Lee had a right to claim this tour of duty; but, as he had declared himself openly and strongly against hazarding even a partial engagement, and supposed that nothing further would be attempted than merely to reconnoitre the enemy, and restrain plundering parties, he showed no inclination to assert his claim.

Unintentionally promoting the private wishes of General Washington, that the command should be given to an officer whose view of the service comported more with his own, Lee yielded this important tour of duty to Lafayette.

The orders given to this general were, to proceed immediately with the detachment; and, after forming a junction with General Scott, and taking command of the troops on the lines, to gain the enemy's left flank and rear; give him every practicable annoyance; and attack by detachment, or with his whole force, as the occasion might require.
These dispositions and orders could scarcely fail to bring on an engagement.

Wayne had openly supported that measure; and Lafayette, though against seeking a general action, had been in favour of a partial one.

Of consequence, should any proper occasion offer, he would certainly attack with his whole force, which would as certainly produce such a state of things as would render it proper to support him with the whole army.
[Sidenote: June 26.] Immediately after the march of this detachment, General Washington moved to Cranberry, that he might be in readiness to support his front division.
The intense heat of the weather; a heavy storm; and a temporary want of provisions, prevented the army from continuing its march that day.
The advanced corps had pressed forward, and taken a position about five miles in rear of the British army, with the intention of attacking it next morning on its march.