Dearest Friend
The Day, perhaps the decisive Day, is come on which the fate of America depends. My bursting Heart must find vent at my pen.
I have just heard that our dear Friend Dr. Warren is no more but fell gloriously fighting for his Country-saying better to die honourably in the field than ignominiously hang upon the Gallows.
Great is our Loss. He has distinguished himself in every engagement, by his courage and fortitude, by animating the Soldiers & leading them on by his own example — a particular account of these dreadful, but I hope Glorious Days will be transmitted you, no doubt in the exactest manner.
The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong — but the God of Israel is he that giveth strength & power unto his people. Trust in him at all times ye people pour out your hearts before him. God is a refuge for us.
Charlestown is laid in ashes. The Battle began upon our intrenchments upon Bunkers Hill, a Saturday morning about 3 o’clock & has not ceased yet & tis now 3 o’clock Sabbath afternoon.
Tis expected they will come out over the Neck to night, & a dreadful Battle must ensue. Almighty God cover the heads of our Country men, & be a shield to our Dear Friends. How many have fallen we know not – the constant roar of the cannon is so distressing that we can not Eat Drink or Sleep — may we be supported and sustained in the dreadful conflict.
I shall tarry here till tis thought unsafe by my Friends, & then I have secured myself a retreat at your Brothers who has kindly offered me part of his house. I cannot compose myself to write any further at present — I will add more as I hear further–