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De Lancey’s Excursion to Connecticut

From Diary of the American Revolution, Vol II.  Compiled by Frank Moore and published in 1859.

December 11.—Night before last a detachment of Colonel James De Lancey’s Refugees, under the command of Major Hugerford, penetrated Connecticut as far as North Street, and on the morning of the 10th, before day, made a successful attack on the rebels posted there. From the situation of the enemy it was necessary to make an attack on three different posts on the same instant; the divisions for that purpose were led on by Captain Simons, and Lieutenants Totten and Kipp, in a manner that does them great credit. The loss of the rebels was fifteen killed and twenty-five prisoners, among whom were Colonel Wells, one brigade-major, one captain, two lieutenants, and two ensigns. Colonel Wells expressed his astonishment at the bravery of the conquerors, and acknowledged the humanity and great civility of Lieutenant James Kipp, who commanded the attack against him, and to whom he surrendered. The Westchester detachment consisted of about twenty-five mounted, and twenty-five dismounted loyalists. Their march was sixty miles out and home, which, after effecting the above coup, was performed within the space of twenty-four hours.1

 

1 Gaine’s Mercury, December 18.