Intelligence letters were used frequently by both the British and American forces.  These letters contained information regarding the military strategies of the opposing force, usually obtained by spy networks. Some intelligence letters and reports, such as Miss Jenny's deposition, did not travel through enemy lines.  Because of this, Ottendorf did not use any form of cipher or invisible ink to hide the information contained in the letter.  Some of the intelligence letters also contained maps or drawings of the enemy army's movements or headquarters. Maps, such as the hastily drawn view of the Hudson River and John Andre's drawing of West Point, are more examples of intelligence information sent to the commanders of the British and American armies.
 

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