George Washington

“ The time is now near at hand which will probably determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves, whether they are to have any property they can call their own, or whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed and they consigned to a state of wretchedness from which they cannot be delivered. Our cruel and unrelenting Enemy leaves us no choice but a brave resistance or the most abject submission. ”

“ They are good men. Heed their commands. On the march south a profound silence is to be enjoined and reflect upon what we owe those mercenaries. And when the hour is upon us fight for all that you are worth and all that you cherish and love. The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct that you show. ”

“ Even the expression is impious, for so unlimited a power can belong only to God.
Men, Your conduct during this recent campaign has been most commendable. You have sacrificed much for your country and brought much honor upon yourselves. ”

“ Tents, blankets, flints, powder, cooking pots and food are in short supply. Our force is small and our defensive positions along the banks of the Delaware stretched thinly and quite exposed and vulnerable. ”