“General, we all remember our plans, but I can already see some problems that we have to face. My men and I have been here for six weeks, waitin’ on everybody else to arrive. We’ve just about eaten up all our food, and I understand that the others don’t have much to share. Mine are fightin’ men that have been trainin’ together for three years, and we’re eager for our first fight with the British, but we’re not used to this country and a lot of us are already sick. We can get our own food or eat grass, but I’d like to know about the medicine.”

Howe responded, “I have the same problem with my men, who have been dropping like flies. Let’s let my regimental physician give us a report before we continue with the military discussion. Dr. Masterson, please.”

Dr. Masterson stood, cleared his throat, looked at some notes taken from his pocket, and said, “We have been terribly disappointed by the nonarrival of supplies that were supposed to come by boat from Savannah, including ipecac, jalap, calomel, and other purgative medicines for the treatment of malaria, typhoid, consumption, yellow fever, and other incapacitating diseases. Now we understand that the newly arrived troops have not brought what we need. There is a new group of sick soldiers every day and we have little medicine to treat them. We’ve had new promises from Savannah that medicine is on the way, and I don’t know what we shall do if it does not arrive. I apologize for this negative report.”

After the doctor sat down, there was a general discussion, with all four leaders participating. The final conclusion was that they would adhere to the plans made in Savannah and move forward, in the meantime sending an urgent message back to Savannah with instructions on delivering the medical supplies up the St. Marys River for their use after their capture of Fort Tonyn. Houstoun and Williamson announced that they would need several more days of preparation, but Howe and Clarke stated that their men had waited long enough and would proceed immediately to take Fort Tonyn, then wait for the others before advancing further.

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