Around midnight we had made it to the docks, and were waiting for the next boat to load. The sleet had changed to snow, and was covering each us with a wet white blanket.

Gen. Washington was there talking to Gen. Knox. Knox had asked for permission to accompany the Gen. as he crossed. It was granted. A boat was loaded with general officers and men and was ready to set off. It lay low in the water, carrying near its capacity. Washington approached and looked down at Gen. Knox as he sat in the boat.

It was then I heard something that will endear that man to me for all my life. General Washington, commander in chief, gentleman of Virginia, said in a voice loud enough for every man to hear.

“Shift your fat ass Henry. But swing your balls slowly or you’ll swamp the damned boat.”

He then got in, sat down and they rowed away.