill a
volume and are worthy of careful preservation.

* * * * *

_Solomon_, nephew of Robert Townsend and son of Solomon, was
born October 8, 1805, and died April 2, 1880. He resided at
“Raynham Hall,” Oyster Bay, married Helene, daughter of Dr.
Charles Townsend, of Albany, and had six children: Solomon,
Charles, Robert, Maurice, Edward, and Maria.

(129) _S. Culper urges Howell’s imprisonment._

“729 462 ei 1780

“_Sir._ Your favour of the k Instant hath been duly received,
and observe the contents. I am pleased with your intention
of apprehending Aiqlai Bqyim. Pray be active and vigilent
to secure our Country. No man’s character stands in better
light with the Enemy and hath been a particular friend of
Tryon’s. And whilst resided at his native town held a constant
correspondence with Tryon & Coll. Burch. He never faild in his
request for favors when asked for. Could obtain permission for
five hundred pounds worth of goods at one time, when others
could not for fifty. You may rest assured that B. & J. Nwcluqp
are his bosom friends and know his heart. Not long since, B.
Nwcluqp told me he was very uneasy about him. Said he had
been expected back for some time, asked me if I had not heard
nothing about him and desired if possible to enquire after him.
Said this was the second time he had been out in the service of
Government and was afraid he would be found out. He is largely
in debt at 727 and his departure appeared like one fleeing for
refuge but it was all to cloak his villany. Arnolds affair hath
now become an old story, I am sorry for the death of Major
André but better so than to lose the post. He was seeking your
ruin. C. Junr. is now with me and shall refer you to his letter
for intelligence. I was in hopes you might have come and seen
him. I have enclosed you receipt for fifteen Guineas. The other
five pieces were too light and could not be of any service to
me, two of which were Quarter Joes, and have sent them back
again.

“S. CULPER.”

(130) _Bad money is returned to Washington._

“PINE BRIDGE, Oct. 17th, ’80

“_Sir._ I have this moment recd. the enclosed from the C. .s.
As circumstances have since turned out I wish I had met C.
Junr. as mentioned in my last to Your Excellency.

“C. has returned me five of the Guineas which I recd. of your
Excellency at Tappan, for reasons which are mentioned in his
enclosed letter. I will forward them to Hd. Qrs. or otherwise
dispose of them as I may be directed.

“With respect to the person mentioned in C. Senior’s letter, I
really believe he is a very dangerous man among us, and from
the charges adduced against him by C. should suppose he ought
to be apprehended. I am informed he has lately been to Rhode
Island; his business may be guessed at. The person mentioned in
C. Senior’s letter as friends to Aiqlai Bqyim are the brothers
of the person who had a permit from Genl. Parsons to cross
with Lt. Brewster, but has since been prohibited agreeable to
your Excellency’s order through me. I am very confident Genl.
Parsons was much deceived in the man....

“BENJ. TALLMADGE.”

(131) _Woodhull congratulates Tallmadge._

“729 427 fo 1780

“_Dear Sir._ I congratulate you on your success within the
bounds of 729. The burning the forage is agreeable to me
and must hurt the enemy much. It cannot be replaced and was
what I advised 725 to do some time ago but was opposed by a
person of some consequence in this place and so gave up the
matter. In order to continue your success and endeavours I
rode yesterday above sixty miles, and now can inform you
that the 17th Dragoons at Hemstead, about 200 grenadiers at
Newtown, 1000 Hessians at Flushing. Some few at Jamaica, 900
Yeagers and Anspach Germans cantoned from Herrick along the
north side of Hempstead Plains and some to Oyster Bay. About
sixty occupies the fort at the last mentioned place, about 200
consisting of Ludloes. A Major Coldens Volunteers at Lloyd’s
Neck. There about 50 Refugees at and about Tredles farme near
Smiths Town possess a small fort, two field pieces, but are
under no command each man thinks himself equal to their Capt.
Luke, and are disagreeing continually. Good judges say they can
be taken at any time with ease and is thought they will leave
that quarter soon, if they should not be attacked. The woods
afford a cover almost to their works. Last week the enemy lost
a Frigate going through Helgate bound to the fleet at this east
end, and sunk immediately. To serve you I purpose if possible
to ride the circuit of these lines and return on the 20th day
of December, at which time let 725 cross again. Perhaps you may
think the time long but cannot well be sooner. If you should
think proper to send him about the 10th it will be agreeable
and will write you all I can. Perhaps may hear something of
importance, or you may wish to give me some instructions
which is ever agreeable. I have had but a few minutes to write
and please excuse the imperfections you may discover. The
intelligence is the best concerning the enemy and am

“Yours Sincerely,
“SAML. CULPER.”

(132) _Culper Senior pleads for Samuel Townsend._

SETAUKET, Feby. 8th, 1781.

_Sir_, I returned from New York yesterday but have nothing of
much importance to communicate--The English Fleet of Transports
and Merchantmen of about seventy sail left Sandy Hook about the
middle of last week--A private ship arrived from England on
Friday last, with the king’s speech (see the papers enclosed)
and an account of Admiral Darby with thirty four sail of the
line being in sight of the combined fleets consisting of fifty
sail--The Enemies papers gives a large account of Arnold’s
success in Virginia but is not fully believed. Genl. Clinton
is said to be dissatisfied with Arnolds conduct--we have
nothing from the Carolinas or any other quarter worthy of
notice. The prisoners are used very hard, numbers are confined
in the Dungeons, and condemned rooms supported only on bread
and water. In particular one Mr. Saml. Townsend, said to be
one of your Commissary’s, who suffers beyond expression. I
can say but little about the situation of the army. The 17th
Dragoons is at Hempstead, Coll. Ludlow’s Regt. of DeLancey’s
Brigade and the Jersey Volunteers is at Lloyd’s Neck. A very
considerable part of the Yaugers and Anspack Regiments are
cantoned from Oyster Bay to Herricks--Three Battallions of
Hessian Grenadeers are cantoned from Jamaica to Flushing, and
think the 37th Regiment is also at Flushing. All the grenadeers
and infantry are cantoned at Bedford and Newtown--the 17th
of Foot is at Flatbush. There’s one Battallion of Hessian
Grenadeers on York Island near Kings Bridge which is all I
can say with any certainty. To conclude, the Enemy expect a
large French Fleet in the Spring--and their spirits are very
low--The principal inhabitants that are most obnoxious to you
still continue to offer their property to sale. It appears
to me that we need not doubt of success, and that it is not
far distant--But, nevertheless must urge you to be vigilent
and active. In particular be watchful of the Enemies among
you who are daily forwarding supplies to the Enemy. I could
mention numbers that I know are guilty and many circumstances
that might detect others but am fearful it would lead to a
discovery. At all hazards, I will mention one Robert Bown, of
Shrewsbury in Jersey that I assure you keeps up a connection
with the Refugees and hath frequently had them at his house. I
have given you such information as this repeatedly but could
never hear you made any use of it. It was not long ago that I
declared to you of a certain person being in your lines and
in the Enemy’s service, and but a few days ago he found his
way into New York and waited on the Commander in Chief. It is
now a full year that I have supported this correspondence and
have forwarded frequent dispatches--and the expenses incurred
amounts to one hundred and seven pounds eighteen shillings, and
all I have received is 29 Guineas. The balance is due me and
in want thereof, wish it could be forwarded soon. Agreeable to
your request hope shall soon be able to place a person at 727
as heretofore, and am yours sincerely,

SAML. CULPER.

(133) _Brewster captures boat and crew._

FAIRFIELD, February 14, 1781.

_Sir._ My appointment on the 6th Inst. was frustrated until
the 9th by bad weather, when I crossed and from information
found I would not accomplish my business without endangering
particular persons, as there were numerous crews of Reffugees
scattered in the town, which made it impossible for me to
see the person I wished. I thought it most prudent to return
immediately, and take with me an additional boat when I
crossed again, both for my own safety, and to annoy them if
they fell in my way. On the 12th, at night I crossed again
with three boats, and affected my purpose, and on the morning
following just as we were embarking to return I discovered a
boat rowing from the eastward. I lay concealed till she came
opposite to me when I detached one of my boats in pursuit; she
discovering our strength immediately came on shore and proved
to be a cruising refugee boat carrying eight men, a list of
their names and character I have the honor to enclose to your
Excellency. The interest of my country induces me to inform
your Excellency that there is a constant communication kept up
for trade and intelligence by the enemy boats, bringing over
goods and taking provisions in return, and in such force that
renders it impossible and many times makes it dangerous to
transact my business with my present command. An addition of
one or two boats will make my appointments certain, and when
not on command should be able to keep the coast clear from any
enterprise they would form. I am with Respect your Excellency’s
most Humble Servant,

CALEB BREWSTER.

Joseph Easton Trowbridge, Capt. of the Boat. Henry Gibbs,
Benjamin Prescott: These three are from New Haven and have
been condemned to the mines for illicit trade but broke goal.
James Smith, Capt. of the Kings Militia Volunteers. From the
Block House on Tredwells Banks are Thomas Davis, Thomas Wilson,
Christopher Young, Job Mosier. The above prisoners I have sent
to your Excellency under a Couporal and six men and would wish
your Excellencys directions with the boat, apparel and arms.

CALEB BREWSTER.

(134) _Gen. Parsons wants Brush and Conklin released._

CAMP HIGHLAND, 17 Feb. 1781.

_Dear General._ Last night six prisoners were brought to
the Provost Guard in Fishkill, who belonged to the State of
Connecticut. Three of them viz. Jos Easton Trowbridge, Henry
Gibbs and Benjamin Prescott were sentenced last October to be
confined in Symsbury Mines Eighteen Months. The two former
escaped on their way and joined the enemy. Prescott, a brother
in law to Roger Sherman Esq. made interest through his brother
for a pardon, which he obtained and immediately fled to New
York. One Willson, one of the number, has been guilty of
putting of very large sums of Counterfeit money which I am able
to prove against him but he has had no trial.

Major Brush and Capt. Conklin have been long confined in the
Provost in New York and there appears very little prospect
of their consenting to exchange them unless some characters
of repute with them are given for them--these gentlemen are
persons who deserve the attention of every Friend to his
Country, and I am enclined to believe Smith, who is a Captain
of their Militia and Trowbridge who has a commission for one of
their Whale boats would be acceptable to them: If they may be
offered for these two men, who are confined in a most vigorous
manner and have long suffered in confinement, your Excellency
will relieve the Distress of two numerous families suffering
greatly by the absence of these gentlemen. I am sir, Yr. most
Obedt. Servt.

SAM H. PARSONS.

(135) _Townsend back in New York._

“729 374 the eo 1781.

“_Sir._ Your several favours of the fo of 215 and of the ee
instant have been received and observe the contents. I have
but little to communicate at this time. Genl. Phillips hath
embarked some days ago with all the infantry, the Seventy-Six
Regiment and two German Regiments. The whole said to amount
to sixteen hundred men, generally believed are bound to the
assistance of Arnold. They had not sailed last Thursday and
am of opinion they will not go. They certainly have not a
sufficient convoy. A few days past a small boat arrived from
Arnold in forty eight hours but nothing could be learned from
her. There’s nothing from any other quarter, save Britain
declaring war against the United States of Holland and their
taking St. Estutias and one hundred and sixty sail of ships.
See the papers inclosed. The enemy are very low on the same
account. I think they must make peace shortly. The Memorial
of Prussia mentioned in the News Paper is not thought to
be genuine here. C. Jur. is again in 727 and entering into
business as heretofore and you may soon I hope receive his
dispatches. And remain your very Humbl. Servt.

“SAML CULPER.”

(136) _Woodhull reports a visit from Culper Junior._

SETAUKET, April 23d, 1781.

_Sir._ Inclosed I send you the report of a faithful person that
I employed a few days past to visit the several places therein
mentioned, and think you may place much confidence therein. I
do assure you it’s more than I could possibly do. The number
of men at Lloyd’s Neck is certainly not more than 500 nor less
than 400 fighting men. There’s of the Yagers and Anspach Regt.
about 800 cantoned from Oysterbay to Herrick’s. Sometimes a
picket is at Dosons. I think some of them might be taken. I
have made further enquire about the embarcation under General
Phillips and am assured that better information respecting him
cannot be procured than what have transmitted. The enemy on the
Island to all appearance rest as easy as if they had no enemies
to fear. Hope you may disturb them ere long.

A few days past I had a visit from C. Junr. and am sorry to
inform you that he will not write any more on any account
whatever. And as yet neither of us can think of a suitable
person to establish. Yet nevertheless shall when receive
your determination as proposed further endeavour. If should
fail shall be exceedingly sorry. I can always procure verbal
accounts from C. Junr. and other persons of good observation
similar to the present, but it cannot be done without expense.
A few days past a Spy left Rhode Island and went to New York
in as much haste as perhaps ever any person traveled. Having
nothing further to say at present I remain yours Sincerely,

SAMUEL CULPER.

The person that procured the enclosed knows not the smallest
link in our chain if need should require I mean to employ him
at times knowing him to be capable, and much used to armies and
fortifications.

(137) _Woodhull finds no one will write from New York._

May 8.

_Sir._ Your favor of the 28th of April is before me and observe
the contents. Agreeable to your request I immediately repaired
to New York and have done all that in me lay to engage a proper
person, but have failed as no one will write on any account. I
can only obtain verbal accounts for you and that but seldom,
as the enemy have lately been made to believe that a line of
intelligence is supported here. They are jealous of every
person that they may see from this part. I have received from
you three English and seven French Guineas, the former have
placed to your credit, the latter have returned, they being not
permitted to pass and consequently are of no use to me.

You may now see the following intelligence. The latest accounts
from Europe says that the Dutch have not declared war against
Great Britain, but as one of the neutral powers have referred
their situation to the Congress, sitting at Petersburgh, which
is looked upon here as great wisdom and will soon be productive
of peace. The British when I left New York consisted of 7
ships of the line, 2 of 50 and 4 of 44 Guns, and two or three
smaller Ships, which on their arrival landed 7 or 800 sick
and wounded, and have replaced them again with negroes, boys,
carmen, fishermen--never was so warm a press in America before.
Gentlemen’s servants going to market did not escape. The fleet
have laid down Staten Island, and were to sail yesterday,
supposed to cruise of the Capes of Virginia. The following
regiments have embarked and are under orders for embarcation
and said to be bound to Virginia. Regiment of Anspach, the 43d
and 17th Dragoons and Infantry of the same; the remainder of
the 76th and 80th. The whole Culper Junior says will amount to
2000 men and not more than 4000 will be left in Garrison. It
is a matter of surprise that they will leave the Garrison so
weak and gives reason to believe that some troops are expected
from Europe, or that they are going to make some attack near
at hand. It is reported the French Army are about marching
westward, if they should the enemy will not leave New York on
their expedition. I have directed 725 to cross again on the
tenth inst. I am yours, &c.

SAML. CULPER.

P. S. All hands agree that the Capt. of the Confederacy gave
his ship away. The Crew have all been taken on board the
British Fleet against their will. It is the opinion of some
that ⅓ of the men on board the fleet had rather fight against
them.

(138) _British march troops towards N. Y. then back again._

SETAUKET, May 27th, 1781.

_Sir._ Your favour of the 13th instant hath come to hand, and
note the contents--I have proposed the affair to the person
mentioned in your last but can only send him down at times,
he cannot reside there at present, and cannot procure any
person as yet to do it. Austin Roe hath just returned from New
York but brings nothing material. Pensacola is taken by the
Spaniards and there’s a fleet preparing to sail for Europe,
probably will be ready in about ten days, their said to be
conveyed by five ships of war. The troops were all ordered
to leave Long Island a few days past but before they got to
Brooklyn were ordered to return to their quarters again.
What this maneuver was for cannot say. It is reported that
the second division of French have arrived at Boston. You
desired to know the state of the enemy at Kingsbridge. I have
directed an enquirie. They’re most certainly very weak there.
But I think you cannot surprise them and were you to make any
movement there you may depend they could move their whole force
there in twelve hours. Their regular troops certainly doth not
much exceed four thousand. And I am assured that the Militia
and others that they could muster on an emergency would amount
to five thousand more, some say six.

I have forwarded the papers regular and have expended the ten
guineas. A few days past several men from New Haven were at
Setauket. Two of them were named Thompson and Brother. Further
cannot describe. They brought on Shoes and Flour and other
necessaries of life. There’s a person been to New York this
week, I suppose you are not unacquainted with his errand. Hope
he hath rendered a good account. I am in haste. And remain your
very humble servant,

SAML. CULPER.

General Phillips is dead and General Robinson, commonly called
Jimmy, goes to take the command in Virginia.

(139) _Stephen Smith shoots up Port Jefferson._[71]

SETAUKET, June 4th, 1781.

_Dear Sir._ Your favour of the 23d of May is just come to
hand--together with five Guineas. Austin Roe hath just returned
from New York but brings very little intelligence. He says all
is silence and no kind of movement about to take place. Admiral
Arbuthnot is off Sandy Hook. And the Fleet for Europe mentioned
in my last are in number near one hundred and are about to
sail. The Confederacy is one of their Convoys. Further cannot
say. The Enemy are much alarmed at so large a French Fleet
arriving in the West Indies. See the papers forwarded with the
Magazine. We think here that a peace must shortly take place.

A few days past a number of men commanded by one Stephen Smith
a Deserter from Coll. Ludloe’s Regiment, much abused and
plundered several houses at a place caled Drowned Meadow; broke
their windows, fired into their houses, whipped and threatened
both old and young. The like hath happened on the South Side of
Long Island and eighteen out of forty two, by thirty men under
the command of one Henry Nicol, were made prisoners. We live
in daily fear of death and destruction. This added to my usual
anxiety hath almost unmanned me. I must now (as painful as it
is to me) disappoint your expectations, and out of my power to
avoid if matters were ever so secure on my part which is the
reverse. I dare not visit New York myself and those that have
been employed will serve no longer, through fear. I am fully
persuaded by various circumstances and observation that have
made from time to time, that if it were in my power to continue
it regular without any interval, should shortly be devoted to
ruin, and it appears clear to me that it would be presumption
to take one step further at present--And could not expect that
protection from Heaven that have hitherto enjoyed. You must
acknowledge and readily conclude that have done all that I
could, and stood by you when others have failed, and have not
left you in the darkest hour but when our affairs appear as
clear as the Sun in the Heavens, and promiseth a speedy and
I hope a happy conclusion. Inclosed you have an account of
transports as requested and should be exceedingly happy to see
you. And in the Interum wishing you health and prosperity I
remain your ever mindful and Humble Servant,

SAMUEL CULPER.

(140) _Woodhull explains how Robert Townsend used British uniform._

_Sir._ Your favour was handed me some days past requesting
some information relative to the Enemy. My circumstances would
not admit me to undertake to visit the several quarters of the
Enemy. I therefore dispached one of the usual carriers with the
contents of your letter to our esteemed friends at ---- and
their return is as follows: Lloyd’s Neck is supposed to be in a
weak condition, is commanded by Major Hubbel, their number doth
not exceed two hundred men, without discipline and off their
guard and daily decreasing. They subsist entirely by trading
to your shore. Their protection by water is a Brig, Sloop and
Gaily. At Success one mile or two from Herricks north side of
Hempstead Plains Coll. Murray’s Horse, two Regiments of Yagers
and Anspach in the whole about one thousand men. Encamped near
Brooklyn Church Coll. Ludloe’s Regt. at Flatbush. That’s all
can say with any precision with respect to Long Island. At
York Island they are encamped from the City to the Bridge, and
fortifying on the banks of the River near the City, and it is
expected they will contract their lines and only attempt to
defend a part of York Island near the town if they should be
attacked. They have a number of ships ready to sink in the
River if an Enemy should appear. There’s only two ships of any
consequence in the Harbor, the Lion and Centurion. Their design
appears only to act on the defensive and be as little expense
to the Crown as possible. God grant their time may be short for
we have much reason to fear within their lines that Carleton’s
finger will be heavier than Clinton’s Thigh. He’s called a
Tyrant at New York by the inhabitants in general and makes them
do soldiers duty in the City without distinction. The first
gentlemen in the City stand at Officers doors Soldier like. I
believe the overturne and regulations that he hath made here
was only to promote his favorites, and burden the inhabitants.
I cannot be assured that they have sold any horses belonging
to the Crown as yet, although it hath been reported so here
fifty times. We have no accounts from Europe or West Indies
lately. Many say the troops from Charlestown are expected at
New York and that they have actually left St Augustine and
Georgia. I am sorry to see trade flourish as it doth, Never
was such an intercourse with your shore before. I believe not
one day or scarcely an hour but live stock and produce of all
kinds are landed on Long Island on vessels pushing into the
Enemy’s posts. Capt. William Davidson of Milford is now selling
a cargo at New York. Could mention numbers but forbear. Many
that are called first characters with you are concerned in
it. Most of our friends are encouraging it here and supplying
them with goods. To prevent which I could earnestly advise the
State of New York to issue a proclamation, declaring all within
these lines Enemies to their country who shall procure any
merchandise whatever from New York more than for their families
use. I have not a doubt but something of this kind would do
much service. I am convinced that if some measures are not
taken to prevent it will be of bad consequence and occasion
bloodshed on your shore, which hope may be prevented by some
speedy measures. Wishing you Health and Success I remain your
Humble Servt.

SAMUEL CULPER.

(141) _Tallmadge’s request to be first to officially enter New York._

“GREENFIELD, March 31st, 1783.

“_Sir._ I had the honor to write Your Excellency on the
29th inst. on which day I crossed to Long Island as then
proposed, from whence I have just returned. From every enquiry
& a variety of information, it appears to be reduced to a
certainty that a general peace has been concluded on in Europe,
an authenticated account of which great event I hope Your
Excellency has received before this time.

“I saw several of my old correspondents from New York, who
inform that although official information respecting a Peace
had not yet reached N. Y. yet preparations were making for the
Garrison to be ready to leave that place. They inform that a
considerable number of the Loyalists are about setting off for
Nova Scotia; that the foreign troops are preparing to embark
as they are to sail first if there should not be transports
enough to remove the whole & in that case the British Troops
will remove on to Staten Island. They are in expectation of
Transports from Europe, as they have only about eighty for that
service at New York.

“From the present auspicious appearance of our public affairs
and from a persuasion that the American Troops will soon be in
possession of New York, I have to request that Your Excellency
would be pleased to suffer me, with my detachment, to be among
the first who may go into the City. I have many reasons for
making this early request but the principal argument which I
would offer, and which I am conscious will have due weight in
Your Excellency’s breast, is that particular attention may be
paid to certain Characters in New York, who have served us very
essentially, and who may other ways be treated amiss. It is a
favor which they will by all means expect, and some of them
will not wish to have the nature of their services divulged....

“BENJ. TALLMADGE.”

(142) _VALENTINE From Lieutenant-Colonel J. G. Simcoe to Miss Sarah Townsend; written and delivered at Oyster Bay, L. I. St. Valentine’s day 1779_:--

Fairest Maid where all are fair,
Beauty’s pride and Nature’s care;
To you my heart I must resign;
O choose me for your Valentine!
Love, Mighty God! thou know’st full well,
Where all thy Mother’s graces dwell,
Where they inhabit and combine
To fix thy power with spells divine;
Thou know’st what powerful magick lies
Within the round of Sarah’s eyes,
Or darted thence like lightning fires,
And Heaven’s own joys around inspires;
Thou know’st my heart will always prove
The shrine of pure unchanging love!
Say; awful God! since to thy throne
Two ways that lead are only known--
Here gay Variety presides,
And many a youthful circle guides
Through paths where lilies, roses sweet,
Bloom and decay beneath their feet;
Here constancy with sober mien
Regardless of the flowery Scene
With Myrtle crowned that never fades,
In silence seeks the Cypress Shades,
Or fixed near Contemplation’s cell,
Chief with the Muses loves to dwell,
Leads those who inward feel and burn
And often clasp the abandon’d urn,--
Say, awful God! did’st thou not prove
My heart was formed for Constant love?
Thou saw’st me once on every plain
To Delia pour the artless strain--
Thou wept’sd her death and bad’st me change
My happier days no more to range
O’er hill, o’er dale, in sweet Employ,
Of singing Delia, Nature’s joy;
Thou bad’st me change the pastoral scene
Forget my Crook; with haughty mien
To raise the iron Spear of War,
Victim of Grief and deep Despair:
Say, must I all my joys forego
And still maintain this outward show?
Say, shall this breast that’s pained to feel
Be ever clad in horrid steel?
Nor swell with other joys than those
Of conquest o’er unworthy foes?
Shall no fair maid with equal fire
Awake the flames of soft desire;
My bosom born, for transport, burn
And raise my thoughts from Delia’s urn?
“Fond Youth,” the God of Love replies,
“Your answer take from Sarah’s eyes.”

An incident in the lives of the secret service men is detailed in Major Tallmadge’s letter, dated Greenfield, Feb. 21, 1783, and addressed to General Washington. Major Tallmadge says:

I am happy in having occasion to congratulate your Excellency
on the success which attended a part of my detachment yesterday
in capturing one of the Enemy’s armed Vessels on the Sound.
In my letter of the 20th ulto. I had the honor to inform your
Excellency that an attempt had been made to board one of
the Enemy’s Gallies; since which, for some reason, she has
been hauled up at Huntington and her Crew has left her. The
detection of many boats belonging to this shore, has induced
the enemy to employ their armed vessels in the Trade. Several
loads of fat Beaves have been taken from this shore under cover
of their guns.

About ten days ago I was informed that one of the Enemies
Privateers had landed a large quantity of English Goods near
Stratford, and that she was soon to return and receive a cargo
of Beef. As this vessel was one of the principal cruizers in
the Sound, and had been largely used in trade, I tho’t it
my duty if possible to prevent her doing further mischief,
accordingly a detachment of forty five men from the Light
Infantry of the Legion, under the orders of Lieuts. Rhea and
Hanly, together with Capt. Brewster’s Boat Crew of Continental
Troops, were held ready for service. Yesterday the enemies
vessel was discovered near Stratford Point, where at 2 o’clock
p. m. the troops were embarked in a fast sailing vessel
prepared for that purpose, which was cammanded by Capt. Hubbel,
and at 4 p. m. they came up with her, when she gave a discharge
of her Cannon followed by her Swivles and Musquetry, (our
troops being concealed) till both vessels met, when the troops
rose, gave the Enemy one discharge of Musquetry, and boarded
them with fixed bayonets. The Captain of the Privateer was
killed and only three or four of his men were wounded, two of
them supposed mortally wounded.[72] Tho Capt. Hubbel’s Vessel
was much damaged in her hull, spars and Rigging, yet not a man
on board was killed or wounded. Capt Brewster who Commanded
the Troops, as well as the other officers and soldiers on board
deserve commendation for the spirit and zeal with which their
service has been performed. The Privateer is called the Three
Brothers, was commanded by Capt. Johnstone, mounting eleven
Carriage Guns, four swivels, twenty five stand of small arms
and navigated by twenty one men. The Prize now lies at Black
Rock under a Guard, and we shall be glad of your Excellency’s
order of Condemnation upon her. As there has been a particular
agreement between Captain Hubbell and myself respecting the
proportion of the Prize to be drawn by the Vessel and the
Troops, I shall thank your Excellency to leave the division to
us. The Prisoners who are able to march (except two negroes
left with Capt. Hubbel) are on their way to camp.

I cannot but hope these successful attempts will have good
effects and in some measure answer your Excellency’s wishes to
prevent the Illicit Trade. I have enclosed a Protection from
Admiral Digby taken on board the Prize, which proves that the
same vessel was not long since loaded with Stock in Connecticut
River. I have the Honor to be, With great Regard, Sir, your
Excellency’s most Obedt. Servt.

BENJ. TALLMADGE.

P.S. Previous to the taking of Captain Johnstone, he had
captured one of our boats with a crew of Continental Troops,
who found a happy release. Last friday Col. Thompson’s Corps
left Huntington, and marched Westward. They halted at Jamaica,
but it is conjectured that they are soon to embark for the West
Indies.

B. T.

CALEB BREWSTER

Caleb Brewster at the time of his birth had for near neighbor Samuel Thompson of Setauket, whose son the historian, Benjamin F. Thompson, left a carefully prepared sketch of his life in 1843. In full Thompson says:

“Among those who engaged in defence of their country, against the oppression of a foreign power, few have had as good fortune to be remembered by posterity, or to receive their due share of respect and gratitude. It therefore devolves upon the historian, when opportunity offers, to rescue from oblivion the memory of the virtue and services of those, to whose exertions and sufferings we are indebted for the many privileges we enjoy. Great were the sacrifices of those who aided in the achievement of independence, and the establishment of the happy form of government under which we live. In this array of zeal and suffering, the subject of this notice stands pre-eminent.

“Mr. Brewster was the son of Benjamin, grandson of Daniel, and great grandson of the Rev. Nathaniel Brewster of Setauket, who was the son of Jonathan, and grandson of elder William Brewster of Plymouth, one of those worthies who arrived in the May Flower in December 1620.

“The father of Mr. Brewster was a farmer, and, as was too often the custom of the day, gave his only son a limited education. He was born at Setauket, in 1747, and learned such branches as were taught in the country schools of that period, comprehending little else than reading, writing, and arithmetic. Being naturally of an ardent and enterprising disposition, and anxious to explore beyond the confines of his native town, he chose the life of a sailor; and at the age of nineteen, engaged himself on board a whaling vessel, commanded by Captain Jonathan Worth, bound to the coast of Greenland. His next voyage was to London in a merchant ship, and upon his return, he found his country involved in the Revolutionary contest. His enthusiasm in the cause of liberty did not allow him to hesitate, for a moment, the course which his duty called him to pursue, and he immediately volunteered his services in securing American Independence. He was honored, in a short time, with the commission of lieutenant of artillery, and from that time forward was eminently distinguished for zeal and intrepidity, possessing to the fullest extent the confidence of the officers of the army and that of the commander-in-chief. In short, such was the exalted opinion entertained of his integrity, courage, patriotism, and prudence, that in 1778 he was employed as a confidential and secret agent of Congress; and he devoted himself, through the remainder of the struggle, in procuring and transmitting the most minute, accurate, and important intelligence relative to the movements and intentions of the enemy at different points, and particularly in New York and on Long Island; for which he was uncommonly well qualified, as well by his intimate topographical knowledge of the country, as his acquaintance with the people on both sides the political question, and therefore knew in whom, of either party, he could venture to confide. He was among those who, under Col. Parsons, crossed the Sound to Long Island in 1777, for the purpose of capturing a body of British and tories, which, under Col. Hewlett, had taken possession and garrisoned the Presbyterian church at Setauket. On the 23d of June, 1780, he was appointed captain of artillery, and was frequently engaged with separate gangs of marauders, who sometimes extended their predatory excursions upon the main.

“In November 1780, he was a volunteer with Benajah Strong and Heathcote Muirson, in the expedition under Maj. Tallmadge, to the South side of Long Island, where they surprised and took prisoners a party of British troops encamped upon Smith’s Point at Mastic, and on their return destroyed a large quantity of hay and military stores at Corum. In 1781 he engaged with, and captured an armed boat with her whole crew, in the Sound, which he carried safely into Black Rock Harbor.

“On the 7th of December, 1782, Captain Brewster, with the whaleboats under his command, gave chase to several armed boats of the enemy in the Sound, and after a desperate encounter, in which most of the men on both sides were either killed or wounded, he succeeded in capturing two of the enemy’s boats. This action has generally been denominated, by way of distinction, the boat fight; and at the time was justly considered, in connection with its attendant circumstances, one of the most valorous and extraordinary engagements of that portentious period. It was indeed a truly perilous adventure; yet the contest lasted only twenty minutes, and some of his boats refusing to come up, he was compelled, from his peculiar situation, to engage with the enemy almost single handed. During the short but terriable conflict his shoulder was pierced by a rifle ball, which passed out at his back. His prudence and resolution enabled him to keep this occurrence a profound secret till the enemy surrendered, when he found himself exhausted from the effusion of blood. After reaching the shore, he was confined, under the hands of a surgeon, for some time; for the injury thus received, he was placed upon the pension roll of the army, and continued to receive a gratuity from his country for the remainder of his life. He participated in several other important and hazardous engagements, while attached to the line of the army, the interesting particulars of which it is impossible to ascertain, as none of his compatriots on those occasions are now living. On the 9th of March, 1783, he took command of a sloop at Fairfield, for the purpose of attacking the Fox, a British armed vessel in the Sound; and as soon as he came near, he ordered his men to board her with fixed bayonets, himself leading the way. In less than two minutes, she became their prize. Captain Johnson, of the Fox, and two men, were killed, and several others wounded; while Captain Brewster had not a person injured. This extraordinary exertion on his part was more than his then state of health could endure, and in consequence of which he was confined to his bed for several months. When he recovered, the preliminaries of peace had been exchanged, and his beloved country had assumed her appropriate station among the free nations of the earth. In 1784 he married Anne, daughter of Jonathan Lewis of Fairfield, Connecticut; where he continued afterwards to reside, when not in public service, to the close of life. In 1793 he was commissioned a lieutenant of the revenue cutter for the district of New York; and such was his well known skill and prudence, that on the death of Captain Dennis, soon after, he was appointed her commander, which he retained till 1816, with the exception of three years of Mr. Adam’s administration, to which he was opposed. In that year he retired to his farm at Black Rock, where he departed this life at the age of seventy-nine years, February 13th, 1827. In stature, Captain Brewster was above common size, of fine proportions, a commanding countenance, a constitution athletic and vigorous, and of extraordinary activity. His talent for wit and humor was almost unrivalled, and for relating anecdotes few men could be found more entertaining.

“His excellency Governor Tompkins, Dr. Mitchill, James Fairlie, Esq., and several other gentlemen, accompanied Captain Brewster in a voyage around Long Island, in September, 1809; and so highly gratified were they all with his polite attention to their comfort, that it was resolved to present him a silver cup as a token of their obligation and regard. The fort at Staten Island, where most of the gentlemen were present, was the spot chosen for delivering the cup, on which occasion Dr. Mitchill made an address in his usual able manner, and was happily responded to by Captain Brewster. On the subject of his military services, Mr. Knox, former secretary of war, on the petition of Captain Brewster, reported to the House of Representatives, the 21st of June, 1790, that ‘he was a lieutenant of artillery during the war, and was confidentially employed in an armed boat by the commander-in-chief, to keep open the communication between Connecticut and Long Island, for the purpose of obtaining intelligence. That he performed this ardous and hazardous service with fidelity, judgment and bravery, and to the entire approbation of General Washington, appears by his letters written to Captain Brewster, as well as his certificate, bearing date June 10, 1784.’

“By the zeal and activity which he manifested in this employment, he became, as a matter of course, a peculiar object of the enemy’s hate, who made many attempts, and in various ways, to take or destroy him. He, and those under his command, in the month of Dec., 1782, behaved with the highest gallantry, in an engagement with the enemy’s armed boats, the largest of which he captured, after an obstinate resistance, in which perilous action he was dangerously wounded, and was carried to Connecticut, at a distance from any hospital, where he languished for a long time under the pain of his wounds, from which he finally recovered.

“His widow survived her husband several years, and died in 1835, leaving a number of children, one of whom, Sturges Brewster, Esq., has been for many years attached to the New York Custom House.”

FOOTNOTES to “NOTES AND AMPLIFICATION”:

[66] Abraham Woodhull loaned money to the State, upon their request. See _New York in the Revolution_, vol. 2, p. 196.

[67] The east end of Long Island will always remember Ebenezer Dayton as the man who gave them the measles. He became known as a daring privateer during the early days of the Revolution, but, not satisfied to obey the rules of war, he made excursions on land that amounted to robbery. In retaliation the Tories crossed to his store in Connecticut and robbed him of £450 in gold and destroyed most of his effects. After the Revolution he became a peddler, and upon this particular occasion visited East Hampton with fancy goods for sale, arriving Saturday evening. On Sunday, although having symptoms of the measles, and against the advice of the hostess who had entertained him, he persisted in attending Church service, thereby notifying the public of his presence. News of his indiscretion was spread over the town and the indignation of the people was so obvious that he left in the early morning following. He was pursued by a few young men, overtaken, brought back to the village, ridden on a rail through the streets, ducked in the town pond, and submitted to other indignities. Nearly one hundred took the measles, and several died. Colonel Aaron Burr, then a young aspiring lawyer, advocated the suit of the peddler, and under his powerful presentation the jury rendered a verdict of one thousand dollars damages against the young men. Before the close of the war the men who robbed him in Connecticut were captured in Brookhaven, Long Island, and some of his effects recovered. One of the party was hanged and the others were severely punished.

[68] “The expenses already amount to the money sent.” All are familiar with the difficulties Washington had in obtaining money. However, he realized the importance of the Secret Service work and when they asked for it usually supplied small amounts. Woodhull seems to have feared Townsend would attribute this to lack of appreciation, and when sums came, forwarded all to Townsend, retaining nothing for himself. Townsend correctly considered himself an agent of General Washington, and expected him to meet the obligations it became necessary to incur, just as the General insisted upon being furnished promptly with sufficient to meet his own expenses. Like Washington, also, neither of the Culpers received money as a reward or hire for their personal services, and like him they were obliged to draw upon their personal funds. It may be roughly estimated that both men spent as much again as Washington sent them.

[69] _Cullper_ instead of _Culper_ it is written in Woodhull’s handwriting.

[70] A stone at the grave of Solomon Townsend, brother of Robert, is inscribed: “In Memory of Solomon Townsend, Member of the State Legislature from the City of New York, who departed this life on the 27th March, 1811, during the Session, aged 64 years 5 months and 2 days. The remains were transferred from Albany to this place Dec. 9th 1848.”

[71] Drowned Meadow is now called Port Jefferson, L. I.

[72] This letter says the captain was killed and only three or four of his 21 men wounded, while Coll. Tallmadge’s Memoirs, p. 75 says: “Nearly every man on board was either killed or wounded.” The fact that his memoirs were written fifty years after the event may account for this.

INDEX

Acker, Benjamin, 154

Almy, Deborah, 102

America shall be Mother of Nations, 104

Anderson, James, 117, written James instead of John, 117

Anderson, John, 117, 167

André, Maj. John, vi, 113, 114;
hides doughnuts, 114;
hanged, Oct. 2, 1780, 118, 123, 124;
letter to Simcoe, 124;
gets code letter, 126;
planned capture of Gen. Washington, 136;
returned to New York, 141;
his letter to Clinton, 142;
letter to Arnold, Sept 21, 1780, 143;
mentioned, 186

Arbuthnot, Admiral Marriott, 55, 85, 152, 202, 267;
off Sandy Hook, 278

Archdale, Capt., 96

Archibald, Capt., 141

Army’s situation, Feb. 1781, 272

Arnold, Benedict, 118, 144, 167, 177, 195, 195, 220, 223;
writes Tallmadge, 116;
influenced by British spies, 120;
treason carefully planned, 120;
asks Washington for real names of Culpers, 121;
letter to Gen. Howe, 121;
reply to Robert Howe, 123;
began plotting in 1779, 125;
writes code letter to André signed J. Moore, 126;
wants Sheldon’s help, 128;
sends Sheldon barrel of Rum, 128;
letter to André signed Gustavus, 130;
writes Sheldon and desires a meeting, 132;
reply to Sheldon, Sept. 10, 1780, 132;
starts to meet André, 135;
writes to Tallmadge, 137;
uneasy, 137;
addresses Anderson, Sept. 15, 1780, 137;
letter to Beverly Robinson, Sept. 18, 1780, 139;
tried to obtain names of those helping Washington, 171;
life at West Point, 171;
flight, Sept. 25, 1780, 175;
sketch, 181;
invites Major Tallmadge to become a traitor, 196;
success in Virginia, 272

Arnold, Benedict, Jr., 182

Arnold, Benedict, Sr., 181

Arnold, Betty, 182

Arnold, Edward, 177

Arnold, Elizabeth, 182

Arnold, Hannah, 182

Arnold, Henry, 182

Arnold, Mrs., 172, 176, 182

Arnold, Richard, 182

Arthur, Jesse, Block house on his farm, 194

Bad money returned to Washington, 270

Bancroft’s comment, 162

Barton, Gen., 236

Battery, guns mounted, 255;
mounts 42 pieces, 267;
refitting fortifications at, 250;
work at the, 57

Battle of Bunker Hill. Simcoe in Boston, 123

Battle of Long Island, described by eyewitness, 233

Bay of Fundy, 206

Bayard’s Hill, 64

Bayles, John, headquarters, 70

Bayside, L. I., 10

Beacons and signals on L. I., 84

Bedford, L. I., 56

Bedford, Westchester Co., 33, 66

Benson, Lieut. Colonel, 175

Bergen County, 246

Birch, Col., appointed commandant of New York, 96;
at Setauket, 95;
at Southampton, 236

Birdsall, Benjamin, 8

Birdsall, Margaret, 8

Black Rock, 284;
Brewster’s Farm at, 287

Black Rock Harbor, 287

Block Island, 202

Board in New York is £3 per week, 37, 238

Boatman forbid to cross, 99

Bolton, John. See Tallmadge, Major Benj., 11, 60, 83

Bown, Robert, of Shrewsbury, 273

Bowne, D., 10

Bowne, Hannah, 268

Bowne, John, of Flushing, 268

Bowne, Samuel, of Flushing, 268

Boyd, Ebenezer, relates the event, 155

Branch, troops there, 93

Brewster, Benjamin, 285

Brewster, Caleb, Letters:
Feb. 26, 1779, 38;
Aug. 18, 1780, 91;
Aug. 21, 1780, 92;
Aug. 27, 1780, 93;
Nov. 13, 1780, 191;
Feb. 14, 1781, 197, 273;
Advised of necessary steps for safety, 254;
attacked by Glover and Hoyght, 91;
Boat fight, 286;
captures another boat, 197;
carries important message, 116;
finds British works at Canoe Place, 38;
finds Erskine at Southampton with 2500, 37;
finds three redoubts at South and East Hampton, 37;
makes post at Fairfield, 33;
finds it necessary to kill a man, 91;
took a prize, 191;
takes 8 prisoners, 273;
mentioned, 11, 14, 16, 31, 33, 81, 94, 116, 190, 191, 267, 283, 288;
Sketch, 284

Brewster, Daniel, 285

Brewster, Hannah, 16

Brewster, Jonathan, 285

Brewster, Rev. Nathaniel, 285

Brewster, Sturges, 288

Brewster, William, of Plymouth, 285

British Boats mentioned by name:
Amphitrite, 87;
America, 87;
Ardent, 40, 258;
Argo, 224;
Bedford, 87, 235;
Camilla, 87;
Centurian, 280;
Colloden, 87;
Confederacy, 278;
Daphne, 52, 248, 250, 258;
Defiance, 63, 263;
Delaware, 52, 237, 244, 248;
Europa, 55, 57, 63, 87, 258, 263;
Experiment, 56;
Fox, 287;
Grand Duke, 85;
Greyhound, 53, 249;
Halifax, 38;
Hunter, 63;
LeBlond, 53;
Loyalist, 73;
London, 87;
Lioness, 264;
Lord Townsend, 237;
Lion, 280;
Oliver Cromwell, 73;
Perseus, 263;
Prudent, 87;
Rainbow, 40, 249, 258;
Raisonable, 53, 63, 243, 249, 263;
Renown, 57, 63, 250, 263, 267;
Richmond, 235;
Rising Sun, 87;
Romulus, 40, 48, 52, 248, 249, 263;
Roebuck, 63, 235, 263;
Robuste, 64, 87, 263;
Rose, 41;
Royal Oak, 87;
Russel, 55, 57, 63, 263;
Scorpion, 38, 86;
Shrewsbury, 87;
Solebay, 64, 264;
Swan, 87;
Towey, 64;
Vulture, 139, 141, 148, 151, 152, 179

British Fleet has sailed from Gardiner’s Bay, 94

Brookhaven, L. I., 16, 31, 239