Perceiving this, and being unwilling to leave any thing to hazard, Howe resolved to postpone farther offensive operations, until Lord Percy should arrive with four battalions from New York, and two from Mamaraneck.

This reinforcement was received on the evening of the thirtieth, and preparations were then made to force the American intrenchments the next morning.

In the night, and during the early part of the succeeding day, a violent rain still farther postponed the assault.
Having now removed his provisions and heavy baggage to much stronger ground, and apprehending that the British general, whose left wing extended along the height, taken from M'Dougal, to his rear, might turn his camp, and occupy the strong ground to which he designed to retreat, should an attempt on his lines prove successful, General Washington changed his position in the night, and withdrew to the heights of North Castle, about five miles from the White Plains.
{November 1.} Deeming this position too strong to be attempted with prudence, General Howe determined to change his plan of operations, and to give a new direction to his efforts.[46] [Footnote 46: General Howe's letter.] While forts Washington and Lee were held by the Americans, his movements were checked, and York Island insecure.

With a view to the acquisition of these posts, he directed General Knyphausen to take possession of Kingsbridge, which was defended by a small party of Americans placed in fort Independence.

On his approach, this party retreated to fort Washington; and Knyphausen encamped between that place and Kingsbridge.
{November 5.} [Sidenote: The British army returns to Kingsbridge.] In the mean time, General Howe retired slowly down the North River.
His designs were immediately penetrated by the American general, who perceived the necessity of passing a part of his army into Jersey, but was restrained from immediately leaving the strong ground he occupied by the apprehension that his adversary might, in that event, return suddenly and gain his rear.