It appears to me difficult to account for the Evacuation of these posts even upon the principle of Cowardice. The whole Conduct seems to carry the evident Marks of Deliberation & Design. If we are vigilant active spirited & decisive, I yet flatter my self, notwithstanding the present vexatious Situation of our Affrs at the northwd we shall humble our Enemies this Campaign. I am truly mortified at their leaving this place because I think we were fully prepared for it, & I believe the Cowardly Rascals knew it. May Heaven prosper our Righteous Cause. Adieu, TO MRS. ADAMS. [MS., Samuel Adams Papers, Lenox Library.] PHILAD. 2d Augt 17771 MY DEAR BETSY Mr Bruces tarrying in this City longer than I expected, affords me an Opportunity of giving you a second short Letter by him. The Enemies Fleet have left these Capes & it is supposd they are gone either to N York or N England. Secure a Place in the Country to which you may Retreat in case there shd be a Necessity for it. Preserve your usual Steadiness of Mind. Take the Advice of those who are your and my Friends with Regard to removing. I hope there will be no Necessity for it. I am truly sorry the . . . . have not made this City their Object, as they . . . . long threatend. I think we were fully prepared to receive them. Perhaps Providence designs that N England shall have the Honor of giving them the decisive Blow. May Heaven prosper our righteous Cause, in such Way and by such Instruments as to his infinite Wisdom shall seem meet. I am in good Health and Spirits. Adieu my dear, _________________________________________________________________ 1For a letter on this date by Adams to Washington, see W. V. Wells, Life of Samuel Adams, vol. ii., p. 487; cf. Sparks, Writings of Washington, vol. v., p. 14; Ford, Writings of Washington, vol. vi., p. 4. TO SAMUEL FREEMAN. [MS., Samuel Adams Papers, Lenox Library.] [August 5, 1777] DR SIR I have had the pleasure of receiving several Letters from you, and I thank you for the Intelligence therein communicated to me. I beg you will continue your favors although it may not be in my Power to ballance the Account.