the Hudson showed the hazard of audacity, even if it discomfited the enemy. Howe continued: In my situation, I presume I must not risk, as a check at this time would be of infinite detriment to us.… I have not the smallest prospect of finishing the contest this campaign, nor until the rebels see preparations in the spring that may preclude all thoughts of further resistance. He closed by asking for another ten warships in early 1777, plus extra seamen. “We must also have recruits from Europe,” he added, “not finding the Americans disposed to serve with arms.”
