Then the city of New York would be surrounded by a hostile fleet and a hostile army.

The Howes could have performed this maneuver as soon as they had a favorable wind.

There was, we know, great confusion in New York, and Washington tells us how his heart was torn by the distress of the inhabitants.

The British gave him plenty of time to make plans, and for a reason.

We have seen that Lord Howe was not only an admiral to make war but also an envoy to make peace.