In this labor Seymour and Bentley, and in a less degree Philip Wilton, aided Colonel Glover's men; Seymour having the helm of one boat continuously, Bentley that of another.
About half-past nine it was reported to General Washington that all of the first division had crossed, and the boat was now ready for him according to his orders.

The largest and best boat had been selected for the commander-in-chief, one sufficiently capacious to receive his horses and those of his staff who accompanied him.

Seymour was to steer the boat; Bentley stood in the bow; Colonel Glover stationed himself amidships, with three or four of his trustiest men, to superintend the crossing, and all the oars were manned by the hardy fishermen instead of the soldiers.

The general dismounted and walked toward the boat, leading his horse.

Just as he was about to enter, an officer on a panting steed rode up rapidly, and saluted.
"General Washington ?" "Yes, sir." "A letter, sir!" "What a time is this to hand me letters!" "Your excellency, I have been charged to do so by General Gates." "By General Gates! Where is he ?" "I left him this morning in Philadelphia, sir." "What was he doing there ?" "I understood him that he was on his way to Congress." "On his way to Congress!" said the general earnestly, with much surprise and disgust in his tone.