Washington took his forces back to the lines before New York, sparing what men he could to help Greene in the South.

Again came a long period of watching and waiting.

Washington, knowing the obstinate determination of the British character, urged Congress to keep up the numbers of the army so as to be prepared for any emergency.

Sir Guy Carleton now commanded the British at New York and Washington feared that this capable Irishman might soothe the Americans into a false security.

He had to speak sharply, for the people seemed indifferent to further effort and Congress was slack and impotent.