I90I-2.] Joseph Brant in the American Revolution. 39» 



JOSEPH BRANT IN THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 



By Lieut.-Col. E. Cruikshank. 



Second Paper. 



(Read 26th April, igo2). 



There can be no more convincing proof of the extreme importance 

 that was attached to the subjugation of the Indians than the fact that 

 Washington was willing to detach an entire division of his best troops 

 upon this service for the greater part of a year and weaken his own 

 army so much in consequence that he was obliged to remain almost 

 wholly on the defensive during their absence. Preparations for this 

 expedition began in the winter of 1778-9. As early as February nth, 

 1779, Washington had instructed Major-General Philip Schuyler to 

 collect intelligence for that purpose. 



" It will be necessary immediately to employ proper persons 

 unacquainted with each other's business to mix with the hostile Indians 

 that the most unequivocal information may be gained of their strength, 

 their intentions, and what ideas they may have acquired of our design. 

 We should also learn what support or assistance they expect in case 

 our intention should be known to them or, what precautions they are 

 taking to oppose our operations. 



" The Indians in friendship with us may be sent on this purpose. 

 The half-tories also, if they can be engaged and will leave pledges as a 

 security for their fidelity, might prove very useful instruments. Similar 

 investigations should be carried into Canada and the garrison at 

 Niagara. 



" I shall likewise depend on your having the routes to the object of 

 the expedition critically explored both by Indians and others so that 

 a complete knowledge of distances, natural difficulties, and the face and 

 nature of the country may be obtained." 



On March 3rd, 1779, letters were addressed to President Reed, 

 of Pennsylvania, and Governor Clinton, of New York, informing them 

 of the proposed invasion of the Indian country and requiring the 

 assistance of a body of militia from each State, suggesting at the same 



