Jan. 6, 1776

Watertown, Massachusetts

Responding to a request from Gen. George Washington, John Adams sent a letter weighing in on Gen. Charles Lee’s ambitious plan for New York’s defense. Lee proposed preempting a British attack by sending Connecticut volunteers, reinforced by whatever men could be persuaded to take up arms in New York and New Jersey, to Long Island to suppress, and if necessary, drive out the Loyalist Tories entrenched there.

Adams regretted having to reply in haste, but the moment allowed no leisure: Reports warned that a British force under Gen. Henry Clinton was preparing to depart Boston for Long Island.

“From John Adams

Dr sir

As your Excellency has asked my Opinion of........

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