Henry Clinton letter to Charles Cornwallis, 24 September 1781

My Lord, New York, Sept 24, 1781.

At a meeting of the General and Flag Officers, held this day, it is determined that about 5000 men, rank and file, shall be embarked aboard the King's ships, and the joint exertions of the navy and army made in a few days to relieve you and afterwards co-operate with you.

The fleet consists of twenty-three sail of the line, three of which are 3-deckers. There is every reason to hope we start from hence the 5th October. I have, &c.,

H. Clinton.

P.S. — -Admiral Digby is this moment arrived at the Hook with three sail of the line.

The council of war was attended by five General and four Flag Officers. Sir Henry Clinton said that it was the unanimous opinion of the General Officers, that Lord Cornwallis' situation required the most speedy assistance, and that the only probable means to relieve him appeared to be a direct movement of the fleet and army to the Chesapeak ; and if a junction with him could be effected, that the fleet should remain in that river. That as the loss of Lord Cornwallis' corps would be attended with the most fatal consequences, no time should be lost in attempting to relieve him, even at some risk.

It was proposed, and the question put and agreed to — That the troops, &c. designed and held in readiness for this service should (when the fleet was refitted) be put on board the King's ships, and the whole afterwards proceed to the Chesapeak, and endeavour by every means in their power to form a junction with Lord Cornwallis' army.

It is not stated whether the decision was unanimous ; but judging from that word having been introduced in the resolation come to by the General Officers, it would appear not.