Beschreibung:

ARNOLD, Benedict (1741-1801), Major General, Continental Army. Autograph letter signed ("B Arnold B Genl") TO COLONEL TIMOTHY BEDEL, "Commanding at the Cedars," Montreal, 24 April 1776. 1 page, 4to, integral autograph address leaf (part of blank cut away), slight browning to right-hand edge . ARNOLD WARNS OF THE ATTACK ON THE CEDARS. A fine letter at the latter stages of the Canadian invasion. Arnold had left the seige of Quebec in the hands of General Wooster and gone to Montreal to recuperate, where he learned of an impending attack on the small American garrison at The Cedars, on the St. Lawrence just west of Montreal, commanded by Bedel: "I have received certain intelligence... that the Inhabitants of Isle Perot, River des Chenes, quinchien [Quinze Chiens], and the Cedars; Parishes near your Post...are united in a design of cutting off your party. This Intelligence is Just come to hand, and I have thought proper to send an express to acquaint you with it...You will take every possible precaution to prevent a surprise by keeping your men as near together as can be, and Fortfying as well as your Situation will alow. Two Hundred Men from St. Johns are ordered to Join you immediately. Write me by return of the Bearer who has orders to hurry on the Amunition etc. to you." On 16 May The Cedars was attacked by about 500 Indians and 150 French and English. The ill-fated garrison and the relief column from Montreal were captured. Two prisoners were executed, and four or five were later tortured and killed by the Indians; the survivors were finally turned over to Arnold. By June, the American invasion of Canada was in disarray and a withdrawal was ordered.