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AUTOBIOGRAPHY 
 
 OF 
 
 THOMAS PAINTER 
 
 RELATING HIS EXPERIENCES 
 
 DURING THE WAR OF 
 
 THE REVOLUTION 
 
 PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION 
 
ff^ 'IE 
 
EXPLANATORY PREFACE. 
 
 The following autobiography was written in 
 1836, when Thomas Painter, the author and a 
 Revolutionary Soldier, was seventy-six years 
 of age. It was in his own handwriting, written 
 for his children, that they might appreciate his 
 eventful life, and has been copied from his 
 original manuscript with exactness. 
 
 One of his grandchildren, Mrs. Lewis 
 Clephane, of Washington, D. C, believing that 
 those of his descendants to whom the original 
 document is not accessible, would highly prize 
 copies of it, has had it printed for private cir- 
 culation among them. 
 
 It is sent to Historical Societies because, 
 although in some respects of a nature personal 
 to the family, it contains much of general 
 interest. 
 
 March, 1910. 
 
THOMAS PAINTER 
 
 COPY OF PASTEL MADE AT AGE 36 
 
HISTORY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 FAMILY, AND LIFE OF 
 
 THOMAS PAINTER 
 
 (THE AUTHOR, AND WRITER, AND SUBJECT OF THIS 
 
 NARRATIVE) ONE OF THE DESCENDANTS OF 
 
 THE PAINTER FAMILY, IN THE PARISH 
 
 OF WEST HAVEN, WHICH TILL 
 
 QUITE RECENTLY BELONGED 
 
 TO THE TOWN OF 
 
 NEW HAVEN. 
 
 I was born in the parish of West Haven, in 
 the House where I now live on the 24th day of 
 January 1760. My father's name was Joseph, 
 the second son of Shubael Painter and Eliza- 
 beth Dunbar. My mother's name was Amy, 
 daughter of Thomas Stevens and Desire Smith 
 and granddaughter of the aged Thomas and 
 Amy Stevens. My grandmother Stevens Law, 
 was of the first Smith family, and was the 
 
daughter of Samuel Smith, and was born in the 
 house where I now live, about 130 years since. 
 
 My father had 5 children. Two sons and Three 
 daughters. Viz. Myself, Shubael — Amy and 
 Betty, and one died in infancy. Amy married 
 David Clinton who was captur'd on board the 
 Gaily Privateer, Charles Pond, Commander, 
 and died on board the Old Jersey prison Ship, 
 in New York, in the revolutionary War. 
 
 She, afterwards married Thomas Benham, 
 and moved into the State of New York, to a 
 place called Armenia. Her husband fell into 
 a sort of deranged State of mind and at length 
 hung himself. She sometime, afterwards went 
 out to the ^A/'est, to Visit her children where she 
 was taken sick, and died, aged about 75 years. 
 Soon after the death of my Father, Shubael 
 went to live at Milford Farms, with a Mr. 
 Nettleton. After staying there some time, he 
 was put out to a Mr. Gaylord, of Cheshire, to 
 learn, the Blacksmith's trade. After serving 
 his time out, he came to West Haven and went 
 to Sea, with me. 
 
 On his second or third voyage he sicken'd 
 and died, on our passage Home and I committed 
 his mortal remains to a Watery Grave, never 
 more to be seen till the Sound of the Arch 
 Angel's Trump, shall cause the Sea to give up 
 
her dead. My Father followed the Sea for a 
 living, and sailed out of Milford, in the Employ 
 of Col. Edward Ailing. He had command of 
 a Vessel and in the year 1766, being on a Voy- 
 age, and while lying in the harbor of Basten, 
 in the Island of St. Christophers, was drove out 
 in a hurricane and upset. The Crew remained 
 some time on the Vessel's bottom, till some 
 were drowned in attempting to procure pro- 
 visions, and in trying to cut the masts away, 
 so that she might right. Some set out to swim 
 on shore, but were never heard from, until only 
 two remained, my father, and one Cadwell, of 
 Milford. At length a Vessel hove in sight, and 
 came near there, but she had lost her boat in 
 the Gale, and other ways damaged so that she 
 dare not come near enough to save them, unless 
 they could swim to them, as they dare not come 
 alongside of the Wreck. Cadwell, being a good 
 swimmer, was enabled, by swimming, to get 
 so near the Vessel that he caught a rope, and 
 thereby got on board. My Father could not 
 swim, and therefore, had to stay behind, where 
 he remained, until Death relieved him from 
 his sufferings, and as there was reason to 
 believe, that he Exchanged a World of Sin 
 and Sorrow, for a World of perfect peace, 
 and happiness, leaving his poor Widow, and 
 
Orphan Children to lament their loss, and 
 for a short season longer, to contend with 
 the storms and tempests of this Wilderness 
 World. 
 
 My Mother now being left a Widow and in 
 low circumstances, with four Fatherless Chil- 
 dren to look up to her for Bread, the oldest of 
 which, was only about g years old. She there- 
 fore had to work hard, and fare hard, for about 
 7 years when she was taken sick of a fever, 
 and died. And, as it was believed, made a 
 happy Exit, to that blessed World, where the 
 Wicked cease from troubling, and the W^eary 
 are at Rest. 
 
 At the death of my Father, I was about Six 
 years of age, and my mother, being unable to 
 support all her children, I had to shirk for my- 
 self, and went to live with my Grandmother 
 Smith, Stevens, Painter, Law, at Cheshire, She 
 having had three husbands. Here I remained 
 until I was about ii years of age. At about 
 that time I returned back to West Haven, and 
 went to live with my Uncle Jesse Stevens, 
 in the House, where Newton Stevens now 
 lives, to learn the Shoe Maker's trade, where I 
 continued working with him at Shoes and 
 farming out. If at any time I wanted a little 
 pocket money, I had no parents or friends to 
 
furnish me with any. I therefore had to 
 depend on my own Exertions, and try to 
 furnish myself. 
 
 This seemed at the time to be a hard lot, 
 as other Boys of my age, had Parents to 
 furnish them, whenever they wanted. But 
 before I was 21 years of age, I was of a very 
 different opinion, and thought it was altogether 
 to my advantage, to be oblig'd to shirk for my- 
 self, as I found myself far ahead of those which 
 I had so much envied, insomuch that when I, 
 had charge of a Vessel, they were sailing with 
 me, as raw hands, and but just beginning to 
 find out, that they had got to gain a living for 
 themselves. While living with my Uncle 
 Stevens, I found from observation that he, had 
 hard work to get along and support his family, 
 and of course I, could not expect to do any 
 better than that, at that business. I therefore 
 thought it best, that I should take some other 
 course, and the Revolutionary War coming 
 on, I thought it best to try my fortune by a 
 Roving life, and having (as, is common for 
 Boys) an inclination for a Soldier's life, I 
 Enlisted in a company commanded by Robert 
 Brown, of New Haven, for a campaign of 2 
 months, in the winter of 1776 — marched to 
 New York — went over to Brooklyn — and was 
 
employ' d the whole of the campaign in building 
 fortifications. At that time, there were only 8 
 or 10 Houses (Exclusive of the Ferryhouses) 
 on that End of the Island, where the city of 
 Brooklyn now stands. 
 
 At the close of this campaign, I returned back 
 to West Haven, and went to work a short time 
 with my Uncle, again, till sometime in the 
 month of June, when I enlisted in a Company, 
 Commanded by Capt. James Prentice, for a 
 Campaign of 6 months. This was a fortunate 
 Event to me, as this was a very fatiguing Cam- 
 paign. It made me sick of a Soldier's life, — for, 
 had I remained at home, till the next fall, when 
 orders were given out to Enlist during the War, 
 I should certainly have Enlisted, had it not been 
 for the circumstance above mentioned, as I was 
 so well pleased with the first short Campaign, 
 having no Enemy to contend with, there being 
 only one or two British Ships, in the Bay. After 
 Enlisting in this Company for 6 months under 
 Capt. Prentice, we marched to New York, and 
 were quarter' d in a large house in Wall Street, 
 said to have been the Residence of the last 
 British Governor. 
 
 At this time, the British fleet, and army, had 
 arrived from Boston, the Army being Encamped 
 on the North Side of Staten Island, and the fleet 
 
 10 
 
in the Bay, near them all in plain sight from the 
 City. While the fleet and Army lay at that 
 place, Two of the British Ships of War, got 
 Under way, with a fair wind, and tide came 
 up — and passed all our forts — went up the 
 North River to Tappan Bay, staid as long as 
 they pleased, — and then returned to the fleet, 
 after discharging their broadsides into the City, 
 as they passed each Way. 
 
 It being now about the 6th of July, in the 
 memorable year of 1776, news of the Decla- 
 ration of Independence had arrived, which 
 Declaration had been made at Philadelphia on 
 the 4th. This news appear' d to be well re- 
 ceived, and a large concourse, both of Troops 
 and Citizens assembled, and proceeded down 
 to the Bowling Green, at the lower End of 
 Broadway. In the centre of this Oval Space, 
 Enclosed by an Iron fence, stood the Effigy, of 
 King George, as large as life. He was seated 
 on his Horse, two legs up, and two down, imi- 
 tating a Horse on a gallop, with his sword by 
 his side, and his face toward the centre of the 
 City, as though he had just come from the 
 landing, and about to take a ride into the City. 
 This Statue of the King on his horse, being 
 placed on a stone, piled about 12 feet high, and 
 completely covered with Gold leaf, made it 
 
 II 
 
painful to the Eye, to look steadily upon, when 
 the Sun Shone clear, and bright. But notwith- 
 standing all this beautiful brightness, the as- 
 sembled multitude, soon tumbled his Majesty, 
 from his proud eminence, to the ground, and 
 his carcase, and that of his horse, (which was 
 principally Composed of Lead), was taken to 
 Litchfield, Conn. — and there in the back yard 
 of Gov. Wolcott, was soon converted into 
 Bullets to be returned back, as a present to his 
 more Obedient, more faithful, and more loyal 
 Subjects. 
 
 The British army after having remained a 
 considerable time, in their position at Staten 
 Island, finally made a movement, and landed 
 over on Long Island, and advanced northward 
 towards New York. 
 
 Our regiment, commanded by Capt. Doug- 
 lass, together with most of the Army, crossed 
 over to Long Island, to oppose them — the 
 British fleet, at the same time advancing by 
 slow degrees up towards the city; all, indicating 
 a general attack. But after maneuvering, and 
 Skirmishing some time on Long Island, and 
 seemingly,near the time of a decisive struggle, 
 and general Engagement, all of a sudden, in 
 the night. We were ordered to march with the 
 utmost stillness to the Ferry, where we found 
 
 12 
 
all in confusion and the Army crossing over to 
 New York. 
 
 W^e, were soon embarked and landed Safely 
 in the City, as did the whole of the Army (Ex- 
 cept the Rear Guard) before daylight, and they 
 were principally over before they were much 
 annoyed by the British. The fleet, by this time, 
 had advanced up near the Fort on Governor's 
 Island, where the Stone Castle now stands. 
 The Morning after the retreat from Long 
 Island, all seemed quiet, and still Except a few 
 shots from the Enemy, from the Bank, at 
 Brooklyn, at some of our Boats; but no firing 
 from our side. This morning a sloop of War, 
 came through Buttermilk Channel, between 
 Governor's Island, and Long Island, passed 
 up and anchored at the lower End of Black- 
 well Island, abreast of what was then called 
 North Bay, where the Shot tower now stands, 
 and where, at that time, was a large King's 
 store, which had contained munitions of War, 
 which had now been taken away by his rebel- 
 ling subjects. For two or three days there was 
 but little firing. The Enemy were making 
 cautious advances on the City. General Wash- 
 ington, was withdrawing his Troops back as 
 fast as possible, in order to avoid a general 
 action. He, knowing the weakness of his own 
 
 13 
 
Army, had, it seems, almost invariably made 
 it his rule, to avoid a general action, by which 
 policy, there can be no doubt, he finally obtained 
 the Victory. 
 
 The next day after the retreat from Long 
 Island, Our Regiment was ordered up to Turtle 
 Bay, abreast of the Enemy's Ship which went 
 up the day before. Soon after we arrived there, 
 a company of Our Artillery, with two field pieces, 
 came on to the Bank, and began to play away 
 upon the Sloop of War. She immediately com- 
 menced to get Springs on her Cables in order 
 to return the fire. But before they could get 
 ready to return a single shot, they were glad 
 to slip their Cables, and haul into a creek behind 
 Blackwell's Island, to avoid the fire, and to get 
 her on a careen to stop leaks. 
 
 In about three days after, we were surprised 
 by a body of Hessians, who were close to us 
 before we discovered them, and they, being in 
 a different uniform from the British, we did not 
 know them. Our Lieut. Col. (whose name was 
 Porter) went out to them, when behold, to our 
 surprise, they took him as their Prisoner. 
 
 We then immediately retreated out to the 
 Harlem road, and followed that, to Harlem 
 Heights, where the Army was collecting, and 
 went to Entrenching, and fortifying, as fast as 
 
 14 
 
possible. The next morning we were pursued 
 by a party of the Enemy, and our regiment was 
 ordered out to meet them. After a little Skir- 
 mishing they fought on their retreat, and while 
 we were following them we were obliged to go 
 over a large plain Hill near the North River. 
 As we rose this hill, the shot flew thick but I 
 escaped unhurt, and returned safe to camp. 
 After this, we seemed to remain very quiet 
 being well entrenched, close in the neighbor- 
 hood of a strong fortress, called Fort Wash- 
 ington. Our Troops having now Evacuated 
 New York, we could not seem to guess, in 
 what quarter we should be next attacked. But 
 after the Expiration of a few weeks, the Enemy 
 Embarked their Army in Water Craft, passed 
 through hurl gate, up to Frog's Point, and there 
 landed, in order to cut off our Retreat. 
 
 We immediately took up our line of march, 
 over King's Bridge, and out to White Plains, 
 where we took a position and went to fortifying. 
 But before long we received intelligence of the 
 approach of our Enemies, and went out to meet 
 them, and had a skirmish with them, but soon 
 retreated within our works, where we, and our 
 enemies, lay in plain sight of Each other, for a 
 considerable time, but as it appeared that we 
 should soon be attacked, the Camp fires were 
 
 15 
 
well kindled at night, and a Rear Guard left to 
 keep them burning, and as soon as it was dark, 
 orders came, to " Strike Tents, and March ''; — 
 so that we Stole a night' s march of our Enemies. 
 They had now become completely tired of 
 chasing us, in order to bring us to a general 
 action and therefore bent their course for the 
 North River, and part Crossed over into the 
 Jerseys, and the rest attacked Fort Washington, 
 on York Island, which we had left in the rear, 
 and took it after much blood was shed in the 
 storming. VJe now retreated north, to a place 
 called New Castle, where we lay till some time 
 in December, when our term of service had 
 expired, and we were discharged. 
 
 I then returned back to West Haven, thor- 
 oughly sick of a Soldier's life, determined, if 
 I went into the War again, to have my 
 furniture conveyed without its being Slung 
 at my back. 
 
 I then determined to try my fortune Pri- 
 vateering after staying, and working with my 
 Uncle, till the next Summer. I then went on 
 Board the Privateer Sloop Polly, of 12 Guns, 
 Capt. Roberts Commander. 
 
 Went out a short cruise but took nothing, 
 and on our return got on to Nantucket Shoals, 
 and came very near being lost. The next day, 
 
 16 
 
we fell in with Two British armed schooners, 
 which drove us on shore, the South side of 
 Nantucket. But we got some Guns out on the 
 Beach and prevented their burning the Sloop. 
 We afterwards got her off, and carried her into 
 New Bedford, where I entered on board the 
 Sloop Revenge, Isaac Freeborn, Commander, 
 and while lying in the Harbor of New Bedford, 
 in, as I should think late in November, we were 
 struck with Lightning, and one man killed, and 
 many more were wounded, so that to all ap- 
 pearance, they were dead. But they all came 
 too, and recovered. Except the one which was 
 killed, and he had no marks or broken wounds 
 to be found upon him, but those that recovered 
 were more or less scarrified. I have always 
 thought there was something remarkable in 
 this, it being so late in the season, and a cold 
 stormy day, with rain and snow, and there 
 being no thunder. Either before or afterwards. 
 I was myself, at the time, in the forecastle, 
 lying in one of the berths, while several others 
 were standing around near the hatch way, to 
 avoid the storm. All at once I heard (as I sup- 
 posed,) one of the Guns on Deck, discharged, 
 while all those who were standing before me 
 round the Hatch way, seemed to be stunned, 
 so as nearly to fall backward. Still I thought 
 
 17 
 
of nothing more than that one of the cannons 
 on Deck had been fired. 
 
 At length a great out-cry was made on Deck, 
 that the people were all killed. When I came 
 on Deck, I found the hatches opened, and those 
 who were alive were engaged in hauling out 
 those that appeared to be dead, from the Vessel's 
 hole, where they had most of them fled, to avoid 
 the palling of the storm. The lightning came 
 down the mast, and went directly in the Hole 
 where, (on account of the storm), most of the 
 people were. 
 
 Some time after this, we put to sea, and 
 cruised off to the Windward of Barbadoes, — 
 took a ship bound to Barbadoes, — and carried 
 her into Martinico — where I was discharged. 
 I then Entered on board the Brig Fairfield 
 James Hobby, Commander, beat up to Wind- 
 ward, between Martinico and St. Lucia, in 
 company with the Brig Resistance Capt. Chew, 
 Commander, and calculated to keep company. 
 But, we unfortunately parted, in a heavy squall, 
 in the night. 
 
 The next morning Capt. Chew fell in with a 
 Letter of Marque Ship, bound to Barbadoes, 
 which he Engaged, but got beat off, after hard 
 fighting, and lost his life in the action. Had 
 we been with him, we most probably should 
 
 i8 
 
have had a good prize, without any loss of life, 
 on account of our superior force. After cruising 
 a while, we returned Home, and I went to work 
 as usual. After being some time at home, I then 
 spent about two months, on board the armed 
 Schooner Miflin, Timothy White, Commander. 
 
 Our business was to cruise the Sound, and to 
 guard the Coast from Whale boats, and other 
 Excursions of the Enemy from Long Island. 
 My next cruise was on board the Brig Dean, 
 of i8 guns, from New London, Dan Scoville 
 Commander, on which cruise we took one 
 prize — A ship from Jamaica — carried her into 
 New London, but Benedict Arnold (the Traitor) 
 at the head of the British Troops, soon came 
 and destroyed that place, and our prize with it, 
 so that I obtained — nothing. 
 
 My next cruise was in a Whale Boat, in 
 Long Island Sound, Elisha Elderkin Com- 
 mander. On first going out, we went down to 
 Montauk Point, hoping to fall in with some 
 English Merchantmen, bound into Newport, 
 which was then in possession of the British. 
 But not meeting with any, we steered to the 
 W^estern part of the Sound, and being off Nor- 
 walk Islands, One pleasant Calm morning, in 
 the month of June, we fell in with 4 or 5 other 
 armed Whale boats and also a small Schooner 
 
 19 
 
boat, with some Swivels mounted on the Comb- 
 ings of the Hatchways. There being then in 
 sight a Sloop becalmed, Close in Shore, under 
 Long Island about half way between Hunting- 
 ton Bay, and Oyster Bay. In a short time 
 someone proposed to go over and take that 
 Sloop, and tow her across the sound. No 
 sooner said, than it was agreed to by all hands, 
 and we were quick at our oars, going for the 
 Sloop, notwithstanding there were several 
 Ships of War, lying in Oyster Bay, all in 
 plain sight, and we in plain sight of them, and 
 they preparing and manning their boats to 
 oppose us. But notwithstanding all this, Over 
 we went — took the Sloop — and towed her with 
 our boats, after having put about three men 
 from each boat on board the Sloop, to fight 
 the boats which were coming up after us. The 
 Sloop having some Swivels on board, we made 
 free use of them. The boats coming up after 
 us, were about i8 in number, and probably not 
 less than 150 men. 
 
 But notwithstanding their superiority we 
 beat them off, on the first attack, and got the 
 Sloop almost over to the main. But they 
 rallied and came up the second time, and 
 rowed right alongside of the Sloop, when the 
 Whale boats cut their Tow lines, and made 
 
 20 
 
their escape, and left us, who were on board 
 the Sloop, to be taken. Our Enemies then 
 took us, and carried us into Huntington Bay, 
 and put us safely on board his Majesty's Ship, 
 the Fonry e of 28 Guns. Thus Ended our Whale 
 Boat Cruise, with a Scotch prize, and a more 
 foolish and fool hardy transaction is not be 
 found upon record, unless it be that of Decatur, 
 in the destruction of the frigate Philadelphia in 
 the harbor of Tripoli. As soon as they had 
 received us on Board of this Ship, they prom- 
 ised to hang us at the yard arm. But this 
 promise they did not fulfill but put us on Board 
 of a Sloop, and sent us to New York, and put 
 us on Board the Good Hope, a new Prison 
 Ship then lying in the mouth of the North 
 River, abreast of the Ferry way to Powles 
 Hook (now Jersey City). The Ferry boats 
 would pass us sometimes on One side, and 
 sometimes on the other. 
 
 I thought in coming down to New York that 
 we had an Excellent opportunity, to make our 
 escape, while in the Narrows. Nothing but a 
 small guard on board, and they, and their arms 
 lying carelessly about, and I knew and I felt too 
 that they could be very easily taken. I there- 
 fore made the motion to my fellow prisoners, 
 but none of them seemed to be willing to join 
 
 21 
 
me in my undertaking, or, — not enough to 
 answer any good purpose, Consequently, we 
 were therefore Safely placed on board the 
 Prison Ship. After remaining here a few days, 
 and reflecting on my situation, and considering 
 that I had not had the Small Pox, and that most 
 likely it would soon be on board, and consider- 
 ing also, that the Chance of our Exchange was 
 Extremely bad, on account of our being Whale 
 boat men (the worst kind of Privateers men). 
 It therefore seemed to me, as if some way of 
 Escape must be contrived, — but how, seemed 
 very difficult to determine, as at night we were 
 shut, and barred down under Deck, with a 
 guard, and sentinels on Deck, and only two 
 allowed to come up through a small Hatch 
 way at a time. At length the thought occurred 
 to me, that if I could in any way, make peace 
 with the sentinels, two of us might possibly 
 make our Escape, by taking two Oars from 
 the fore Castle, where they were always placed, 
 and swim to the boat, which was moored to 
 the Buoy, of the Ship's anchor, at Slack tide, 
 and first of the flood, and let her drop Clear of 
 the Shipping with the tide, and so get up the 
 river, or over to the Jersey Shore. 
 
 After thinking and pondering my plan over, 
 so that I felt willing to make the attempt my- 
 
 22 
 
self, I revealed my plan to Capt. Elderkin, my 
 boat Commander, with whom I was taken (and 
 the only person on board, with whom I was 
 acquainted) I informed of the whole length and 
 breadth of my plan, which was this. Viz 
 
 That as we drew a small allowance of rum 
 daily, we would save it, until we had got a 
 Junk Bottle full with which, I thought we 
 could make the Sentinels so happy that we 
 could be enabled thereby to Escape. 
 
 We both finally concluded to make the 
 attempt. 
 
 We accordingly saved our allowance of 
 Rum, until Our bottle was full, and then waited 
 (but with great impatience,) until as we thought 
 a favorable time had arrived. We then took 
 our bottle and Tin Cup, and gained our admis- 
 sion on Deck — filled our Cup well with Rum, 
 with a very little water to it, and invited the 
 Sentinels to partake with us, which they readily 
 accepted, and repeated their drinks, until they 
 became so happy as to wholly neglect their 
 duty, and suffered the other Prisoners to come 
 on Deck without any restraint, which caused 
 much noise and confusion. Some were about 
 making their Escape by swimming on Shore. 
 
 Seeing all this unthought of occurrence, and 
 having lost my Companion (Capt. Elderkin) in 
 
 23 
 
the crowd, and bustle, I begun to think that my 
 chance for Escape was probably lost, as I 
 Expected, Every moment that the whole guard 
 would be up from below, and then a general 
 Alarm would be made, — And as I could never 
 Expect another opportunity I was determined 
 therefore, if possible to get overboard into the 
 River, and then sink or swim. I then ran for- 
 ward to the fore Castle to get down by the 
 cable, when I found One of the Prisoners, just 
 going down into the Water. I then told him 
 that after he got into the water, I would hand 
 him an Oar, and would bring another with me, 
 and we would take the Boat at the Buoy. He 
 accordingly took the Oar, and immediately set 
 out for the Boat, at the Buoy, but I saw that 
 he could not stem the tide but drifted up the 
 River. I therefore in my hurry very foolishly, 
 and carelessly neglected to take another Oar, 
 and came very near by that neglect, of loosing 
 my life, for I made haste down the Cable and 
 swam after him. Immediately after, the guard 
 was on Deck, and made an alarm, and caught 
 some of the Prisoners, a part of the way down 
 the Cable, and some in the Water, some on the 
 Wales and some Elsewhere, it being too dark 
 for them to discover me in the water. My 
 Companion, Capt. Elderkin, however, swam 
 
 24 
 
on shore in New York, — remained there four 
 days, was then taken up and returned back on 
 board the Prison Ship, so that none who at- 
 temped to Escape, made out to get away Ex- 
 cept myself. Soon after I got into the Water 
 from the Ship, there being at the time a heavy 
 tide ripple, I caught a draft of Salt Water in 
 my mouth, which almost strangled me, and 
 while I was trying to get clear of that, I caught 
 another, which really seemed, as though, would 
 finish me soon, and put an End to my bodily 
 sufferings, as my feet had got to hanging almost 
 strait down, and I found myself, in a drowning 
 state, and yet strange as it may seem I would 
 not call to the Ship for help. But it so hap- 
 pened, at seemingly the last moment of my 
 life, that I thought of the Oar, which I had 
 given to the man with me. I therefore called 
 on him for the Oar, to save me from drowning, 
 which he handed me immediately, by which 
 means my life was preserved. 
 
 After this we swam along together, up the 
 River and among the Shipping, to try to get a 
 Boat. While he was looking at one Ship, I 
 was looking at another. As I was unsuccess- 
 ful in my search, I paddled along after him, and 
 on overtaking him at a Ship, I found they were 
 taking him in. I lay still in the Water listning 
 
 25 
 
to see and hear, whether they gave him com- 
 forting words and reception, as I thought if 
 they did, I would apply to be taken on Board 
 too, as I was then alone, and in the North 
 River, without any Boat (Except what nature 
 had furnished) and knowing not which way 
 to steer. But I could hear nothing which I 
 thought would justify me in giving myself up. 
 So I drifted along up the River, sometimes 
 swimming for the Jersey Shore, then thinking 
 the tide might turn before I got over, and carry 
 me down into the Bay. I would then swim for 
 New York Side. Thus continuing for some- 
 time, in a state of Suspense and wholly un- 
 determined what to do. At length I made up 
 my mind to swim for New York, Which I did 
 and landed a little above the park, where the 
 City Hall, and Court House now stand, and 
 which was then called the Bowery. 
 
 After landing, I buried the Oar which I had 
 with me in the Sand, thinking that I might pos- 
 sibly want it again. I then crept up the Bank, 
 and laid myself down by the side of an Old 
 Breast work, which had been built by our 
 people, and partially covered myself with 
 bushes, clods, &c to keep off the mosquitoes. 
 I got but little sleep, and spent much of the 
 remaining night, in laying plans to effect my 
 
 26 
 
Escape. I ought before to have stated, that 
 we left the Prison Ship, in the fore part of the 
 night, at about lo o'clock in the Evening, which 
 was quite too Early for our safety. But we 
 had got rather impatient, and the tide seemed 
 to serve at that time, but it very much increased 
 the risk, and uncertainty of making our Escape. 
 As mentioned above I laid many plans of 
 Escape. One was, to go through the City to 
 the East River, and look up some of my old 
 neighbors who were refugees, and had j oined the 
 British, and beg, and petition them for as- 
 sistance. But as I was destitute of Clothes 
 almost naked, it seemed almost certain, that 
 I should be taken up immediately. So that 
 my only hope seemed to be, to keep entirely 
 out of Sight. 
 
 I concluded therefore, to take up my abode 
 in the Bowery, the next day, (which was the 
 Sabbath, and such a one as I have never seen 
 before or since,) and at night go down to the 
 River, dig up my Oar, which I had buried in 
 the Sand, in the Bank, and swim off among 
 the Shipping, and try to get a Boat. At day 
 break next morning, after the morning Gun 
 had been fired, I started into the Bowery, to 
 look for a safe place for the day. 
 
 What I term the Bowery was a large tract 
 
 27 
 
of Land — a sort of Cow Pasture, — lying on the 
 North Riverside, with here and there a Clump 
 of Bushes and Brambles. 
 
 At this time there was scarce any buildings 
 west of the Park, where the Court house now 
 stands. — Nor on the North River Side was 
 there any, to nearly down to the Battery, — 
 nor any Wharf, unless it was the Ferry Wharf. 
 After setting out as above mentioned, to find a 
 safe retreat for the day, and after searching 
 about for some time, I found a fine strip of 
 ground, covered with grass, and taking a foot 
 path, and following its windings around some 
 ways, among the Bushes I found near its ter- 
 mination, a large Bramble Bush. This I 
 thought would afford a fine and safe retreat. 
 
 I therefore made me a passage into the 
 middle of this thicket, by cutting the Brambles 
 close to the ground, and crawling in, having 
 some leaves for my bed. 
 
 Here I lay very quietly, till some time in the 
 afternoon, when I heard some persons, in con- 
 versation, and it appeared by the noise, that 
 they were approaching me. 
 
 I soon discovered, that it was a Gentleman 
 and Lady, who, it seems, had made choice of 
 my retreat for their own amusement. They 
 came and took a seat on the grass, close to my 
 
 28 
 
feet, and fell into conversation on various sub- 
 jects which however for a person in my situa- 
 tion was not very interesting. Now my chance 
 of Escape, as I thought, appeared to me to be 
 very small because I thought it almost impos- 
 sible for them to leave, and not discover me. 
 But there was no other way but for me to lie 
 still, keep my Eyes nearly closed, and wait the 
 Event. At length the Gentleman happening to 
 turn his Eye directly to where my feet lay, dis- 
 covered them. After piquing (and peeking) a 
 little closer, he says to the Lady, there is a 
 Boy, lying in the Bushes. This seemed rather 
 to discompose her Ladyship. But he still con- 
 tinued peeking and peeking, and finally sings 
 out Yo ho — Yo ho — . But I lay motionless, 
 making no answer. He then speaks to the 
 Lady, and says by G-d, I believe he is dead, — 
 upon which they both retired, and to my great 
 Joy, I saw the last of them. 
 
 After they were gone, for fear they might 
 return again, with a reinforcement, I scrambled 
 out, and sought a new retreat, and found One, 
 in which I remained quietly till night, and then 
 went down to the River, in order to swim off 
 and try to obtain a boat among the shipping. 
 
 But the wind being fresh from South West, 
 and considerable sea, I became discouraged. 
 
 29 
 
and went up the Bank, to my resting place the 
 night before, and lay down in the same man- 
 ner, for the night, but without tasting any food, 
 or Drink Since leaving the Ship, and then only 
 Prisoners' allowance. 
 
 This night was principally spent in trying to 
 contrive some new plan of Escape. And I 
 finally concluded to try to get up the Island to 
 Harlem, and then swim over Harlem Creek, 
 on to the main land, as I thought, If I could 
 only set my foot on the main and ten feet from 
 the point of a Bayonet, I should be happy. So 
 after wearing away the second night, at the 
 firing of the morning Gun, I steered up the 
 Island, keeping in the Woods, of which, 
 at this time, there was considerable on the 
 North River Side. I worked along undis- 
 covered by any body, for some time, until I 
 began to meet with Soldiers' Encampments, 
 the British army having just returned from 
 Philadelphia, and Encamped on York Island. 
 Here I found my plan Entirely frustrated, and 
 I must therefore look for a safe place of Retreat 
 for the day. I therefore got near the North 
 River, and found a thicket of wood and bushes, 
 with a small high Hill in the midst of them, 
 covered with thick brush wood. On the top 
 of this hill, I took up my abode for the day, 
 
 30 
 
not knowing which way to turn, only, hoping, 
 that I might discover some kind of ^A/'ate^ 
 Craft, come along and land, so that I might 
 obtain it, and get over to the Jersey side. Still 
 feeling determined to make my Escape, or die 
 in the Attempt. The day passed away and no 
 pleasing prospect, only for a short time, and 
 that was only that of two men, who came near 
 my lodgment, to mowing, and I had some hopes 
 of obtaining their dinners, by stealth, but was 
 disappointed. But when night came on, I went 
 to their hay, and stowed myself away in one of 
 the Cocks, and notwithstanding my awful situa- 
 tion, I had a comfortable night's rest, and did 
 not awake till rather late the next morning. 
 But on awaking, and getting up I spread the 
 hay pretty thorouly. I then retreated to my 
 hiding place for the day. Here, I seemed to 
 feel tolerably safe from my Enemies. But, 
 Oh! Hunger, and Thirst, they would find me, 
 and it seemed as though I must perish by 
 starvation, having had no food since leaving 
 the Ship. Here I had a long summer's day of 
 it, in the month of July, before me, which was 
 diligently Employed, in thinking of my present 
 situation, of my willingness to meet Death, and 
 whether I was prepared to meet my Judge in 
 peace. This long day finally drew to a close. 
 
 31 
 
and no help for me, by obtaining any kind of 
 Water Craft, and night coming on, I laid my- 
 self down on the ground to rest, the 4th night, 
 with a few boughs of the trees for a covering. 
 I spent the principal part of the night, in trying 
 to contrive some new mode of Escape, unless 
 I could obtain some Water the next day. But 
 finally I could see no possible way, unless I 
 could swim the North River, and reach the 
 Jersey Shore. But this appeared indeed like 
 a forlorn hope, but it really seemed also, as 
 though this was the only, and the very last 
 hope, if hope it might be called. 
 
 Finally, the morning Gun announced the 
 approach of day, and soon the Sun appeared, 
 and the day commenced, and mankind went to 
 their several occupations and Employments. 
 
 But Oh! miserable Employment for me, to 
 think of my Empty Stomach, my pinched up 
 frame, and of my present prospects. 
 
 Then to look at the distance to the Jersey 
 Shore, and the yawning gulph between that 
 and me, and then to think of gaining the other 
 side by swimming. But some hope still re- 
 mained, that some other way would be pro- 
 vided. All the fore part of the day passed 
 away much as before, and no prospect of any 
 relief, and I began to blame myself, for not 
 
 32 
 
having made the attempt before, as I had now 
 been without food, for such a length of time, I 
 thought my strength must be nearly gone, 
 insomuch that there could be but little hope of 
 my Ever reaching the Jersey Shore, by swim- 
 ming, and I began to be impatient to have 
 night come on, so that I might be on my way 
 for the other side. The place where I lay on 
 York Island, is a little below a spot of high 
 land, on the Jersey Side, and about opposite 
 Hoboken. On and near the high land which 
 was within the Enemy's Lines, a number of 
 people or British Soldiers, were Employed in 
 cutting wood for the Enemy, and in the course 
 of the day, a party of American Troops came 
 down, and fired on them, and drove them off, 
 and then returned back within their ov/n Lines. 
 The day being now far spent, and the night 
 approaching, I now began to get myself in 
 readiness, for my dangerous undertaking, by 
 looking to God for assistance, and protection, 
 and by committing myself wholly to his care, 
 and keeping, and by mustering up all my 
 remaining strength, and courage. 
 
 Of the latter, however there was not much 
 need, as I was so determined to make my 
 Escape, or die in the attempt, that I was totally 
 devoid of any such thing as fear. 
 
 33 
 
At length the sun fell behind the Western 
 hills and the day closed. At about a half an 
 hour after sun set, I crept down into the River, 
 and set my face for the Jersey Shore. But after 
 swimming out a little way into the river, I 
 could see and hear a number of men just below 
 me, which I supposed were the Enemy's guard. 
 I now thought I had been too anxious, and had 
 set out too soon. But providentially they did 
 not discover me, Or, if they did, they doubtless 
 thought me nothing more than a seal. I pur- 
 sued my course moderately and steadily for 
 the other side. It being a starlight night, I 
 could discover the high land on the other side. 
 I passed near one vessel, lying at anchor, but 
 
 1 supposed them to be Enemies. I therefore 
 did not disturb them. So I passed on my way, 
 undisturbed, until as I should judge, between 
 
 2 and 3 o'clock when to my unspeakable joy, I 
 found bottom with my feet. 
 
 I scrambled up, but soon found, that I could 
 not stand having been so long in the water, 
 that my strength was almost Entirely Ex- 
 hausted. However, I soon crept up the Bank, 
 where I joyfully, and I do hope thankfully to 
 my great Preserver, spent the remaining mo- 
 ments of the night, and also in listening to see 
 if I could hear any of the Enemies' Guards 
 
 34 
 
near me. At length the morning appeared. 
 And a pleasant one to me to find myself safe 
 on this side of the flood. And I also found, that, 
 my strength (notwithstanding my long fasting) 
 had returned in such abundance that I felt as 
 though I could leap any fence whatever, if 
 necessary, and that I feared not the face of 
 Clay, let it come in what shape it would, nor 
 the musket ball either. I now mounted the 
 hill, and took a last look at the little city of 
 New York, — the shipping, — and Especially of 
 the Prison Ship, from which I had Escaped. I 
 then shaped my course as near as I could 
 judge. Northwest, thinking that course would 
 carry me the soonest out of the Enemy's Lines, 
 and set out on a quick pace, through the Woods 
 and bushes. Endeavoring to avoid all roads and 
 highways. After travelling some distance I 
 came on to a high spot of land, where I could 
 see the river, and Salt marsh, which puts up 
 beyond, or, West of Powles' Hook, and runs 
 bowing round, as it appeared to me, to the 
 North East, and that, I concluded, was the 
 Extent of the Enemy's lines. I went on with 
 a quick pace, for the marsh, intending to swim 
 the river. I soon arrived at a thicket of 
 bushes, which lay along side of the meadow 
 and went into this swamp immediately, feeling 
 
 35 
 
determined to go through. After proceeding 
 some ways in this thicket, I found that the 
 Briars, and scratch grass, had cut and wounded 
 my feet to such a degree, that I was obHged to 
 stop and try to get back, which I did, after 
 much difficulty. After getting out of this horrid 
 place, I kept round to the North East, by the 
 Side of the Swamp, and up land, looking for a 
 place to approach the Meadow. At length I 
 came to a place, where a narrow neck of land, 
 put out into the Salt Meadow, apparently nearly 
 across it, with a building at the End, which I 
 thought might be a tide Mill, and a dwelling 
 House, about half way to it. I thought I would 
 go to the farthest building, and if a Mill, I might 
 go over the River on the dam So I walked 
 along very slowly towards the house, and at 
 the same time, heard a drum beat a little back, 
 and keeping a steady look at the house. I 
 observed, that the people would come to the 
 door, — stand, and look apparently at me, for a 
 moment, and then turn about, and run in. 
 Then others would come and do the same. At 
 this, I began to be very suspicious that trouble 
 was brewing for me, as I did not like to be so 
 much noticed. I therefore immediately took 
 down to the River, and swam across to the 
 opposite bank, in the Salt Meadow. By this 
 
 36 
 
time there was quite a number collected down 
 on the side of the River, which I had just left, 
 but I bid them defiance, and went, pretty lively, 
 over a large tract of Salt Meadow, into the 
 Woods. After having travelled some way, 
 across the fields, and after thinking, that I was 
 now, most probably, out of the Enemy's lines, 
 and that this River was the boundary, I felt 
 very desirous to make some Enquiry, having 
 seen no person until now, since leaving the 
 Ship, Except the Gentleman and Lady, above 
 mentioned, and the two men mowing hay. 
 
 At length as I was travelling across the fields, 
 (as I had avoided hitherto all roads and high- 
 ways,) I saw a Negro, going apparently to his 
 Work. I noticed the course he appeared to be 
 going, and forelaid him, intending to make the 
 necessary inquiries, and if he appeared dis- 
 posed to do me harm, to just knock him down, 
 and stiffen him, sufficiently for me to make my 
 Escape. Accordingly, I came up to him, and 
 Enquired, where the British lines were? and 
 where the American troops were ? 
 
 He said that the British were over the River, 
 which I had just crossed, and that the Amer- 
 icans were down the day before, and drove 
 off the Wood Cutters, and that there was no 
 danger here Massa. What he said about 
 
 37 
 
Wood Cutters I knew to be true, as I saw and 
 heard it, while on the opposite side of the 
 River. We then parted — the Negro pursued 
 his course, and I steered for the nearest road 
 I could find, for it was the first time I had 
 wished for a road, since landing from the 
 prison Ship. 
 
 Now for the moment my happiness appeared 
 to be complete, and I hastened my steps, 
 thinking what comfort I should now take, in 
 having my liberty, and once more to walk in 
 the plain highway in perfect safety. But before 
 I had enjoyed much of this anticipated com- 
 fort, all at once I began to feel my feet and 
 legs to be very sore, and when I came to 
 search them, I found they were much cut with 
 Scratch Grass and Briars. My strength also 
 began to fail me, and my back, to smart, by 
 the Blisters, which had been made by the Sun 
 as my clothing was little more than the collar, 
 and Shoulder Straps, of my Frock, and the 
 Waistbands of my trousers, the Whale boat 
 having carried off all my Clothes, Except what 
 was on my back, at the time of our capture. 
 After gaining the Highway I travelled on but 
 a little distance, before I seemed to be gone in 
 Every part, and was obliged to lie down by 
 the Fence, and it seemed as though I never 
 
 38 
 
could get to a house, although there was a 
 number in sight, and no great distance off. So 
 I tried to get along by walking a little way, 
 and then lying down, to try to gain strength, 
 and then walking again &c. At length I saw 
 three men, cradling grain, in a field near by, 
 and feeling now, as though I was perfectly 
 safe, I got over the fence, and went immediately 
 to them, and found them to be, a Dutchman, 
 and two of his Sons. I immediately addressed 
 the father, and begged assistance as I was in 
 a perishing situation. He immediately looked 
 at me with a stern, and unfriendly look, and 
 demanded to know where I came from. I at 
 once told him, that I had been a prisoner in 
 New York, and had run away from the prison 
 Ship, from which I had Escaped by swimming 
 ashore in New York, and then by swimming 
 across the North River, by which, means I 
 had got as far as here. He then hung his 
 cradle on his arm, and advanced towards 
 me, and, as appeared to me, with a much 
 more angry countenance than before, and 
 said, ^^he did not' ' ^^believe a word that I said'', 
 and then again demanded to know where I 
 came from, with a severe caution to tell the 
 truth. 
 
 I very soon, after my first speaking to him, 
 
 39 
 
began to be frightened, and was very careful 
 to retreat fast enough, to keep out of the reach 
 of his scythe. And I found also, as my fright 
 increased, by the appearance of danger, that 
 my strength, and activity increased also, so 
 that I felt no more of my late weakness, and 
 sores but perfectly able, for almost any con- 
 test, be it ever so formidable, and fully deter- 
 mined never to be taken alive. I therefore 
 kept on the retreat toward the road, from 
 whence I came, and got almost back to the 
 fence, when all at once, the Old Gentleman 
 altered his tone, and language, and as I then 
 thought. Even his looks, and said, ''That he 
 was my friend, but he was afraid of me, and 
 thought I might be a Spy from the Enemy, 
 and that I came with this story, only to deceive 
 and Ensnare him, for if he treated me kindly, 
 it might serve as an Excuse for the British 
 who were his neighbors to come, and strip him 
 of Every thing he had. But he was now satis- 
 fied, that I was no spy, and I need not be afraid 
 of him, — that he was my friend, and would 
 give me any assistance, that I wanted". This 
 he said, I believe I may say, with tears in his 
 Eyes, and yet, with all he could say, and do, 
 I could not get rid of the fright he had given 
 me. He finally persuaded me, to take some 
 
 40 
 
of his drink, which, I think was beer, and then 
 urged me to go to his House, and get some 
 food. I asked him which his house was. He 
 pointed me right towards the Enemy's lines, 
 and I refused to go that way. He then said, 
 that he would go with me, over to a spot of 
 high ground, and point me out the way to his 
 sons House, where I could call, and give his 
 name, and, they would give me assistance. 
 So we walked on together, and on the way, he 
 got some strips of bark, and tried to tie up 
 some of the holes in my frock, and to cover 
 the blisters which the Sun had made, and 
 began again to try to persuade me to go with 
 him to his house. At length he prevailed on 
 me to give my consent, though very unwill- 
 ingly. On our way, he asked me, if I could 
 talk Dutch. I told him, I could not. As soon 
 as we got to the House, he, and his Wife began 
 to gabber away in Dutch, at a great rate. This 
 again, made me more fearful, that I might soon 
 see the Enemy Enter the Door. The Old Gentle- 
 man said, he would only give me to Eat, some 
 Suppaum (or, Hasty pudding, in English, ) as I 
 had been so long without food, he said, he 
 thought, it would kill me, to Eat hearty food. 
 This, I presume was Correct, as it was as 
 much as I could do, to bear up, under the 
 
 41 
 
Suppaum. After I had finished my meal, he 
 gave me a Shirt, Waistcoat, and trousers. I 
 went out into his garden took off my collar and 
 Waistband (which although small, I believe 
 contained some inhabitants,) threw them away, 
 and put on my new suit. He then tied me up, 
 some bread and cheese, in a handkerchief, to 
 carry in my hand, to bite at, by the way, for 
 he said, I had better not call by the way, any 
 more than was absolutely necessary, as they 
 had an abundance of Tories, Horse theives, 
 &c, and I should be in great danger of being 
 taken up, and carried back. All this frightened 
 me to such a degree, that my strength never 
 forsook me again till I got it recruited with 
 food. He then gave me two dollars in money, 
 and offered me a horse and a boy, to carry me 
 on to his sons house. This I refused, for 
 strange as it my appear, after all this kindness, 
 I could not get entirely clear of the fright he 
 had first given me, and I felt very anxious to 
 be on my way, so as to get a little farther from 
 the Enemy's lines. I therefore proceeded on 
 as fast as possible, and did not forget to call at 
 his sons, where I got some more food, and a 
 line to the next Justice of the Peace, for a pass, 
 and recommendation for Charity in the way of 
 food. I then proceeded— obtained my Pass and 
 
 42 
 
then travelled on — keeping the Highway, and 
 carrying a substancial Hickory Cane, or Club, 
 for my staff, meaning to use it if I was seriously 
 interrupted. 
 
 Several people, in the course of the after- 
 noon. Enquired, where I came from. But my 
 answers would be but little, choosing to keep 
 steadily along, till towards night, when I fell 
 in with two men, who seemed to be very in- 
 quisitive. One, in particular, who appeared to 
 be chief spokesman, and kept nearest to me. 
 The other kept a little in the rear. The one 
 nearest me, kept pretty Close to me, and 
 was very inquisitive. Wanted to know from 
 whence I came, and where I was going. At 
 length I gave him the whole history — where I 
 was from — how I had been taken — how I had 
 made my Escape, — Where I was going &c. and 
 that I wanted to get to the American Guard, 
 as quick as possible He said he was going 
 that way, and he would accompany me, but 
 the best way, was to go across lots. Accord- 
 ingly, we got over the fence, and went but a 
 little way, (there being no path) I told him, 
 that as my feet were so sore, I had rather keep 
 the Road. So I turned about and again took 
 the Highway. He observed that as I was a 
 stranger, he would be my Company round. 
 
 43 
 
This however, did not please me, as I had much 
 rather be alone, for then I felt more safe, and 
 Especially as I began to have some suspicion 
 of him, and his Companion. 
 
 After gaining the Highway, we walked on 
 together, the Stranger at my left hand and my 
 staff in my right hand, and his companion 
 keeping a little in the rear. We had not gone 
 far, before the One nearest me, wished me to 
 let him have my Staff. On my refusal, he told 
 me, he must take me up, and that I must go no 
 farther, and on my Stepping a little farther off, 
 he caught a stake out of the fence as handily 
 it appeared to me, as if it had been put there 
 on purpose, and ordered me to stop, or, he 
 would knock me down. The other man (his 
 companion,) singing out to him all the while 
 ''Knock him down! Knock him down!" In 
 such a situation, there was no time to be lost, 
 and I being out of the reach of his Stake, Set 
 off, at full speed, and they, both of them, after 
 me. One crying out. Stop! or, I'll knock you 
 down; the other saying Knock him down; 
 Knock him down. I did not run far, before 
 I looked round, and found that I had left 
 them far in the rear, and being on a high 
 spot of land, I looked ahead, where was a 
 large spacious valley, with a thicket or Swamp, 
 
 44 
 
about in the middle of it, and beyond it a 
 large Spot of woods. To this Swamp, I now 
 directed my course, thinking I would pass 
 directly through it, and pass the night in the 
 woods beyond. Accordingly I entered the 
 swamp, but soon found it necessary to stop in 
 order to rest and get breath. After getting a 
 little rested, I pursued my course through, and 
 on coming out on the other side, I found my- 
 self coming into a strip of cleared land. I im- 
 mediately thought it possible, that my pursuers, 
 might go round the swamp, while I was rest- 
 ing, as they could plainly see where I went, 
 and way lay me on my coming out. 
 
 I therefore came out very still, looking care- 
 fully Each way, to see if I could discover them. 
 At length, I saw them, standing still, by the side 
 of the swamp, a listening. 
 
 I immediately turned right about — Went 
 back — and out of the swamp at the same place 
 at which I came in, and travelled on, and 
 arrived at the American Guard, that night, 
 where I tarried till next morning, and then set 
 out, and travelled on to the North, towards 
 Kings ferry (as I think it was called) where I 
 crossed the North River, and after this trav- 
 elled on unmolested, till I arrived at home, — or 
 at My Uncle Stevens's as I had no other home. 
 
 45 
 
My friends, on my arrival, appeared almost 
 as much surprised, as if one had rose from the 
 dead, as they supposed my Escape to be next 
 to, utterly impossible. 
 
 In all my way, after leaving the American 
 Guard, I was fully supplied with food, by the 
 Charity of the people on the Road. Sometimes 
 I would Eat two or three times before noon, as 
 the people would meet me on the Road, or see 
 me from their houses, and on Enquiring who I 
 was — where from — &c, would immediately in- 
 vite me in to the House, to Eat and to drink, 
 so that I never begged at all. Having money 
 in my pocket, I would call at the tavern, when 
 necessary, for what I wanted, and before I had 
 finished my meal, they would Enquire out my 
 History, and this would satisfy them, so that 
 they would not take any pay. So that I never 
 spent any of the money which my good friend, 
 the Dutchman, gave me. Except what I paid 
 for my ferryiage at Stratford Ferry, over the 
 Houstonic River. This Dutch friend's name 
 was Oliver Bontz, and this friend, I have much 
 wanted to see, ever since, and have many 
 times Contemplated a Journey, on purpose, 
 although I cannot now, at this long period 
 (about 40 years) Ever Expect to see him any 
 more in this world, as he must have long since 
 
 46 
 
been in his grave. Yet I do hope he is now 
 in possession of a more peaceful, and happy 
 mansion, than the one, in which, he so kindly 
 entertained Me, while in this world. 
 
 After getting safely home from this haz- 
 ardous cruise, and having some time for reflec- 
 tion, I began to take a retrospective view, of 
 my life, and Employments thus far, and par- 
 ticularly, of the business of privateering, in 
 which I had been considerably Engaged. After 
 recollecting how I had seen the Boats go from 
 the Privateer to which I belonged, on board of 
 Neutral Vessels, and plunder them, under false 
 colors, and other outrageous acts, — I came to 
 the conclusion, that Privateering, was nothing 
 better than Highway Robbery, under the Pro- 
 tection of Law, and that forcibly taking the 
 property of peaceable, unoffending Citizens, 
 and squandering it away, (as is usually done, 
 by Privateers men,) is worse than lost to the 
 whole Community, and cannot be justified, in 
 a moral point of View, and as I had, in some 
 good degree. Escaped the Neutral Effects of 
 such a calling, I came to the determination to 
 follow it no more, but to follow the sea, in the 
 Merchant service, and only to act on the de- 
 fensive, if use was to be made of Weapons, at all. 
 
 It now occurred to my mind, that I had not 
 
 47 
 
had the small pox. I therefore thought it best 
 for me, to have it, by Innoculation, and there 
 being no place at that time near home, where 
 I could have it, I therefore set off alone, — Went 
 to Killingsworth, where I supposed, there was 
 a Pock House, on Duck Island. 
 
 But when I came there I found, that the 
 House had lately been burnt by the Refugees. 
 But they had Erected a new house, for the 
 same purpose. North of the Main Road, — back 
 in the Woods, and that it was nearly com- 
 pleted. Doc Ely, who was the Physician, 
 took me into his own house, and innoculated 
 me, together with one other young man, who 
 came just at this time, and, for the same pur- 
 pose. I told the Doct. that if I did not have 
 more pock, than some had, I should not be at 
 all satisfy'd, as to my safety from, the disease. 
 He then looked at me, with a smiling counte- 
 nance and said, — He would venture to insure 
 me that I should be satisfied on that part, 
 before I got through. We staid at his house 
 until we began to have the symptoms. We 
 then went into the new Pock House with an 
 Old Lady for our nurse. 
 
 The first symptom which I felt, was a 
 sore Throat, and this continued very severe, 
 throughout the whole time, my mouth, and 
 
 48 
 
throat, being full of Pock, and also my whole 
 body, Especially my face, which was so full, 
 and so Swollen, that I could not see. The Pock 
 was very large and full, but at this time, I had 
 to be considerably worried by the Doctors 
 making the Enquiry, Every time he came in, — 
 Whether I was satisfied that I had, or should 
 have Pock Enough. The other young man 
 had only two or three Pock, and they so small 
 as hardly to be seen. 
 
 If I had, had no more appearance of Small 
 Pox, and we having been in a House, where 
 there was no infection, I should not have felt 
 satisfied. And this is not to be wondered at, 
 as but a little before, there was a number of 
 my neighbors who were innoculated, and went 
 through a sort of process — pronounced safe by 
 the Doctor, — came home — and in a few days, 
 were taken down with Small Pox, the natural 
 way, and came very near losing their lives. 
 But I had now, got safely through, and was 
 glad, I had, had it hard, since I had got 
 through with the pain and soreness, so that I 
 set out for home, and arrived in Safety, at my 
 Uncle Stevens's where I remained at work 
 with him some time. 
 
 At length, although I had become sick of a 
 Soldier's life, yet, as there was a Company of 
 
 49 
 
Artillery, raised in New Haven, under the 
 command of Capt. Bradley, which was to be 
 stationed in, and about New Haven, for the 
 defence of the town, and thinking that this 
 duty would be rather easier, than it had been, 
 in some former Campaigns, I therefore En- 
 listed in this Company about the first of March 
 1779 and remained in the Same for about eight 
 months. My place of service, was my native 
 Village (West Haven) under the immediate 
 Command of Lieut. Azil Himberly, the Com- 
 pany being divided into three divisions. One 
 on the East Haven side of the Harbor, one 
 on West Haven side, and the other in New 
 Haven. While I was serving in this Company 
 the Enemy made a visit to New Haven, and 
 landed on the Old Field Shore. The night, 
 that they came, it happened to be my tour of 
 duty, on Guard, at the House, then owned by 
 Dea. Josiah Piatt. Now the Property and resi- 
 dence of Mr. Wilmot. Not far from midnight 
 we had news, that a large fleet of the Enemy's 
 ships, were in the sound, and it was thought 
 they were destined for New Haven. Soon, 
 myself, and some others of the Guard, Extended 
 our walk, down to Clarke's Point. 
 
 After staying there some time, (it being a 
 star light night,) we discovered the fleet stand- 
 
 50 
 
ing in to the Eastward Close in to the shore, — 
 with a light breeze of wind, off the land. We 
 followed them along, to the Eastward, watch- 
 ing their maneuvers, till the came to an 
 anchor, off the Old Field Shore, a little before 
 day. I then hastened up to my Uncle Stevens's 
 to inform them of the impending danger, but 
 they were Extremely incredulous, and were 
 not willing nor disposed to believe there was 
 much of any danger, as they had so often, been 
 anchoring along Shore, and causing frequent, 
 and unnecessary alarms. I told them, that 
 they must be up very soon, and get their break- 
 fast, if they meant to have it at home, in peace, 
 and I should and did advise them, to pack up, 
 and hide some of their Valuable, and handy 
 articles of Clothing &c. for fear of the Worst. 
 As I intended to try to save what little Clothing 
 I had. I then tied up my few clothes in a Hand- 
 kerchief, carried them out, and buried them. 
 Then mustered up what amunition I had, 
 Crossed into the other Street, where myself, 
 and about three others, obtained liberty of our 
 Officer to go down, and watch the Enemy's 
 landing. We then went to the Old Field 
 Shore, where we waited until the Sun rose, 
 when a Gun was fired from the Commodore, 
 as a signal for landing. 
 
 51 
 
Instantly a string of boats was seen, dropping 
 astern of every transport ship, full of soldiers, 
 and pulled directly for the shore, about the 
 middle of the Old Field. It was near high 
 water, and a full tide, so the Boats could come 
 plump up to the Beach. And as soon as they 
 came within point Blank Shot, we fired into 
 them, and continued the fire, until they began 
 to land within a few yards of us, when I 
 thought it was time Either to retreat, or to 
 resign, and beg for quarters, rather than to 
 run the risk of crossing over the plain Open 
 Field, under the shower of Shot, which I knew 
 must soon follow me. And I should have pre- 
 ferred the latter, and gone to prison, but I well 
 knew, that after we had been so foolish and 
 imprudent as to come and fire a few shots, at 
 an army of men, all huddled in their boats, 
 without any possibility of answering any other 
 purpose, than killing, and wounding a few 
 individuals, I felt very sure, that I should 
 be immediately cut to pieces, and perhaps 
 deservingly so. 
 
 There was therefore no other alternative 
 but. Run, and abide the Consequences. I 
 therefore instantly started across the field, at 
 the hight of my speed, and the bullets after 
 me, like a shower of hail, which seemed to 
 
 52 
 
prostrate all the grass around me. But fortu- 
 nately I escaped, unhurt, and retreated to 
 another good stand, on the Rock pasture, and 
 waited the approach of the flank guard. Then, 
 I would fire a few shots, and retreat to another 
 ambush, and fire a few more shots, and again 
 retreat and so I continued to do, until I had 
 got nearly up to the Milford turn pike Road, 
 where there was an adjutant of the Enemy 
 killed and left behind. By this time the main 
 body of the Enemy, which kept the main road, 
 had passed up through Allentown, on their 
 way to Thompson's bridge on the Derby 
 road. Our people had got some field pieces, 
 on the East side of the ^A/'est bridge, in order 
 to take the Causeway, but it being supposed 
 by the Enemy that the bridge was blown up, 
 (which was attempted) was the reason of their 
 taking the upper rout to the Derby road. The 
 Company to which I belonged, having passed 
 into New Haven, and up to neck Bridge, I 
 thought not best to pursue after them, to join 
 them. I therefore, returned back to West 
 Haven. The Enemy staid over the night in 
 New Haven, doing much damage by plunder- 
 ing, but Early the next day, they crossed over 
 to East Haven — burnt one or two houses, soon 
 after they got over, — marched down to Moriss's 
 
 53 
 
Cove, — burnt his House, — and then Embarked 
 on board the fleet, which then got under way, 
 and proceeded to the Westward. They landed 
 at Fairfield, and Norwalk, — burnt both places, 
 and then returned to New York. — On the First 
 day of their landing in West Haven, we lost 
 Jeduthan Thompson, who was one of our Com- 
 pany. He was killed in New Haven, at the 
 corner of George and York Street at the South 
 West Corner, of the original town Square. 
 
 I served in this Company, till the latter part 
 of October. I then obtained my discharge, 
 and then took my pack at my back in company 
 with my neighbor (Ebenezer Thompson) and 
 travelled off to the Eastward, to look for a 
 likely substantial, good sailing vessel, to get a 
 voyage in, as there was none in New Haven 
 at that time. 
 
 We travelled as far as New London, but 
 found none there that suited, and from thence 
 to Providence, but found none there. Then to 
 Newbury-Port, where we Entered on board 
 the Brig Marquis, Seth Thomas (one of our old 
 neighbors Commander). W^e soon sailed, bound 
 for Point Petre, in the Island of Guadaloupe. 
 
 Arrived safe, — discharged our Cargo, — loaded 
 for home and sailed in company with two letters 
 of Marque Ships, bound for Newbury port. We 
 
 54 
 
undertook to beat up the passage, between 
 Grantere, and Marigalante, in order to come 
 to the Windward of the Islands, thinking that 
 to be the most safe, and free from Privateers. 
 
 But the Ships, being dull sailers, and could 
 not beat up they therefore bore away for 
 the leeward passage. We in order to have 
 the benefit of their protection, kept them 
 Company. 
 
 We ran down, and came through, between 
 Porto Rico, and St. Domingo. When we got 
 on the American Coast, we left our Convey, 
 and met the Cold, and memorable Winter, of 
 the year 1780. But by coming through the 
 leeward passage, we were well on the Western 
 Shore, which was, finally, the whole means of 
 our ever getting in, for, in about the Latitude 
 of 31 degrees we took the wind at North West, 
 and Extreme Cold. The Wind stood between 
 West, North West and North the whole time, 
 until we got in. Except about 12 hours, when 
 it hauled round at East. In about 26 days 
 after getting on the Coast, in the month of 
 February, we made the land not far from 
 Penobscot. Got in under the main land, and 
 taking the wind at about north, worked along 
 shore, and arrived, most joyfully, at our de- 
 sired Haven, Newbury port. Where, for two 
 
 55 
 
weeks, I took full one years Comfort, over 
 my Landlords Greenleafs fire side. 
 
 When I entered on Board the Brig, I was a 
 raw hand, and having never before, sailed on 
 board of a merchant Vessel, and knowing 
 nothing of Seamen Ship, I made no agreement 
 as to wages, only this, Viz., To receive what I 
 am worth. On settlement however, they paid 
 me, as much as any one, on board. 
 
 After getting and recruited. We again took 
 our packs at our backs, and returned home, in 
 the month of March. The snow, was then, 
 generally, about Even with the tops of the 
 fences Everywhere, and all the Harbors closed, 
 with very thick Ice. 
 
 This has, up to this time 1836, been con- 
 sidered, by all those, that saw, and felt the 
 severity of it, as the most severe Winter, within 
 the memory of Man. 
 
 After being at home sometime, I Entered on 
 board, the letter of Marque Brig, Firebrand, 
 of 10 Guns, Amariah Jocelyn, Commander, 
 belonging to New Haven, and sailed, bound 
 on a Voyage to Cape Francois, in the Island 
 of St. Domingo or Hispaniola. Arrived safe, 
 and on our return home, sailed in Company 
 with a fleet of French men of W^ar, and 
 Merchant Men, of about 100 sail. We parted 
 
 56 
 
with them a little south of Bermuda, their 
 course being too much Easterly for us. 
 
 We arrived safe in New Haven, but I soon 
 Entered for another Voyage, on board the 
 same Vessel, and sailed, bound for Grenada. 
 While going down Sound, and out through 
 the race, in the night, while the British fleet 
 were lying in Gardener's Bay, and having got 
 out near Montauk Point, at daylight in the 
 morning, we discovered an Enemy's frigate, 
 just ahead, and partly under the Lee. We 
 immediately hove about to the Northward, 
 with the Wind at North West, and found that 
 our vessel could look up for the East End of 
 Fisher's Island. At the same time the frigate 
 hove about also, which kept her close under 
 our Lee, which prevented us, from running 
 into Stonington. We therefore had it tack 
 and tack, with our Enemy, within almost, 
 point Blank shot of us, until we could weather 
 the West End of Fisher's Island and so 
 Escaped into New London. There we lay, 
 until an opportunity offered for us, to slip out 
 in the night, which we did, and made our 
 passage safe out, to Grenada. After the busi- 
 ness of the Voyage was transacted, we sailed 
 for home, and stood to the Northward for 
 Porto Rico passage, but by some careless 
 
 57 
 
manouvering we ran by the passage, and 
 down the Island of St. Domingo, or Hispaniola, 
 in the day time, and lying too by night, for 
 three days in succession. At length finding 
 out our mistake, (and a sad one too) We 
 hauled our Wind, and went to beating back 
 for the passage, which took 22 days. This 
 made us very short of Provisions and Water, 
 and we went immediately on short Allowance 
 of both. But having a good passage, from 
 there, home, we made out to live, although, 
 we had our last provisions in the cooking, 
 when we were in the race, off New London. 
 W^e finally arrived, safely, and joyfully into 
 New Haven, and saluted the inhabitants, with 
 two of our broadsides in the Harbor. 
 
 After remaining at home, and working at 
 Shoes &c., with my Uncle Stevens, for a short 
 time, as usual, I engaged for a Voyage, on 
 board the Sloop Rising Sun in the capacity of 
 Mate, Wm. Punchard, Master, and bound for 
 the West Indies. W^e proceeded safely on 
 our Voyage, until we were near the Islands, 
 when we fell in with the Regulator, a British 
 Sloop of War, which captured us, and carried 
 us into Tortolee. There being no Prison, or 
 Prison Ship, in this place, we were not con- 
 fined, and I remained on Board, to assist in 
 
 58 
 
discharging the Cargo, by which means, I con- 
 trived to save, a part of my adventure, as that, 
 was not in the Invoice of Cargo. After dis- 
 charging the Cargo, they gave me liberty, to 
 go where I pleased, and I soon got a passage 
 over to St. Croix, and from there, I took passage 
 for New Haven, on board the Sloop Patty, 
 Major Lines, Master. At this time, the Amer- 
 ican Flag, was not allowed to be hoisted, in a 
 Danish Port. After Capt. Lines had completed 
 his business, we got under way for home, and 
 Capt. Lines, being a high Liberty man, as was 
 also John Conner, a Planter, who lived at the 
 north west point of the Bay, at West End, — 
 and Capt. Lines, feeling pretty rich and merry, 
 as soon as he got out to the Point, hoisted the 
 American Stripes, and fired a Salute, to honnor 
 his friend Conner. A Danish frigate, was then 
 lying in the Harbor of W^est End. Her Barge 
 was soon manned, and came out after us. It 
 being nearly Calm, she soon came up with us, 
 when Capt. Lines hailed her, and ordered them 
 to keep off. But they came on after us, when 
 several swivels were fired into her from our 
 Vessel. She then tacked and went back. 
 
 I Expected, if there should be a breeze, that 
 the Frigate would be out after us, and if taken, 
 we should probably be hanged, for firing on 
 
 59 
 
the King's boat. But, fortunately there was a 
 light Breeze, and by that means, we made our 
 Escape. This, however, was a great damage 
 to Capt. Lines, as he never dare go to that 
 place again. 
 
 We arrived in Safety at New Haven, and 
 after some time, Capt. Punchard's friend pro- 
 cured him, another, fine new Sloop, built at the 
 same place, as the other. 
 
 We had two small carriage Guns, and about 
 a dozen muskets, and when we were loading 
 away, there were two Brigs the Hetty, Capt. 
 David Phipps, and the Eunice, Capt. Ebenezer 
 Peck, both well armed, and several other 
 Vessels, fitting away. Calculating to keep 
 Company, down sound at least. Our Sloop 
 was lying on the West side of the Pier, and 
 all nearly ready for Sea. One afternoon, the 
 Captain being on Shore, it came into my head, 
 (I knew not for why as I had no fears of the 
 Enemy,) to get up the muskets, rub the rust 
 off from the Locks, — oil them, — put Flints in 
 them, — load every one, — and laid them, side 
 by side, on the bundles of hay, which were 
 stowed on the quarter Deck. Then I covered 
 them up, with the Turpolin, and when I went 
 below, set a watch, to look out for the Captain, 
 if he should come off. After going below, and 
 
 60 
 
I- ob 
 
 li_ »- 
 
 O h 
 
 LU O 
 S < 
 
 z 
 < 
 
 UJ 
 
 o 
 < 
 
 _l 
 
 0. 
 
 I 
 h- 
 cc 
 
turning in, I tryed to get to sleep, — but could 
 not, — and therefore lay, — sleepless, — until about 
 midnight, — When I heard one of the raw hands, 
 on deck, singing out, in an uncouth manner ! 
 A ho! the boat, A ho. I at first thought he 
 was doing this to amuse himself, and to learn 
 how, to hail. But I soon, became tired of his 
 noise, and thought perhaps there might be a boat 
 coming off to some of the Vessels, and if so they 
 ought, at least to answer, it being War time. 
 
 I therefore, immediately, sprang up, on the 
 quarter Deck, and looked towards the Wharf, 
 and saw, as it appeared to me, a small boat, 
 with her head towards us, lying Entirely still. 
 I immediately hailed ! but received no answer. 
 Instantly I hailed again ! ! but no answer ! ! ! I 
 then removed the Turpolin, took up a musket 
 and fired at them, — threw that down, and up 
 with another, and so kept on firing, which I 
 could do very fast. I soon began to get an 
 answer, saying, don't fire, don't fire! for we 
 are friends. I replied, if you are friends, that 
 you better be off, instantly, for we want no 
 friends here at this time of night. They im- 
 mediately laid their Boat round, down the 
 Harbor, and sprung upon their Oars. I then 
 discovered that it was a large Whale Boat, 
 full of men. 
 
 6i 
 
By this time, the people on board the Brig 
 Hetty which lay on the East side of the Pier, 
 mustered out, and discovered another Boat 
 East of the Pier, and they got one of their Bow 
 Guns rigged out, and fired after them, as they 
 rowed down the Harbor. 
 
 This occurrence however was not thought 
 much of, at the time. For myself, I thought 
 likely, that they might be trading boats, to 
 Long Island, as there was, at that time, a great 
 deal done, at that business. 
 
 Sometime after the War was over, I was 
 on a Voyage, to the West Indies, and had a 
 man with me, by the name of Dyer Cook, who 
 belonged to New Haven, but had been with the 
 refugees, at Loyd's neck, most of the revolu- 
 tionary War. 
 
 I heard him, relating over his adventures, 
 and manouvers in the W^ar. 
 
 Among the rest, he related this very cruise 
 of his, in the Whaleboats, and their reception, 
 almost Exactly as I have stated above. After 
 this I conversed with him about it, and he told 
 me, who was in the boat, and that they had 
 been secreted in, or near New Haven, several 
 days, waiting for the Vessels to complete their 
 loading. And, that when they left the Shore, 
 they were offered a large price, for a share of 
 
 62 
 
the prize money, and that it was only owing to 
 the Cowardice of their Capt. that they did not 
 take us. In this, he was correct. For had they 
 not stopped to hear the raw hand hail, they 
 might have stepped on Board, and have taken 
 charge, before I should have been on deck, to 
 make any Alarm. They then could have 
 walked across the Pier, and stepped on Board 
 the Brig Hetty, and took quiet possession, as 
 their people, who were on board, were all be- 
 low. Then cut the Vessels fasts, and with a 
 fair wind, and tide, have sailed directly, and 
 Easily for Loyd's neck. So that it seems very 
 certain, that we Escaped, only in Consequence 
 of my Cleaning the muskets, — loading them, — 
 and placing them in just the posture which I 
 did, and then, not being able to get to sleep, 
 when I went below. 
 
 After we had completed our preparations for 
 the Voyage, we sailed in Company with the 
 other Vessels — kept Company a few days, and 
 then separated, and arrived safe, at the Island 
 of St. Kitts, and after our business was finished, 
 sailed for home, and had got so far on the 
 Winters coast, that I thought, I might, almost 
 safely, reckon up, what I should make, by the 
 Voyage. Which I did, one Evening and 
 Enjoyed my next watch below. Very much, 
 
 63 
 
in prospect of the profits of the Voyage. 
 
 But the next morning, my prospects were 
 gloomy Enough, for as soon as it was Cleverly 
 light, we made a ship to Windward, not far 
 off, which, gave us Chase. We immediately 
 crowded all Sail, with a fresh breeze, and went 
 to lightening our Sloop, by heaving the Salt 
 overboard. She appeared to gain upon us, but 
 a very little, but this little, in the course of a 
 whole day, amounted to considerable, so much 
 that it brought her up with us before night. She 
 proved to be his Majesty's Ship, the Albicore, 
 of 28 Guns. We were taken on Board, and had 
 a new ship for our money, and a berth in the 
 Cable tier. The next day, we were mustered 
 on the quarter deck, and our baggage over 
 hauled. I had from thirty to forty dollars worth 
 of dry Goods, and notions, but the Captain, 
 very kindly told me, to keep it, and take good 
 care, that the Sailors did not steal it from me. 
 I then Expected, as soon as we got into New 
 York, to go on board the Prison Ship, and then 
 I should stand in need of a little money. I 
 therefore, sold out about all my nick nacks, to 
 the Sailors. After a few days, we arrived, at 
 Sandy Hook, and came to an Anchor. 
 
 The wind, Coming out, at, north West, a 
 heavy Gale, the Ship, dragged her Anchors, 
 
 64 
 
and the appearance was that we should go on 
 Shore. I then began to hope that I should 
 Escape the Prison Ship, but they kept paying 
 out Cable and letting go Anchors, till she 
 brought up, and rode out the Gale. The next 
 day, we went up to New York, and anchored 
 in the East river, and we remained on board, 
 all night, but Expected next morning to take 
 our station, on board the Old Jersey Prison 
 Ship, lying at the Walabout, where the Navy 
 Yard, now is. I walked the deck, some part 
 of the night, and thought, how wonderfully I 
 had once Escaped by swimming, and would 
 then almost determine to get overboard, and 
 try it again, notwithstanding it was about 
 Christmas, and very cold, and the tide running 
 four or five miles an hour. I knew, therefore, 
 that it must be certain death, to get into the 
 water, so I did not attempt it, although I had 
 to strive very hard, to keep from it. At length 
 morning came, and we were mustered up, 
 with our baggage and into the Boat, and set 
 out for the Walabout. 
 
 We rowed up the East River, and when we 
 came up abreast of the high bluff, on Long 
 Island side, (as it then was) the Old Jersey, 
 Prison Ship, hove in sight, and also the Boat 
 from the Prison Ship, burying the dead, (which 
 
 65 
 
had died that night, on board of her,) in the 
 Sand Bank. This bluff, or bank, I suppose is 
 now nearly gone, as I have heard, that many 
 of the bones have been collected, and buried. 
 We were soon alongside the Old Jersey, and 
 were safely lodged on board, Where, I found 
 two of my old neighbors, Benjamin, and 
 Joseph Smith. This seemed for the moment, to 
 revive my drooping Spirits and to bring to 
 mind, the old saying, that misery loves com- 
 pany. 
 
 I however, had their Company, but a little 
 while, as they were soon sent off, in a Cartel, 
 and Exchanged. There was now, no hope of 
 my Escape for this winter, if Ever, alive. The 
 only way, therefore, was to be content, and 
 Endeavor to make my situation, as comfortable 
 as possible, and having some money, and a 
 situation in the Gun Room, (a place oft 
 assigned to masters and Mates of Vessels,) I 
 became quite satisfied of necessity, there being 
 no possibility of Escape, by swimming, or, in 
 any other way. In justice to our enemies, I 
 must say, that they tryd to make us as com- 
 fortable, as possible, on Prisoner's allowance. 
 They gave us good provisions, only. Prisoner's 
 Allowance, was rather scant. 
 
 They Cleansed the Ship often, and appeared 
 
 66 
 
to try to accommodate, what they could, with 
 safety. 
 
 But it is impossible, where such a number 
 of men have to be confined, and shut up 
 together, over night, to keep them clean, and 
 healthy. Situated thus, I became quite con- 
 tented, being shut out, from all hope of Escape, 
 and could live quite comfortably, by the help 
 of a trifle of money, in addition to the Allow- 
 ance. 
 
 One occurrence, here took place, perhaps 
 worth mentioning, to show how foolish people 
 can act, when they in a great measure, lose 
 their reason, by passion, or otherwise. 
 
 As I was walking one day on the upper deck, 
 after there had been a damp fall of snow, I 
 received a snow ball, on the side of my neck, 
 from some one. I looked around, — saw nobody 
 Engaged in snow balling, or any thing of the 
 kind. I therefore took this, as an insult. 
 Besides, it was quite inconvenient, as it filled 
 my neck full of Wet and it put me quite out of 
 humour, so much so, that I was determined to 
 continue walking there, and receive their snow 
 balls, until I could find them out, and Chastise 
 them. So I continued my walk, and the snow 
 balls would continue to come, Every now and 
 then. At last, I cast my Eye up to the fore 
 
 67 
 
Castle where some of the Prisoners were walk- 
 ing fore, and aft, and just at the time that I 
 looked. One, who had come to the End of his 
 walk just at that time, with his hand behind 
 him, in which was a snow ball. As he did not 
 choose to throw, when I was looking at him, 
 he had to turn round, and (like a little boy) 
 forgot to shift his hand from behind, and by 
 this means, showed me his snow ball. This 
 was Enough to show me the rogue, or One of 
 them at least. I pursued him on to the fore 
 Castle, through the Crowd, keeping my Eyes 
 Steadfastly upon him, until I came up with 
 him, and without a word said, I gave him one 
 blow, and then another, which sent him down 
 into the galley, among the Cooks. I then went 
 my way, and saw nothing more of him, until 
 sometime after while sitting in the gun room, 
 some person with a Irish brogue, came to me 
 and asked me. If I had not struck him. I told 
 him I did not know that I had struck him, but 
 that I knew, I had struck somebody. He re- 
 plied, that it was him and that he wanted 
 satisfaction. I told him to take it just as soon 
 as he pleased. He said that this was no place. 
 He wanted me to go out between decks, and I 
 like a foolish booby, followed him out between 
 decks, and Capt. Ward Atwater, (like another 
 
 68 
 
fool) followed me out, to see fair play. 
 
 When I got out between decks, he, had got 
 his shirt nearly off, and as this appeared to be 
 the fashion, I undertook to get mine off. While 
 doing this I received several blows. 
 
 After I was clear of my shirt, I received no 
 blows from my antagonist, but warded them 
 all off, and returned them with double interest, 
 until he disappeared among the crowd. But on 
 looking around, I saw several others, a strip- 
 ping. I therefore thought it best for me, to 
 make my Escape, and not undertake to fight 
 a whole privateers Crew. I then crept through 
 the crowd, into the Gun room, without show- 
 ing any marks of the Contest, having received, 
 what blows were given me on my head. Capt. 
 Atwater, fared a good deal worse, and got con- 
 siderably bruised. This is the only time, that 
 I ever Engaged in a fist fight, and I never 
 could have done it, more foolishly. 
 
 I now remained on board of this floating 
 prison, about two months, without any pros- 
 pect of Escape. But unexpectedly Mr. Elias 
 Shipman, made his appearance on board, and 
 said that he had come down, hoping to get 
 some of us paroled, and that he had, had some 
 encouragement, and that we should hear from 
 him again, in a few days. Now, Hope, Joy, 
 
 69 
 
and Fear, were all at once, greatly Excited, 
 and I anxiously kept a look out for Every boat, 
 which came in sight, at the same time tremb- 
 ling, for fear of the result of his Exertions. 
 At length, Mr. Shipman appeared, and had got 
 permission to take out, four , and, my name, 
 was among the number. We went over into 
 the city, to the proper Officer, and obtained our 
 Paroles, with liberty, to return by the way of 
 Long Island, home. I then went into a store, 
 and bought me some cloth, for a suit of clothes, 
 from the money which I had left. Then crossed 
 the Ferry to Brooklyn, and travelled down the 
 Island to Loyd's neck, where, I found, plenty 
 of my old neighbors, who were refugees. Here 
 I was kindly Entertained, several days, wait- 
 ing an opportunity to get on to the main, or 
 (Connecticut side). At length I found a pas- 
 sage and arrived safe, once more, at my 
 native Village, and although yet a prisoner, 
 and on my parole of honor, and bound to return 
 when called for, which I meant, punctually to 
 fulfil. Even if I must again go on board, the Old 
 Jersey, Prison Ship. Of this, however, there 
 was no necessity, as the news of peace, arrived 
 in the Spring, when all the Prisoners were set 
 at Liberty, after a Sanguinary War, of about 
 seven years. 
 
 70 
 
At the commencement of this War I was 
 fifteen years of age, and, at sixteen, (as soon as 
 they would take me for a Soldier) I entered, 
 and continued in it, Either by land, or Sea, a 
 considerable part of the time, while it lasted, 
 as will be seen, by the preceding narrative. 
 And when I review the hardships, through 
 which I have passed, by being a prisoner, three 
 times, in the course of the revolutionary War, 
 the dangers through which I have passed, 
 and the risks which I have run, an Espe- 
 cially that, in making my Escape from the 
 Prison Ship, I am astonished, that I am 
 alive. And it must always remain, a Com- 
 plete mystery, to me, how I could have 
 strength to swim the North River, after having 
 been without food from four to five days. And 
 then, after I had got over, and rested, to feel 
 more strong and active, than Ever before in 
 my life, (which was really the case, and not 
 imagination only), and, that this strength, 
 would not forsake me while danger lasted, but 
 when danger was Over, that it would forsake 
 me, like Samson's when his locks were shorn. 
 Or, like a sick, feeble. Emaciated person, in a 
 State of delirium, after his reason is restored. 
 All this, is truly mysterious to me. 
 
 But my unalterable determination was to 
 
 71 
 
make my Escape, at all hazards. And, being 
 divested of all fear, I suppose, added much to 
 my Strength. 
 
 And now, when I think over these past 
 Events, and transactions, they appear more 
 like dreams, than realities. And I should almost 
 doubt, the truth of my own narrative, had there 
 not been, such an abundance of living testimony 
 at the time, and for many years after, of the 
 facts, which I have herein stated. But, after 
 all I have said of my own Exertions, yet I 
 have only to say, that I ascribe my miraculous 
 preservation, through all the dangers of life, to 
 the kind care, and protection of my Heavenly 
 Father, who when my Earthly Parents had 
 forsaken me, took me up, and preserved me, 
 through all the perils, and dangers of a long 
 life, with uninterrupted health. Even to Old 
 Age. And, methinks, that my present wish is, 
 that my short remaining time may be spent 
 more in his service, than it has Ever yet 
 been. 
 
 The War now being Ended, the Sword 
 returned to its Scabbard, the Arms, and muni- 
 tions of War, laid up in the Arsenal, and the 
 Cares and occupations of peace resumed, I 
 Entered on board the Ship Montgomery, Israel 
 Bishop Master, bound for the West Indies. 
 
 72 
 
Sailed and arrived safe, at the Island of 
 Grenada, transacted the business of our 
 Voyage out, and returned home in safety. 
 After this I went to work at a new Sloop, 
 which was then building, on the west side of 
 Candee's Rocks, (in the Round hole lot, so 
 called) and launched into the Cove River. She 
 was about loo tons Burthen, and called the 
 Hannah, of which I was Master. She was 
 finished, — launched, — and finally, with much 
 difficulty, got out of the River, and brought 
 around to the West Haven Shore, rigged, — 
 and then, in the month of December, taken up to 
 New Haven, and anchored a little north of the 
 Pier. But, as we had no bedding, or any other 
 accommodations, on board of her, we went on 
 Shore, at New Haven to sleep. In the night, 
 it came on to snow, and blow very heavy, at 
 about North, by West. I lay very restless, the 
 latter part of the night. As soon as it was day, 
 I arose, and the people with me, and went 
 down to the Wharf, the Snow beginning to 
 cease. I could not see the Sloop where we had 
 left her. But as it cleared away, we could see 
 down the harbor, and could discover one 
 Vessel, and another, which had drifted down, 
 but nothing of our Sloop could be seen, not 
 even after we could see well into the Sound. 
 
 73 
 
So we got into the boat, with heavy hearts, to 
 run down to West Haven. 
 
 After rowing down to the Oyster Point, we 
 discovered a vessel, lying ashore, down 
 towards the neck Point. But I took little 
 Encouragement from this, as there was a small 
 sloop, lying at anchor, off West Haven Wharf, 
 the day before, and I supposed this must be 
 the same. But when we came near. We to 
 our great Joy, found it to be our own sloop. 
 Capt. Wells, in a Coaster, had, in the night, 
 drifted foul of our Sloop, and Cut her Cable, 
 and taken the End on board of his own Vessel 
 and so rode out the Gale. But this seemed but 
 a very trifling matter, since I had found the 
 Sloop. 
 
 After this, we soon got the Sloop off, loaded, 
 and sailed for the West Indies, in the month 
 of January, and arrived safe in Martinico. 
 Then sold my Cargo, sailed for St. Martins, 
 took in Salt, and arrived in the month of 
 March. Staid at home a short time, — then 
 loaded again for the W^est Indies, and got 
 ready to sail. I was then taken sick, with the 
 Fever ague, but went on board, determined, to 
 go the Voyage, and thought as I had but just 
 got into business, it would ruin me to lose my 
 place. 
 
 74 
 
I therefore got under way, the wind being 
 West Southerly, and beat down the Harbor. 
 But having a hard fit of the Ague come on, 
 my courage, and strength, failed me, came to 
 anchor, — got into the Boat, with my Chest, 
 and bedding, and was set on Shore, at West 
 Haven Wharf. 
 
 Then with a heavy heart, I trudged up to 
 Capt. Candee's (one of the Owners) and imme- 
 diately informed him, that I had given up the 
 Voyage, and that they must look for a new 
 Master. They Employed Capt. Plymont to 
 sail the Vessel, and Jacob Thompson, as Super 
 Cargo. 
 
 I now felt very much depressed in spirits, 
 and discouraged, and was ready, with good old 
 Jacob, to say, ^^All these things are against 
 me." I continued to have the fever and ague, 
 for some time. At length having recovered, I 
 was offered the Sloop Nancy, of New Haven. 
 A chance of business, worth double to the one 
 I lost, by means of my Fever and Ague. 
 
 We fitted for Sea, — and sailed, before the 
 return of the Vessel, which I had left. It now, 
 was Easy for me to see that while I was think- 
 ing, that all these things, are against me, that 
 Providence was providing for me. I sailed in 
 the Sloop Nancy the latter part of July, 1784. 
 
 75 
 
I arrived safe, in Martinico, — transacted my 
 business, — and sailed for home. Having 
 arrived on the coast, and being Close in to the 
 Western Shore, in the month of September, 
 we took the line Gale, at about East, North 
 East, which drove us so near the shore, that I 
 thought that all hope of Escape, had entirely 
 dissappeared, and that we could do nothing 
 more, (as we carried to it until our sails gave 
 way,) only to Commit ourselves, to the merci- 
 ful Care and protection, of that God, whom 
 winds and Seas obey ; Expecting every minute 
 to be our last. Now, it seems we did not look 
 to him, in vain, for his assistance. For while 
 we were Expecting, Every swelling Surge, 
 would drop our frail bark, on the fatal sand, — 
 behold, — in an instant, — it all became Entirely 
 Calm, — and, although a terrible sea was run- 
 ning, yet, a gleam of hope now appeared, that 
 the wind might come from off the shore, so as 
 to save us, as it seemed to me, if it came from 
 any other quarter, that all hope would be cer- 
 tainly at an End. It remained calm a short 
 time, and then the wind came like a whirlwind, 
 directly off from the land, a very heavy gale. 
 But this was pleasure, as it drove us fast away 
 from the fatal sand. Our joy now, was like that 
 of a criminal, who receives a reprieve, at the 
 
 76 
 
very last minute, as I can safely say, that for 
 a considerable time I had not the least glimmer 
 of a hope remaining of our Escaping. Now, 
 I think I may say, at least, that I have a 
 good hope that I felt some real sense of 
 gratitude, to my Preserver, some thing as I 
 ought, yet. Oh! how soon, are all the mercies 
 and kindnesses of our Heavenly Father, 
 forgotten. 
 
 After this, we soon arrived at New Haven, 
 and found all our friends well. After remain- 
 ing a short time at home, I loaded, and sailed 
 again, for Guadaloupe, and arrived safe at 
 Point Petre. While lying here, one of our 
 Ship's Company, John Ward one of my neigh- 
 bors, was taken sick of the yellow fever and 
 died in about four days. He was buried, on 
 Hog Island, at the mouth of the Harbor. After 
 the business of the Voyage was completed, — 
 sailed for St. Croix, — took in Rum, and sailed 
 for home. On the passage home my only 
 brother, Shubael, sickened, and died, and I 
 committed his mortal remains to a Watery 
 grave, to be seen no more, until the sound of 
 the Arch Angel's trump, shall summons the 
 Sea, to give up her dead. 
 
 At length the remainder of us arrived in 
 safety at New Haven. I continued following 
 
 77 
 
the Sea, in the Same Vessel, in the West India 
 trade including one summer, in the lumber 
 trade to Union River, and Frenchman's Bay. I 
 went out. Early in the Spring, and stayed there 
 myself, sending the Sloop back, in Charge of 
 Capt. Thompson Clarke, and returned myself 
 in the fall. I then sailed for the West Indies, 
 and continued in that trade, until the year 1791, 
 when the Sloop Nancy, which had been my 
 home, for so long a time, was raised upon, and 
 rigged into a Brig, by Elijah Austin, and sent 
 on a Sealing Voyage, around Cape Horn, 
 Daniel Green, Master. He, after finishing 
 taking seal, proceeded on Westward to the 
 East Indies, and back by the Cape of Good 
 Hope going Entirely round the world. This, 
 I think to be, the first voyage of this kind. Ever 
 made from this Country. 
 
 After a short time at home, I took charge of 
 the Brig Polly, in which Capt. Green had sailed, 
 belonging to Elijah Austin, and made a Voyage 
 to Martinico, and St. Lucia, and returned in 
 Safety. 
 
 After having been for so long a time, almost 
 constantly absent from home, I thought, not- 
 withstanding I had not accumulated much 
 property, I had a great desire, for some quiet 
 Enjoyment at home, with my family. Accord- 
 
 78 
 
ingly, I remained at home sometime, laboring 
 some at farming, and some at shoe making. 
 But, at length, feeling somewhat uneasy, in 
 the year 1796, I took a small part in a new 
 Brig, built at North Haven, by Kimberly and 
 Tuttle, called the Hiram, calculating to take 
 charge of her. I got her rigged, and loaded 
 ready for sea. I came home at night, to get 
 my Chest, and bedding, read}^ to go on board, 
 the next morning, but found my family all in 
 tears, at the thought of my going, on account 
 of news having come that day, that the French 
 were capturing our Vessels, and imprisoning 
 the people. At this time the French nation, 
 was at War with the other powers of Europe. 
 Buonaparte, at length, became Emperor of 
 France, and came very near Conquering all 
 the nations of Europe. But by his rashness 
 and pride, his fall was sudden, and final. After 
 finding the feelings of my family (as above 
 stated,) I spent the whole of the evening, and 
 some part of the night (instead of packing up 
 my things,) in contriving some way to get 
 Clear of going the Voyage. In the morning, I 
 went to some of the Owners who were my 
 neighbors, and informed them of my wishes, 
 and that I had no doubt, but that I could obtain 
 a Capt. Howard, of New Haven, to go in my 
 
 79 
 
room, and that he would also take, a consider- 
 able share in the Vessel. 
 
 They, being somewhat frightened by the late 
 news, readily consented to my proposals, pro- 
 vided he would take a part of the Vessel. I 
 hastened up to New Haven, and soon agreed 
 with Capt. Howard, and came home at night 
 completely discharged, and felt well satisfied 
 in thus getting Clear. The Brig sailed and 
 arrived safe in Martinico, (which was then in 
 possession of the British,) sold her Cargo well, 
 and was like to make a good Voyage. She 
 then sailed for home, but was soon taken by a 
 French privateer, and carried into St. Eustatia, — 
 condemned, and bought in, by some American 
 who was there, and Capt. Howard, and his crew 
 took charge, to bring her to New York, and 
 Sailed from St. Eustatia, but after that she was 
 never heard from. My nearest neighbor, Joseph 
 Smith, and one of his sons, was lost in this 
 Vessel. 
 
 I have always considered this, as one of the 
 mysterious Events of my life. That I should, 
 at the last moment, as it were, gain a discharge 
 from a vessel, destined to destruction, and her 
 whole Crew, to a Watery Grave. 
 
 After this, I staid at home some time, and 
 after the French, had ceased their depreda- 
 
 80 
 
tions, in the year 1801, I went to New London, 
 and purchased the Brig Orion, in Company 
 with Esq. Daggett, and Atwater and Daggett, 
 fitted her out for the West Indies, Anson CHn- 
 ton. Master. She went out and returned in 
 safety. I then took charge myself, and went 
 a Voyage, and returned in Safety. I then sold 
 out my part in this vessel, and staid at home 
 until about the year 1811, when I took an 
 interest in the Brig Belona, took charge my- 
 self, got loaded, and ready for sea, when Con- 
 gress passed an Act of non intercourse, with 
 all the British possessions. But as we were 
 ready for Sea, we had to proceed on our 
 Voyage, and arrived Safe in Martinico, trans- 
 acted my business, — sailed for home, and after 
 getting in on the back side of Long Island, off 
 the Hamptons, it being summer time, and Easy 
 weather, I calculated to go on Shore at East 
 Hamptons, Expecting there to get news from 
 home, respecting the operations of the non 
 intercourse Act. 
 
 Here, I came very near attempting to land 
 in the Surf, off the Hamptons, which, if I had 
 attempted, I should to a certainty, have been 
 drowned in the Surf. But kind Providence 
 prevented. We ran in, round Montauk Point, 
 where I landed in perfect Safety. Just at 
 
 81 
 
daylight, in the morning, I sent the boat back on 
 board the Brig, which was without the Point, 
 being the Bluff, off Montauk Point. I then, 
 with some difficulty, procured a Horse, from 
 the keeper of the Light, to ride to East Hamp- 
 ton, (about 20 miles,) and I rode almost all the 
 way, near the Shore, with the deafening noise 
 of the Surf, which was tumbling in on shore, 
 almost continually in my Ears, which reminded 
 me, of the danger I had Escaped, by not 
 attempting to land in the yawl. I at last 
 obtained the desired information, and returned 
 the next day to Montauk Point, made the ap- 
 pointed signal, — and the Brig stood in, — got 
 on board,— and the next day, got into New 
 Haven. 
 
 After this, Capt. Ichabod Smith went out, 
 two Voyages to the West Indies, in the same 
 Vessel. 
 
 We then loaded out again, but she was 
 taken, and carried into St. Kitts, and con- 
 demned by the English. The case was 
 appealed to England, but finally lost. 
 
 After this I never went to sea, any more, 
 myself, but have had a small interest, first and 
 last, in several Vessels. I chartered a small 
 part of the Brig Iris, belonging to Thomas and 
 Henry W^ard,— Henry Ward, Master. Traded 
 
 82 
 
at Guadaloupe, when Victor Hughes was 
 Governor General of the Island. He, Capt. 
 Ward, drew a bill on his Owners, for about 
 one thousand dollars, which was never pre- 
 sented for payment. We chartered the same 
 Vessel again, Farrand Clark Master. She 
 sailed again for the West Indies but was cap- 
 tured by the French and lost. I owned a small 
 part of the Sloop Nancy and Polly, Gideon 
 Kimberly Master, went one Voyage Clear, but 
 the next voyage, she was taken, and lost and 
 no Insurance. I owned a small part of the 
 Brig Willing Maid, Timothy White Master, 
 which went to Cape Nichelamole, and returned 
 safely. She was then loaded again, Ichabod 
 Smith, Master, and Eber Sperry, (in part) 
 Super Cargo, made her voyage in safety, and 
 was then sold. I owned a small interest in 
 the Ship Hope, Capt. Ray, Master, and John 
 Spalding, Super Cargo. Went out bound to 
 the South Sea, on a Sealing voyage. But in 
 consequence of bad weather, loss of boats &c, 
 was obliged to put into port, on this side of 
 Cape Horn, and repair. He had taken a few 
 seal skins, on this side the Cape and with them 
 went Eastward to Canton. Mr. Spalding the 
 Super Cargo, being a young man of great 
 ambition, and high Expectations, of making 
 
 83 
 
his fortune, on this Voyage. But, after seeing 
 his hopes and Expectations all vanish at once, 
 he could not bear up under the disappointment, 
 and therefore went forward in the night, and 
 hung himself at the fore Shrouds. The Ship 
 was sold, on her return, to W^m. Leffingwell, 
 and taken to New York. I owned a part of 
 the Schr. Minerva, in Company with Henry 
 Dagget Esq., and Ebenezer Townsend, Capt. 
 English Master. Got her loaded, and ready 
 for Sea, when Capt. English was taken sick, 
 and Nathaniel Kimberly went in his room. 
 Sailed for the West Indies, but was taken, and 
 carried into Guadaloupe, on the North Side. 
 Capt. Kimberly, and part of his crew, made 
 their Escape in their boat in the night, and got 
 over to Antigua. I had a small interest in the 
 Brig Caroline, — Schr. Amelia, — Sloop Lively, — 
 and Sloop Dove, and perhaps in some others 
 not recollected but, as near as I can judge, 
 without keeping strict account, I never made 
 the interest of my money in navigation. Ex- 
 clusive of my perquisites as Master. 
 
 In about the year .... I commenced business, 
 in company with Noah Wheaton, Reuben 
 Rice, Titus Street, Samuel Hughes, and Philen 
 Harrison, for three years, under the name 
 and firm of "Painter, Wheaton, & Co." and 
 
 84 
 
Reuben Rice & Co/' Painter, Wheaton & Co , 
 occupyed a Store on the Long Wharf, which 
 was burned, in the great fire on the Wharf. 
 Reuben Rice & Co. occupyed a Wooden Store 
 in State Street, where the South part of Streets 
 building now Stands. This business continued 
 for three years, at the End of which a new 
 Copartnership was formed, by the same indi- 
 viduals, with the addition of Elnathan Atwater. 
 Myself and Reuben Rice were the Active part- 
 ners. Capt. Wheaton, and Elnathan Atwater, 
 went masters of the Vessels, belonging to the 
 Company. 
 
 Capt. W^heaton went out in the Schr. Nancy, 
 and got dismasted in a hurricane, to the Wind- 
 ward of the West India Islands on his first 
 voyage, and was himself washed overboard 
 and lost. The death of Capt. Wheaton, one 
 of the partners, dissolved the partnership, and 
 after the business was settled, I became a part- 
 ner in the grocery Store of Reuben Rice, with 
 himself, Titus Street, and Samuel Hughes, for 
 three years. 
 
 At the Expiration of which, the business was 
 settled up, and closed. Some where about this 
 time I became interested in a dry goods Store 
 the next adjoining, West of Smith & Sherman, 
 in Chapel Street, in company with George 
 
 85 
 
Raymond, and Sidney Huggins, for three years. 
 This proved a most ruinous business, as in 
 about two and a half years, I got the business 
 broken up, and disolved, with the loss of about 
 all I put in, say Twenty five hundred dollars. 
 About this time, myself, Capt. Ichabod Smith, 
 and Abram Heaton, Employed James Leite, 
 to build us a vessel at Guilford, When Com- 
 pleted, we rigged her into a Ship, and Called 
 her the Pacific. She went one voyage from 
 New York, to Bristol, in England, Capt. Icha- 
 bod Smith, Master. And one up the Straits of 
 Gibraltar, into the Meditteranean, — then into 
 the New Orleans trade, when Capt. Smith, in 
 a short time, undertook to furnish a piloting 
 Establishment, at the Balize, for piloting, and 
 had several Boats built for that purpose, and 
 a house at the Balize, and also, a small store, 
 at the same place, and, for a short time, one up 
 at New Orleans, in which I became interested, 
 but not by my consent. The Store at the Balize, 
 I had one-third interest in. About the year 
 1826, we sold the Pacific, and in about 1829, I 
 sold my share in the piloting Concern at the 
 Balize, to Mr. Heaton, which ended our con- 
 cerns in Ship Pacific, piloting concerns, &c. 
 and according to the best calculation, which I 
 could make, having kept an account of moneys 
 
 86 
 
paid, and received, — I received something Short 
 of 5 per cent on my money while engaged in 
 this business. 
 
 I now having arrived nearly to the Age of 
 man, and having a wife, who was much en- 
 feebled by the numb palsy, I thought it not 
 best, to Engage any farther in active business, 
 and, for the future only to superintend my own 
 domestic concerns, in connection with such 
 acts of kindness, as I might be able to perform, 
 for my neighbors, and the public. 
 
 87 
 
A SHORT SKETCH OF MY FAMILY 
 
 WILL NOW CLOSE THIS 
 
 NARRATIVE. 
 
 I was married, to Miss Hannah Candee, in 
 the latter part of the year 1783, and she con- 
 tinued, to live at her Father's, for some time, 
 as I was almost continually at Sea, in the 
 Sloop Nancy, as heretofore Stated. 
 
 We both joined the Church of Christ, in 
 West Haven RevJl Noah Williston, Pastor, 
 some time in the year 1784. 
 
 We removed to the house, where I now live, 
 sometime in the year 1785. In consequence of 
 my having kept a record of the births, of all 
 my Children, in my account book, I am able to 
 state them as follows, Viz. August 8*^ 1784, we 
 had a daughter born, and called her name 
 Angelina. On the 21^* of March 1787, we had 
 a son born, and called his name, Joseph. He 
 appeared to be a healthy Child, until about 
 eight and a half months old, when he was 
 
ANCESTRY OF 
 
 -Condc 
 
 Thomas Painter 
 Westerly, R. I. 
 
 1706 
 
 Catherine 
 
 1641 
 
 George Lamberton 
 1646 
 
 Margaret Lewen 
 John Cande 
 
 Shubal Painter 
 of Newport, R. 1. 
 1641 
 
 Mercy Lamberton 
 
 1641 
 
 Zaccheus Candee 
 
 1640 1720 
 
 Henry Bristol 
 
 Rebecca Bristol 
 
 1648 1739 
 
 Robert Dunbar 
 
 1630 1693 
 
 John Beecher 
 
 1637 
 
 Hannah 
 
 1659 
 
 Robert Stevens 
 
 Forde,BrixtonParish, England 
 1627 
 
 Dionis 
 
 Zachery Goodyear 
 Susanna Baxter 
 
 Si 
 
 Isaac Beecher 
 
 1689 
 
 Mary 
 
 John Stevens 
 
 1670 
 
 Mary 
 
 John Colt 
 
 of Glamorganshire, Wales 
 1659 
 
 Mary Jenners 
 1596 1676 
 
 George Smith 
 
 1662 
 
 Sarah 
 
 Stephen Goodyear (DeputyGovJ 
 
 1603 
 
 Margaret Lewen Lamberton 
 
 Rose 
 
 1700 
 
 John Beecher 
 1645 1712 
 
 Elizabeth 
 
 1722 
 
 John Stevens 
 1632 
 
 Mary Coit 
 
 Nathan Smith 
 1656 
 
 Esther Goodyear 
 1654 1690 
 
 ^1 
 
 George Smith 
 Sarah 
 
 1662 
 
 George Lamberton 
 
 1646 
 
 Margaret Lewen 
 John Cooper 
 
 John Thompson 
 Ellen Harrison 
 
 1689 
 
 1674 
 
 1690 
 
 in , 
 
 2| 
 
 Samuel Smith (Lieut.) 
 
 1651 1726 
 
 I 
 
 Obedience Lamberton ^ \ 
 1645 1734 J 
 
 John Cooper, Jr. 
 
 Mary Thompson 
 
 1652 
 
 
THOMAS PAINTER 
 
 Thomas Painter (Ensign) 
 
 1674 1730 
 
 Rebecca Candee 
 
 1671 
 
 S \ Shobal Painter 
 
 1698 1785 \ 
 
 I^ ) Joseph Painter 
 
 1731 1766 
 
 John Dunbar 
 
 Elizabeth Beecher 
 
 
 o > Elizabeth Dunbar 
 ^ I 1701 
 
 Thomas Stevens 
 1677 1777 
 
 ® ) Thomas Stevens 
 1713 1752 
 
 I 
 
 < 
 
 Amy Smith 
 1683 1780 
 
 Samuel Smith (Capt. ) 
 1753 
 
 b v Desire Smith 
 
 1712 1779 
 
 {2 > Amy Stevens 
 
 ^ I 1737 1773 
 
 Mary Cooper 
 1677 1761 
 
taken sick, just as I was ready for Sea. I left 
 him doubting, whether I should Ever see him 
 again. On my return my fears were realised. 
 He died, at the age of nine months, and thirteen 
 days. I continued my business of following 
 the Sea, as usual. 
 
 On the i6*M of April 1789, We had another 
 son born and called his name Joseph Alexis. 
 He also, appeared to be a well, healthy Child, 
 until four years of age, when he was taken 
 sick, and died, aged four years, and two 
 months. On the 20*.^ of August 1791, we had 
 a daughter born, and Called her name Cynthia. 
 
 On the 24*.^ of November 1794, we had a son 
 born, and Called his name Alexis. On the 7*^ of 
 April 1797, we had a son born, and called his 
 name Samuel. 
 
 On the 3'f of October, 1799, we had a son 
 born, and called his name Sidney. On the 
 26*,^ of February 1802, we had a daughter born, 
 and Called her name Amelia. 
 
 She appeared in good health, for ten months, 
 and some days, then sickened and died. On 
 the 21^^ of May 1804, we had a son born, 
 and called his name Lucius. He lived to be 
 nine years old, when Samuel (who lived 
 with Charles Sherman, in New Haven), 
 came home, sick with the Dyssentary, which 
 
 89 
 
disorder spread almost entirely through my 
 family. Mrs. Painter, Sidney and Lucius 
 were all down at the same time with it, so 
 that we had a complete Hospital, and it ap- 
 peared to me that the disorder was Extremely 
 infectious, so much so, that I would not ask, 
 or Even wish, any of the neighbors, to assist 
 me in watching. I had therefore, a task 
 indeed, as I kept the Sick, all up Chamber, so 
 as not to spread the desease. I had to watch 
 Every night, and get a nap, of about three 
 hours, in the morning, and then, up to the 
 Charge of my Sick Ones. 
 
 At length they all began to mend. Except 
 Lucius, who continued to grow worse, until 
 death came to his relief. ***** Now perhaps 
 I may with Safety Say, that no one can know, 
 the heart rending pangs that parents must feel, 
 in committing So many of their dear Children 
 to the dust, Except those who have Experienced 
 it. The rest of my Children, (five in number), 
 lived to grow up, to mature age, and are all 
 now living and Scattered round about the 
 Country. 
 
 Now, when I review the past, and think of 
 the Sorrowful days and nights, which I have 
 spent over the Sick and dying beds of So many 
 of my dear Children who died in infancy and 
 
 go 
 
Childhood, before they had Experienced much 
 of the troubles, sorrows, and temptations, of a 
 wicked and Ensnaring world, and then as I 
 humbly hope, made a safe, and happy retreat, 
 to a happier, and better country, where sin and 
 Sorrow, gain no Admittance. 
 
 And then, when I think of my other Children 
 who survive, and Embarked on the tempes- 
 tuous Ocean of life, continually liable to be 
 Shipwrecked, by the many Snares, and tempta- 
 tions, which beset them on every Side, besides 
 being liable to many misfortunes, and disap- 
 pointments, and perhaps have to Struggle hard, 
 to obtain food and raiment, and at last, have 
 the debt of nature, which we all owe, to pay, 
 and appear before their Judge, with a long, 
 and fearful account, I say, when I think of all 
 these things, I am almost ready to say, although 
 Ever so grevious at parting, — Happy the babes 
 who made an Early Exit. But I do humbly 
 hope I have committed those who are gone, 
 and those which remain, to the care and keep- 
 ing, of that kind and gracious being who when 
 my Father, and Mother, had forsaken me, took 
 me up, and in the many perils and dangers 
 which have beset my path through life, has 
 been a God at hand, and not afar off, so that 
 when I cried to him, in my troubles, his arm 
 
 91 
 
brought Salvation, Even to a good old age. 
 Those of my Children that Survive now live 
 as follows, Viz. Cynthia, in Westfield Mass. 
 Angelina, and Sidney, in New Haven. Alexis, 
 at his native Village in West Haven, and 
 Samuel, in New York, where he has resided 
 for Eighteen years. 
 
 My Children were all baptized in infancy, by 
 the ReverJ^ Noah Williston, the same person 
 by whom I was baptized myself, he, having 
 settled in West Haven the same year, in which 
 I was born, and he, was Ordained, when I was 
 about five months old. As I have before Stated, 
 I left following the Sea Steady, at about the 
 meridian of life, in order to Enjoy the Com- 
 forts of my family, and fireside. And, from 
 that time forward, I presume, did Enjoy my- 
 self, and take as much comfort, as commonly 
 falls to the lot of man in this life, having Agar's 
 portion, neither poverty, nor riches, but food 
 and raiment convenient, with which, I was in 
 a good measure, and ought always, to be 
 entirely content, while I, and my dear Com- 
 panion, were endeavoring to rear up, and 
 instruct our Children, which were still spared 
 to us, after our poor fashion, until they began 
 to leave us; and scatter out into the wide world, 
 all of them in different directions,ExceptSidney, 
 
 92 
 
who staid at home until he was about twenty 
 Six years of age. So, that in a few fleeting 
 moments, as it appeared, we were left entirely 
 alone, and not a child at home, to look upon. 
 
 In this retired Situation, we continued, living 
 in our peacable and quiet retreat, in the full 
 enjoyment of all the comforts, which ought 
 to be desired, or wished for, in our journey, 
 through this probationary State; until at length, 
 my Companion began to have some fearful 
 forebodings of coming trouble, in consequence 
 of feelings of numbness. At these feelings she 
 felt more alarmed while she recollected that 
 her mother, all her mother's Sisters (six in 
 number) and also her Grandfather, and Grand- 
 mother Sherman, all died with the numb palsy. 
 And it was not long, before her fears were 
 realized, and she was taken suddenly in fits 
 and spasms, which we thought, had some 
 relation to the palsy. For about One day, we 
 did not Expect her life. But, at length She 
 partially recovered, and for some time, was 
 able to attend to her domestic Concerns, they, 
 however being small. 
 
 In this state she continued some time, until, 
 at length, in getting up one morning, she found 
 she could hardly walk. On getting to the fire, 
 I drew off her Stockings, and soon discovered. 
 
 93 
 
by the blue spots on her feet, that the palsy had 
 come in Earnest. 
 
 I went immediately to brushing, rubbing, 
 &c, and continued this operation daily, for a 
 considerable length of time, but she never 
 could gain, the full use of her feet again, but 
 continued to hobble about House, for about one 
 year, when the fatal moment of her departure 
 had arrived. As She had all her life time, been, 
 of very industrious habits, and must always be 
 doing something, she could not be satisfied, 
 unless she had some work in her hands. But 
 as the palsy, had in some degree, weakened, 
 and impaired her faculties, we found some 
 difficulty, in providing work, which she was 
 able, and competent, to manage, and accom- 
 plish, without assistance. At length on the 
 ig^^ day of November 1830, We being alone 
 in the House, and she sitting by the kitchen 
 fire place, attending to her sewing work, which 
 she had in her hand, — I, happening to come 
 into the room, at that instant, sat down near 
 her, and was looking at her, perhaps two or 
 three minutes to see her manage her work. 
 All at once she laid the work down in her lap, 
 and seemed to sit, as if in a deep study about 
 something. 
 
 I thought, that something might be the 
 
 94 
 
matter, and that she might be faint. I there- 
 fore took hold of her, to assist her on to the bed, 
 and spoke to her, but she made me no reply, 
 nor any motion to help herself. I then took 
 her up in my arms, carried her into the other 
 room, and laid her on the Bed, and she ap- 
 peared to be gone. I immediately set to rub- 
 bing her, and blowing in her face, to make her 
 Catch for breath &c. As it happened at this 
 instant Mrs. Smith, (wife of my neighbor, 
 Chauncey Smith,) came in, and she rallied a 
 few of the neighbors, who soon came in, and 
 a Horse, already Saddled, being at hand, I 
 sent immediately to New Haven for a Doctor, 
 and he was quick here, before she was entirely 
 gone. But there was no help, neither did I 
 expect any, but I thought it would be a com- 
 fort to me, not knowing what might be possible. 
 
 The pulse ceased to beat soon after the 
 arrival of the Doctor. She was taken at about 
 12 O.' Clock at noon, and all signs of life dis- 
 appeared, and her Eyes, Closed in death, at 
 about 3 O.' Clock. P. M. 
 
 She never Spoke, nor so much as moved a 
 single joint or finger, — or opened her Eyes, — 
 or made the least noise, from the time she was 
 taken, until her pulse ceased to beat, and her 
 departing Spirit, took its flight, as I have reason 
 
 95 
 
to believe, to some of those many mansions 
 which are prepared for all those who love our 
 Lord Jesus Christ in Sincerity. 
 
 And Oh ! what a change in three short hours. 
 
 My care and my comfort, my dear Com- 
 panion and bosom friend, with whom I have 
 So happily walked, through a long journey in 
 life, for the Space of forty seven years, is no 
 more. 
 
 Her eyes, and lips, are forever Closed in 
 death, and I am left a Solitary wanderer, to 
 continue a short space longer. In about four 
 days after her decease, we committed the 
 mortal remains of my dear Companion, to the 
 Silent grave. 
 
 I continued at my lonely dwelling, with 
 Amelia P. Rich, my Grand Daughter, for my 
 House Keeper, for about thirteen months, until 
 she became somewhat tired of her confine- 
 ment, I, not knowing what way was best for 
 me. I now, knew not what way, it was best 
 for me to take, whether, to break up house- 
 keeping, and leave my home, (the place where 
 I was born, and where I had spent a long life,) 
 and go abroad to board, must be very disagree- 
 able, — or, — to find a suitable House keeper, to 
 come and stay with me, was also both, difficult 
 and disagreeable, — or, — to seek for another 
 
 96 
 
partner, and be able to find one of the right 
 stamp, in all respects, I knew, also, to be 
 Equally difficult, although, perhaps not quite 
 as disagreeable. I therefore resolved, upon the 
 latter of these alternatives. I therefore Con- 
 cluded, that if I could find a partner of Suitable 
 age, & other ways agreeably situated, who 
 would be willing to become my companion for 
 a short time, that I had better form another 
 connection. 
 
 Accordingly I became acquainted with Mrs. 
 Elizabeth W. Buddington, of Hartford, and 
 some time in the month of December 1831, I 
 went to Hartford in the stage, and in the same 
 month, we were married by the Rev^ Joel 
 Hawes; after which, we proceeded in the stage 
 to Westfield, where we spent about ten days, 
 and then returned to West Haven, by the way 
 of Hartford, where we have lived in the enjoy- 
 ment of health, and Comfort, for nearly five 
 years. 
 
 97 
 
A COPY OF THOMAS PAINTER'S LAST 
 LETTER TO HIS CHILDREN 
 
 WHICH WAS FOUND WITH HIS WILL IN BANK VAULT IN NEW 
 
 HAVEN, DATED AND WRITTEN IN DECEMBER 1842, 
 
 ABOUT SIX YEARS BEFORE HIS DECEASE. 
 
 My Dear Children: 
 
 It has long been my wish, and intention, to 
 leave a few lines for your perusal, after I 
 am gone, and the hand that penned them is 
 mould'ring in the dust. But I have put off, 
 and put off, this disagreeable business, to this 
 late hour, when between 8i and 82 years of 
 my life, have come and gone, and the grave 
 blossoms are covering my head, and the in- 
 firmities of age are fast creeping upon me, and 
 I begin to know what it means, when it is said, 
 *^the grasshopper shall be a burden/ ' Now, 
 when I take a retrospective view of my long 
 life, and recount the numerous dangers of 
 death, through which I have passed, and the 
 
 98 
 
very many, to which I have been Exposed, of 
 falling into bad practices while in the Army, 
 in Prison Ships, Privateering, following the 
 Sea &c., while very young, having no Parents 
 to instruct, or to give me counsel, or advice, 
 (and yet, I hope I have, through the goodness 
 of God, Escaped most of the grosser Sins, and 
 Vices, to which many have fallen an easy 
 prey,) — and when I consider the great good- 
 ness of God to me, in the almost miraculous 
 preservation of my health, (never having a fit 
 of sickness during my whole life,) when I look 
 back on the many dangers, through which I 
 have passed, and the mercies almost innumer- 
 able which I have Enjoyed, while all my 
 youthful acquaintance, are gone to their final 
 account, and yet I am still, a spared monu- 
 ment of the mercies of God. Oh ! how I ought 
 to be astonished, while I attempt to recount 
 the mercies I have received, from my kind and 
 gracious God. Yes, his mercies both temporal 
 and Spiritual, have been without number, — 
 and how much more ought I to be astonished 
 to think, that after all this kindness, and for- 
 bearance Exercised towards me, that I should 
 be unthankful, and unmindful of the God, and 
 giver of all my mercies. And why such a 
 rebellious wretch as I am, should be continued 
 
 99 
 
to this time, is known only to him, who knows 
 all things. But, perhaps I have already said 
 too much about myself, as I have heretofore 
 given you a written narrative of my life, and 
 the principal object of this letter being, to give 
 you a few hints, by way of advice, and take 
 my final leave of you. And I trust you will 
 believe me, when I tell you, that this is solemn 
 work with me, standing as I do, on the brink 
 of the grave, and knowing that my departure 
 is at hand, and then looking around, after my 
 dear Surviving Children, who are scattered 
 around in such a World as this;— it is impos- 
 sible, but I must feel great concern, for their 
 temporal and Spiritual welfare. And I am 
 afraid I have been too much concerned for 
 their temporal welfare, and that I have not 
 been. Entirely willing to leave them, in the 
 hands of that kind, and merciful being, who, 
 when both my Father, and my Mother, had 
 forsaken me while very young, took me up, 
 and sustained me to this time. Even to very 
 Old Age. And I fear that I have been too 
 little concerned for your Spiritual interest, in 
 that good part which can not be taken away. 
 But thanks be to God, that I may have a hope, 
 that my poor prayers, and wishes, have been 
 granted, and that I may hope that you have 
 
 100 
 
all Entered the Ark of Safety, and that you 
 have all Embraced, the Lord Jesus Christ, in 
 the Arms of your love. And if so press for- 
 ward toward the mark, for the prize of your 
 high Calling, always bearing it in mind that 
 the snares and temptations, which lie in your 
 way, in the short journey of life, are numerous, 
 and that you have the world, the flesh, and 
 that subtle adversary, the Devil, to Contend 
 with, always remembering, that your own 
 strength is weakness. Look therefore to 
 God, through the merits of the Redeemer, for 
 assistance, in all times of need, always de- 
 pending wholly on the merits, and interces- 
 sion, of our dear Redeemer, for acceptance 
 with God, for I do hope and trust that you 
 see, that your own best righteousness, is as 
 filthy rags, and that your best services, needs 
 Cleansing in the blood of Atonement. Lean 
 therefore, wholly, on the Arm of your Almighty 
 Saviour, striving to imitate his lovely example, 
 and to walk in his footsteps. 
 
 I believe it to be, one of the most difficult 
 duties, that is required of a real Christian, in 
 the present life, — to be, — and to have, — ^just so 
 much to do with this World, as duty requires, 
 and yet, not to be Entangled, & captivated 
 with it, to the neglect of the great, and the one 
 
 lOI 
 
thing needful. Our heavenly father knows, 
 that we stand in need of these worldly Com- 
 forts, but his direction is, seek first, the king- 
 dom of God, and his righteousness, and then 
 adds the promise, that all these things, shall 
 be added. You, now, are all at, or passed, the 
 meridian of life, and some of you begin to 
 carry the marks of age. You have all no 
 doubt, been wishing at least to obtain Agur's 
 portion, and no doubt would have been grati- 
 fied, to have obtained something more. But 
 your heavenly Father, has not seen best, that 
 you should possess much of this World's 
 goods, and what he does, is always best. He 
 has informed us, in his word, of the great 
 danger of riches, and that it is, almost impos- 
 sible, for a rich man to enter into the kingdom 
 of heaven, and those, who live long in the 
 World, will bear sorrowful testimony, (if we 
 may judge,) to the truth of this part of Holy 
 Writ. 
 
 I have long since, made up my mind, that 
 generally, there is no readier way, to cause a 
 man to deny his Maker, than to give him un- 
 interrupted prosperity, and an abundance of 
 this worlds goods. I do not make the remarks, 
 thinking, — or Expecting, and I hope, not even 
 wishing, that any of you should become rich. 
 
 102 
 
yet, I could wish if it was God's will, that you 
 might have food and raiment, so as to be com- 
 fortable, but not fashionable, like too many, 
 who call themselves Christians, at the present 
 day. As I have before observed, I have been 
 preserved, (though left an Orphan soon after 
 leaving my Cradle,) through a long life, and 
 have been blessed, with what I call Agur's 
 portion, and perhaps something more. And if 
 anything should remain, after my Decease, I 
 have made a distribution of the same, which 
 you will receive, together v/ith this letter, and, 
 I must be permitted, not only to hope, but to 
 know, that you will all be perfectly satisfied 
 therewith, for, did I now believe, that it would 
 be otherwa^^s, and that the small savings of a 
 long life, would be the cause of any unkind 
 feelings among you, towards Each other, I 
 should, most certainly, dispose of it in a very 
 different way. And I do also hope, and trust, 
 that whatever you may receive, may be Ex- 
 pended, only, for the necessaries of life, while 
 on your journey to the grave, — or, — if you 
 have anything to spare, devote it to benevo- 
 lent, and pious purposes. While we are living, 
 with some, no doubt, the thoughts of being so 
 soon forgot, after they are covered with the 
 Clods of the Valley, is very disagreeable, but I 
 
 103 
 
have no doubt you will feel, a desire, on first 
 reading this letter, to pay a visit to the spot 
 which contains my sleeping dust, and while 
 your thoughts are thus employed. Oh! remem- 
 ber, that after a few more setting suns, your 
 dust will be commingled with mine. As I have 
 just observed, I trust you will all be satisfied 
 with the disposal which I have made, for I can 
 assure you, that I have had no Josephs or Ben- 
 jamins, in my family. I know of no difference 
 in my love, and affection, to any of my Chil- 
 dren, and could I now speak to you from my 
 narrow house, I must tell you the same thing. 
 If I have made any difference, it is because I 
 thought the circumstances required it. And I 
 trust, that you will. Each one, banish the most 
 distant appearance of any uneasy thoughts, 
 which may arise about the pittance, which, 
 perhaps, I may leave you. As you have been 
 kind, and obedient Children, and have not 
 rent your Parents heart, with any outrageous 
 Conduct, I do therefore, hope, and believe, 
 that you will all, lovingly receive, (if any thing 
 remains,) what Providence has thus kindly 
 provided for you, by me. 
 
 It is the Ardent prayer of your affectionate 
 Father, that you may live together in this 
 world, as brethren, endeavoring to keep the 
 
 104 
 
unity of the Spirit, in the bond of peace, never 
 suffering any root of bitterness, to spring up, 
 that may destroy, the happiness of your fra- 
 ternal affection, since you are all professedly, 
 and I do hope, in reality, journeying to a better 
 Country, to the same Eternal Home, and what- 
 ever different subordinate views, you may at 
 anytime Entertain, your principal and ultimate 
 End is, I hope, the New Jerusalem above, 
 where, you all hope to arrive at last. I hope 
 you will not think it out of place, if I should, 
 once more, and, as it were with my dying 
 breath. Enjoin it upon you, to live in peace, 
 harmony, and love, for, if I might be permitted, 
 and it were proper thus to speak, it does appear 
 to me, that if any disturbances should arise 
 among you, (such as I have often witnessed in 
 families,) that it would disturb my very sleeping 
 dust. 
 
 It only now remains, that I close this letter, 
 by bidding you a long, — yes, — a long and final, 
 farewell ! ! — hoping, that by the mercy of God, 
 through the merits of Christ, we may all, One 
 day, have an infinitely happier meeting, than 
 we have Ever had, in this world of Sin, and 
 Sorrow, 
 
 Even at Christ's right hand, in Zion 
 above, being Clothed upon, with the 
 
 105 
 
Spotless robe of his righteousness, to 
 spend an Eternity, with Saints, and 
 Angels, in singing praises, and Halle- 
 lujahs, to God, and the Lamb. Amen. 
 From your Affectionate Father 
 
 THOS. PAINTER. 
 
 N. B. It is my wish, that Each of my Chil- 
 dren, should have a Copy, of the fore- 
 going letter, and also, a Copy of the 
 Narrative of my life, and I do hope, that 
 Each one, will be willing, to make a 
 Copy for themselves. 
 
 It is my wish, that after my decease, that 
 this letter, be Copied into the book, in which, 
 is the Narrative of my life, and that each of 
 my Children have a Copy of the whole. 
 
 106