I told him I did not think
that would suit him, as I should leave none in the garrison but
invalids, because it would be entirely covered by the main army. The
subject was dropt at that time, and he returned to Philadelphia. It then
appeared somewhat strange to me, that a man of Arnold's known activity
and enterprise, should be desirous of taking so inactive a part. I
however thought no more of the matter. When the French troops arrived at
Rhode Island, I had intelligence from New York that General Clinton
intended to make an attack upon them before they could get themselves
settled and fortified. In consequence of that, I was determined to
attack New York, which would be left much exposed by his drawing off the
British troops; and accordingly formed my line of battle, and moved down
with the whole army to King's ferry, which we passed. Arnold came to
camp at that time, and having no command, and consequently no quarters
(all the houses thereabouts being occupied by the army), he was obliged
to seek lodgings at some distance from the camp. While the army was
crossing at King's ferry, I was going to see the last detachment over,
and met Arnold, who asked me if I had thought of anything for him. I
told him that he was to have the command of the light troops, which was
a post of honor, and which his rank indeed entitled him to. Upon this
information his countenance changed, and he appeared to be quite fallen;
and instead of thanking me, or expressing any pleasure at the
appointment, never opened his mouth.
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