Spy Letters of the American Revolution
Stories of Spies and Letters Saratoga Miscalculations

Howe Goes His Own Way
July 17, 1777 -- William Howe to John Burgoyne

Image of letter (July 17, 1777). Click for larger view.

Image of letter (July 17, 1777). Click for larger view.

General William Howe sent General John Burgoyne a secret dispatch on July 17, 1777. The dispatch consists of two, long narrow strips of paper, designed for insertion in the hollow quill of a large feather. Howe alerted Burgoyne that he would invade Pennsylvania rather than move up the Hudson to form a junction with Burgoyne's northern army.

Even though Burgoyne knew that he could not count on Howe's cooperation, he still continued his ill-fated advance up the Hudson River.  Burgoyne's determination may be explained by his personal ambition, professional honor, and faith in the superior fighting abilities of the British soldiers.

Map of Saratoga. Click for larger view.



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July 17, 1777
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Quill Letter
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1777

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