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HORATIO GATES A.L.S.

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HORATIO GATES A.L.S.
<b>6. HORATIO GATES</b> (1728 - 1806) American Revolution Major General who with Arnold forced Burgoyne's surrender at Saratoga, he was later examined by Congress for his disastrous defeat at Camden. Fine content and very interesting A.L.S. 3pp. 4to., Hillsboro, Dec. 28, 1780 to Richard Peters, secretary to the Board of War.. Three weeks after Nathaniel Greene assumed Gates's command of the Southern Department (Dec. 2), Gates writes Peters concerning the state of various units, noting returns sent to the Board of War, and even mentions the possible re-assumption of command! He writes in part: "<i>...I wish I could say the Cavalry were in better plight. The Regiments of Baylor and the late Blands, are near one half Sick. I have shifted them into more wholesome Quarters, who, or wherefore, they were want to Halifax I know not, but there they were when I passed through this State; I immagin'd Baron De Kalb had Order'd them there, but he assured me, before his Death, to the Contrary -- I am happy you have corer'd a Commissary of Military Stores to Richmond such an officer was much wanted in this Department; as he comes out under the Auspices of my Friend Hagdon...Though the returns are intended for the Board, this is designed only as a private Letter, my official one will come with the General Returns - for your private information...I am wrote almost Dead, for since Sun rise the pen has hardly been out of my hand, & it is now near Two O Clock...</i>". Apparently not believing his removal from command was permanent, he adds: "<i>Should the French Troops come[?] this way, & I am continued in Command, I must desire Clayson may be dispatched to Hillsborough as it will be utterly impossible for me to Act with them without this Assistance. I am still a must unhappy Mortal upon Account of poor Bob, whose Health is for my Peace of Mind, in much to precarious a State...</i>". Ironically on this date, the Virginia House of Delegates voted unanimously that his previous glorious services were such as could not be obscured by his failure at and flight from Camden. Last page reinforced at margins, otherwise near fine condition.<b> $800-1,200</b>