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General Smyth's rousing letter, and his ultimately failure...



Item # 673042

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December 03, 1812

NEW YORK HERALD, Dec. 2, 1812  Page 2 has over half a column taken up with the noted address of: "General Smyth to the Soldiers of the Army of the Centre". It begins: "Companions in Arms!  The time is at hand when you will cross the stream of Niagara to conquer Canada, and to secure the peace of the American frontier. You will enter a country that is to be one of the United States You will arrive among a people who are to become your fellow citizens. It is not against them that we come to make war. It is against that government which holds them as vassals. You will make this war as little as possible distressful to the Canadian people..." and much more, including a $40 bounty for each "savage warrior" killed.
But his plan to invade Canada would be flawed due to poor organization and would not happen. He would be called a coward and was insulted by Brig. General Porter who accused Smyth of cowardice. Smyth challenged Porter to a due, but both men went unscathed--both missed.
Other War of 1812 content but it fails to compare to the General Smyth letter.
Four pages, very nice condition.

Category: War of 1812