. . . But Battles Back
The following is a fictional letter written by General William Howe to his wife in England.
May 15, 1775
My Dearest Wife,
After being forced to retreat from Lexington in April of 1775, my men occupied the city of Boston for nearly three months and seeing a need to increase our position here, we planned to occupy Dorchester Heights and Charlestown Peninsula. Unfortunately, thanks to rebel spies, our plan was discovered and the Americans had fortified Breed’s Hill against our attacks.
Led by Colonels Putnam and Prescott, rebels established defensive positions on Breed’s Hill, the smaller of two hills on the peninsula. Our attack occurred in the hot afternoon of June 17th as equipped British soldiers carried about 100-125 pound equipment packs up the hill. Colonel Putnam had ordered his men not to "fire until you see the whites of their eyes," and as our troops reached the colonists, a blast of musket fire was heard. It was a brutal attack with high casualties on our side which resulted in a retreat.
Fifteen minutes later a second attack was attempted. The rebels fought fiercely causing additional British casualties. We were forced to retreat from the redoubt (fortifications) again 30 minutes later.
Our third assault was finally victorious for our side. Leaving the packs behind, we had attacked at close range and then followed with the use of our bayonets. The rebels, having run out of ammunition and possessing no bayonets, were forced to higher ground, Bunker Hill.
Our commander, Colonel Pitcarin, leaped on a fort wall to declare our victory, but was killed with a single shot by Peter Salem, a former slave.
At the end of the three assaults, our casualties were monumental - over 1,000 wounded and 226 killed. Rebel losses were 140 killed and 270 wounded.
As I reflect on our victory my dearest wife, "the success is too dearly bought."
Your loving husband,
General William Howe