General Prescot surprised and taken....

The British army embarks.
{1777} The effect of the proclamation published by Lord and General Howe on taking possession of New Jersey, was, in a great degree, counteracted by the conduct of the invading army.

Fortunately for the United States, the hope that security was attainable by submission, was soon dissipated.

Whatever may have been the exertions of their General to restrain his soldiers, they still considered and treated the inhabitants rather as conquered rebels than returning friends.
Indulging in every species of licentiousness, the plunder and destruction of property were among the least offensive of the injuries they inflicted.

The persons, not only of the men, but of that sex through which indignities least to be forgiven, and longest to be remembered, are received, were exposed to the most irritating outrage.
Nor were these excesses confined to those who had been active in the American cause.