I sent off my baggage, and desired
Colonel Hamilton to go forward and inform General Arnold that I would
breakfast with him. Soon after he arrived at Arnold's quarters, a letter
was delivered to Arnold which threw him into the greatest confusion. He
told Colonel Hamilton that something required his immediate attendance
at the garrison which was on the opposite side of the river to his
quarters; and immediately ordered a horse, to take him to the river; and
the barge, which he kept to cross, to be ready; and desired Major
Franks, his Aid, to inform me when I should arrive, that he was gone
over the river and would return immediately. When I got to his quarters
and did not find him there, I desired Major Franks to order me some
breakfast; and as I intended to visit the fortifications I would see
General Arnold there. After I had breakfasted, I went over the river,
and inquiring for Arnold, the commanding officer told me that he had
not been there. I likewise inquired at the several redoubts, but no one
could give me any information where he was. The impropriety of his
conduct when he knew I was to be there, struck me very forcibly, and my
mind misgave me; but I had not the least idea of the real cause. When I
returned to Arnold's quarters about two hours after, and told Colonel
Hamilton that I had not seen him, he gave me a packet which had just
arrived for me from Col. Jemmison, which immediately brought the matter
to light.
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