Baltimore 5 January 1777
Dear General Nothing could have happened more opportunely than the drubbing you have given the Hessians at Trenton. God grant the blow may be followed up until you expell these Robbers from the Jersies at least. If they do not get severe castigation for their late maneuvres in Jersey, they will sophisticate all Europe with lies. The genius of America seems now to be awakening from profound sleep. Let the moment be improved for making a vigorous and decisive impression. We have had several valuable arrivals lately with powders, woolens and arms. More are daily expected. But you seem now to have got into a shorter and surer method of obtaining these things by stripping the enemy. I heartily approve the plan. I am still of opinion that the Spring torch will light up a general war in Europe, but still we should be prepared to receive the enemy in every quarter. Both in public and in private as little should rest upon externals as possible. Will you please to tell our Major Parker that I will forward his commission by the first good opportunity. Congress has adopted the European plan in offering six Hessian field officers for Gen. Lee. If it is not accepted, I hope a noble feud will take place between these foreigners and their British Allies.
I am, as of old, your affectionate friend,
Richard Henry Lee
Receiver's copy, Connecticut State Library. Addressed: "Brigadier General Stephen in the Jersies. Favored by Colo. Hartley."
1 Adam Stephen (c.1730 - 91), who had been promoted to the rank of brigadier general in September 1776, was promoted to major general on February 19, 1777, but was dismissed from the service later in the year forbeing intoxicated on duty. Appleton's Cyclopaedia of American Biography.