Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 4,153, John Champe, Continental (Va.)

SERVICE
NUMBER
Continental (Va.)
Champe, John or Champ
W. 4,153
- B.L.W. 948-100
Phebe
CONTENTS

liad ~ 2212.
Phebe Champe widow of John Champe
who died on the (year 1798) in the of Franklin Co in the State of Ohio who was a Sergeant in the _____ commanded by Captain _____ of the Regiment commanded by Col. Lee in the Virginia line for 2 years Sergeant.
Inscribed on the Roll of Ohio at the rate of 120 Dollars _____ Cents per annum, commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 25 day of July 1838 and sent to Mrs. Ridg- way, Columbus, Ohio.
years to the 4th of March 1838 $840:00 annual allowance ending 4 Sept. " 60:00
$900:00
Special Act { Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1838. and Act 4 July 1836 { Section the
Recorded by J. S. Elliot, Clerk, Vol. 2 Page 176.
Let. to Pen. at sent, July 25, 1838. in Hon. Mr. B. F. Fogg - has given April 6th, 1889.

945- -948 3
The heirs of John Champe Sergeant of the Virginia line —
Warrant ipb January 15 th 1821 Act Rep. 115. 1796
Hon: Sal: Sibley —

To the Hon. Sec. Libby Esquire
In enclosed you have my certificate of heirship which on being presented will procure from the Secretary of War a Warrant for One Hundred Acres of land You will please receive and Receipt in the Secretary's Office for the same
The Secretary of War
will please deliver
to Mr. Sibley the warrant of location for the hundred acres of land which the Government of the United States is disposed to grant to the heirs of the late John Champe of the Virginia Line with due reference Nathaniel Champe
Romney Feb. 1821

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America
The memorial of the undersigned humbly represents, that Your memorialist having been informed that Your honorable body are about devising means for the more effectual relief and support of the surviving Officers and Soldiers of the revolutionary Army, their widows and orphans, and whereas Your memorialist has been advised by those who are better informed on these subjects than himself, to submit his claims to the consideration of the Government, assured that a grateful country will seize with pleasure any opportunity which may occur to evince their respect for the memory of One, who although in an humble station, among the Patriots, who so greatly contributed under Providence to acquire the Independence of Our Country, was not altogether unknown to fame; It is therefore with the greatest pride that Your memorialist can announce that he is the Son of John Champe who in the late revolutionary war was a Sergeant major, in the Squadron of Dragoons then commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Lee, and who after the desertion of Arnold, was selected, and ordered by General Washington in to the Enemy's Camp, in the disguise of a deserter, to ascertain the situation, views and movements of the Enemy, and likewise to seize the Person of Arnold and convey him to the American Camp if an opportunity offered; the service was performed with that courage and prudence, which at once justified the selection, and the wisdom and penetration of him that made it, though not sufficient in all its parts, it was sufficiently so to answer in some measure, the Object for which it was intended.

Your memorialist conceives it unnecessary to give a particular detail of facts, and circumstances, which are now identified with the history of our country, but hasten to relate such as are not so generally known, the late John Champ the father of Your memorialist, (as always understood) lived in Loudoun County (Virginia), when he first entered the army, after the conclusion of the War he resided in Hampshire County where Your memorialist was born, and about twenty years since in a tour through the Western Country in search of land, near Morgan town on the Monongahela he died, the mother of Your memorialist still a Widow lives in the State of Ohio, in Pickaway County and Madison Township. Your memorialist is well assured that his father has never drawn any land from the Government, nor has any provision ever been made for his widow or children, the papers as Your memorialist is informed which would establish his claim upon the Government, are now in the hands of one Cady, who if still living resides it is believed in the town of Romney (Va). Your memorialist in submitting these facts, to the consideration of Congress would beg leave to disclaim any thing like mercenary motives, for himself, he should consider it the best possible advantage he could inherit, to be known and acknowledged as the son of one who had so distinguished himself in such a cause, and would gladly emulate his his fame by pursuing his steps, but it is rare that the best talents, even when accompanied with prudence and capacity will alone raise a man from entire obscurity without the aid of some fortuitous circumstances in his fate. Your memorialist entered the Army at the commencement

of the late war as a Sergeant and remained in that Capacity until the close of the same, when Your Memorialist left the Service; for any information in relation to his Character and Conduct, he begs leave to refer to Genl. M c Arthur Col o Brogdon Major H d Langham & Col o Gration. Now Memorialist having done the duty of Clerk in the Adjutant General's Office at Detroit, after it was rotated by Genl. Harrison, until just before the termination of the war, at which time was ordered from that Post by General M c Arthur to Erie (Pa) and in February 1815 o was recommended by him for a Lieutenant in the Army — and under these Circumstances Your Memorialist begs leave to submit to the liberality and Justice of Your honorable body whether some provision ought not to be be made to his mother and the rest of the family which are in number Six besides himself who are in a state of reduced Circumstances, and to him- self in addition to anything, which in strict Justice may be due him in right of his father, whether if satisfied of his integrity and Capacity, an appoint- ment to some Civil or Military Office under Government could with propriety be conferred.
Detroit 1 st Feby. 1818
Watt. Champ

To The members of the House of representatives and of the Senate of the United States in Congress assembled.
Memorial
The Petition of Phebe Champe widow and relict of the late John Champe, now of Franklin County in the state of Ohio, humbly shews eth that her late husband John Champe (who was born in Loudon county, state of Virginia) in the year 1776 enlisted into the Legion of cavalry commanded by the then Major since General Lee, and was made a serjeant major under that distinguished and valuable officer - that soon after the treason of the notorious General Arnold, certain papers fell into the hands of General Washington, which were calculated to impress the mind of the Commander in chief, with the belief, that Arnold was not alone in the treason - that another General, standing high in the confidence of Washington, the army and the country, was implicated in the treason of Arnold - Gen- al Washington filled with anxiety on that account; wishing to ascertain the truth if possible; to bring back again General Arnold to head quarters, where he might suffer the punishment which his rank treason merited; and also save the life of Major Andre , who had been taken as a spy; committed the delicate and arduous task of attempting to accomplish all these objects, to your Petitioner's late husband, John Champe. With a view to effecting these objects, General Washington directed the said John Champe, then a serjeant major as aforesaid, to desert the American camp then near to New York, to the British Head Quarters, then in that city. The secret at the time alluded to, was known to no one, except Gen. Washington, Major Lee and the said John Champe. In order to cover the real intention, Gen. Washington ordered the said Champe, to carry away with him, his horse, his cloathes, his arms, accoutrements and the muster book of the Legion. - Gen. Washington in order to induce the said Champe to enter on the perilous enterprise, promised him a lieutenants commission; and any pecuniary reward, which he might demand, for the faithful performance of which he pledged his own honor , as well as the honor of congress - Your Petitioner's husband during all the time he remained in that camp to the British camp and for all the time he remained in that camp kept up a secret correspondence with Gen. Washington; dis- sipating the doubts of Washington as to the fidelity of the America- General Shore he had suspected, but from circumstances not within his control, was not able to bring away the Traitorous Arnold. After effecting all within his power, he the said Champe return- ed to the Continental army, but Gen. Washington, fearing lest the said Champe might him now fall into the hands of the enemy, after giving him a few guineas, dismissed with an

assurance, "that his faithful and arduous services should not be for- gotten by his country. That congress were then poor, but when the country became more able, he should be amply rewarded." Be- fore any thing more was done, your petitioner's husband died about twenty four years since, leaving a widow and seven orphan children, who were all young, and with little or no property wherewith either to educate or support them - that your petition- er has by her labour hitherto supported and educated her orphan child- ren - that she has continued a widow ever since the death of her husband John Champe - that she is now nearly sixty years of  age - that her children are all poor - that only three of the seven are married - that she is now old, infirm and poor , and no longer able to support herself by labour, heretofore her only resource - that she put her husband's papers, which General Washing- ton gave him, several years since, into the hands of Gen- al Lee, in order to get some lands for her children, but before he had done any thing in the premises, he died , as she has been informed - that the lands in the Virginia military district which remain unlocated, are of no value and her only hope is, that Congress will redeem the pledge heretofore given by the great and good Washington - that Congress if they should design to read this simple statement of facts, may, by referring to the XXX th chapter of Lee's Memoirs of the War in the Southern Department of the United States, satisfy themselves as to the truth of the greater part of this memo- rial. The following are the names of her children with those of the places where they reside (to wit) Eleanor man, late Eleanor Champe, intermarried with Jacob Hartman Amelia Keys late Amelia Champe, intermarried with William Keys, William Champe and Mary Champe side in Pickaway county in the state of Ohio - John Champe who resides in Franklin county Ohio - Susannah Wilfong late Susannah Champe, intermarried with David Wilfong in Ross county in the same state and Nathaniel Champe who resides at Detroit. Your Petitioner prays to be placed on the pension roll of the United States and have such an allow- ance made for her future support as to Congress may seem meet and that such a grant of land may be made to her children, in the new tract lately purchased of the Indians in Ohio, as Congress under all the circumstances attending the case may think proper to give them, for the zealous and faith- ful services of their deceased father and your her petitioner as in duty bound will ever Pray Decr 15th (P.S.P.)
Patrick M c Dowell Shrebley Mark

March 11, 1937
John Champe W. 4153 BA-J/AWF aw
Mrs. Meady Champe Becker 315 West Lincoln Highway Coatesville, Pennsylvania
Dear Madam:
The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, W. 4153, based upon the service of John Champe during the War of the Revolution.
He was a native of Loudoun County, Virginia; the date of his birth was not shown, nor were the names of his parents stated.
While a resident of Loudoun County, John Champe enlisted in 1776, was appointed corporal, April 20, 1778 in Lee's Legion, was promoted, January 1, 1779, sergeant major in that corps; soon after the desertion of General Arnold, John Champe was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee, to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and bringing him to the American Army, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might fall into the hands of the enemy and be recognized by them and be put to death.
It was stated that John Champe's record was published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in

the Southern Department of the United States, Volume 2, Chapter 30.
John Champe after the Revolution moved to Hampshire County, Virginia. He died about the year 1798, when on a tour of the western country, near Morgantown on the Monongahela.
John Champe married in the month of July, 1782 Phebe, her maiden name not stated. She was living in 1818 in Franklin County, Ohio, then aged "nearly sixty years".
The widow, Phebe Champe, was allowed pension at the rate of $120.00 per annum, by a Special Act of Congress approved, July 7, 1838, at which time she was living in Franklin County, Ohio.
The following children of John Champe and his wife, Phebe were referred to in 1818-
Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartman Amelia, who married William Keys This name as shown in letter dated mch. 6-1859- Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio as "Daniel" William Champe of Pickaway County, Ohio Mary Champe of Pickaway County, Ohio, she was later referred to as Mary Keys John Champe of Franklin County, Ohio Nathaniel Champe of Detroit.
Nathaniel Champe was born in Hampshire County, Virginia, date not given; he served in the War of 1812 as sergeant.
The only surviving children in 1847 were, William Champe of Columbus, Ohio, Nathaniel Champe of Detroit, and John Champe, his residence not shown. Reference was made in 1847 to the heirs of the four deceased daughters, only name designated being, George W. Willfong, son of the above named Susannah Willfong.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

Feb 4-16-1900 D. R. Champe Nashville Tenn. dist Nothing in the Bureau, in addition information in report of War Dept.
Sept. 24-1900- Mrs. F. Melia Macdonald Farmington Ills, Date of marriage
1907 May 21 - names of children to Mary Champe Maw 1917 Mar 30 - Test. to Floyd S. Champe. 1923 May 12 - v Miss M. M. Tyler Ed 1924 Jan. 21 - " " Mrs. Lewis M. Pance 1925 July 20 Robert C. by ad. how to obtain location of P. S. cert.
1929 Dec 23, Hist to Hon Joseph W. Byrns, M E E 1930 - Hist. to Mrs H. A Rice. E E L 1930 - Aug 25 - Hist to Hon Kenneth McKellar Ed
4153
Rey WIDOW, &c.
1933 Feb. 9. hist to Mrs. B. S. Crockett and 1934 May 16 - hist to Joseph B. Gutz 1937 March 11 - hist to Mrs. Mead Champe Becker
File No. 4153  Phoebe Champe  Widow  John Champe  Sergt. War line  Special Act: July 4/86  Index: - Vol. A , Page 128
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Farrington, Ill.,
September 7, 1900.
Dear Sir:-
I write this to ask whether the Pension Office has the record of the pension granted to the widow of Serjeant John Champe of the Revolutionary war and which was granted either in the latter part of the year 1835 or the early part of 1836. Also whether the record of a pension granted to a widow shows that widow's maiden name and the date and place of her marriage. Further I would like to know the cost of having such record copied and forwarded to me if it gives the items last mentioned.
I am in possession of a number of interesting facts concerning the later life of Serjeant Champe which have never been published and which I wish to prepare for publication but do lack the place and date of his marriage and the maiden name of his wife.
Hoping for an early and favorable reply, I am
Yours Respectfully,
F. Nellie MacDonald,
Farrington
Fulton Co., Ill.

Phoebe  Champe
Petition of
Phoebe Champe, widow of Sergeant - major, John Champe
Jan y 15 1838
Ref d to the Committee on Rev d Pensions
Feb. 17 th 1838
Bill No 558
Ridge way

To the Honorable the Congress of the United States
The undersigned your petitioner, Phoebe Champ of the county of Franklin in the State of Ohio respectfully represents that she is the widow of Sergeant John Champ who was settled on by General Washington to hear the disbursement of the Arrearage during the revolution war. For particulars of this transaction your petitioner refers to See's Memoirs 2 vol. c. 30. This petitioner is informed that her late husband never received any other bounty from the government but a tract of land or scrip in lieu of it. She is now far advanced in life poor and in full health depending for support upon the bounty of her children. She hopes either to be placed upon the pension list or to receive some amount in gross adequate to her support the latter sum most of her days. She prays Congress will take her case into consideration and grant her such relief as they think proper.
Dec. 15 th 1837.
Phoebe her mark Champ
Samuel J. Dabell

Pension Office, March 6, 1839.
Sir,
In compliance with your request, I have the honor to give you the little information the records of this Office afford relative to the services of Sergeant Major John Champe in the revolutionary war.
In an alphabetical transcript roll, made up from the muster rolls of Lee's Legion, is borne the name of John Champe, Corporal, of the Second Troop, enlisted 7 th April 1778, for the war; promoted to Sergeant January 1 st 1779. This is the only entry found on our rolls. The muster rolls of Lee's Legion are not in this Office. We have no hint respecting the corps into which Champe is said to have enlisted in 1776, and therefore are unable to verify that part of the history of his service. Possibly the records of Loudon County may throw light upon his early service.
A pension was granted O'Phelia Champe, the widow of John, by a special Act of Congress approved July 7 th 1838, at the rate of $120. per annum, on account of his services as a Sergeant. The widow was then a resident of Franklin County, Ohio. In a letter from G. Swan to Hon. J. Ridgway,

dated Columbus, Jany. 6, 1838, it is stated that "Sergeant Champe and his surviving wife were married in July, 1782." In a memorial to Congress signed by Nathaniel Champe, son of Sergeant Champe, dated Detroit 1 st Feby. 1818, it is stated that John Champe lived in Loudoun County, Virginia, when he first entered the service, and that after the close of the war he resided in "Hampshire County, where your memorialist was born," "and about twenty years since [as he stated] in a tour through the western country in search of lands, near Morgantown on the Monongahela he died". Nathaniel stated that his mother, Phebe, at the date of his memorial, resided in Madison township, Pickaway County, Ohio; that the papers to establish his father's services and claim upon government, were then in the hands of one "Cocy" who he supposed resided at Romney, Va.; also that himself, Nathaniel, served as Sergeant through the war of 1812, having done the duty of Clerk in the Adjutant General's Office at Detroit after it was retaken by General Harrison, until just before the termination of the war, at which time he was ordered from that post by General McArthur to Erie, Pa., and in February 1815, was recommended by him for a Lieutenancy in the Army.
From a memorial of Phebe Champe, the widow of John, dated Dec. 15, 1818, it appears that her children, the children

of John Champe, were Eleanor, intermarried with Jacob Hartman; Amelia, intermarried with William Keys; William and Mary Champe (afterwards Mary Keys) living in Pickaway County, O.; John Champe, of Franklin County, O.; Susannah, intermarried with David Daniel Willfong in Ross Co., O.; and Nathaniel of Detroit. In 1847, as appears from a statement in the Office of the Register of the Treasury, three of these children, namely, William Champe, of Columbus, Ohio; Nathaniel Champe, of Detroit; and John Champe, were still surviving.
The pension of Phebe Champe was allowed to run from the 11 th of March 1831, and was probably paid to the time of her death, the date of which does not appear from the papers in this Office, but may be shown by the books of the Third Auditor.
The heirs of John Champe continued to prosecute their claims before Congress from 1838 until 1847, when an Act was passed, approved the third of March 1847, allowing to his heirs a sum equal to five years' full pay of an Ensign. — See 9 th Vol. Statutes at Large, page 697. This allowance amounting to twelve hundred dollars, was paid to the three surviving sons, William, Nathaniel and John, and to the heirs of the four deceased daughters, with the exception of $57 14 / 100 , the share of George W. Willfong, son of Susannah,

whose residence was not ascertained. I caused inquiry to be made at the Office of the Clerk of the House of Representatives, and at the First Auditor's and Register's offices, for the original papers upon which the Act of March 3 d 1847 was predicated, but could not find them.
Sergeant Champ was not, by law, entitled to land from the United States. An application for land was made by the heirs to the 16 th Congress, but was refused. If he received bounty land it was, probably, granted by the State of Virginia.
The foregoing is all the information I have been able to find in response to Mr. Kercheval's inquiry, and I can only add the expression of my regret that the archives of the government afford such imperfect and meagre materials towards the history of services so meritorious.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully, Your Obedient Servant,
Hon. John P. Floyd, Secretary of War.

Rev. 164
25th CONGRESS, 3d Session.
H. R. 558.
( Rep. No. 568. )
FEBRUARY 17, 1838.
Read twice, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House to-morrow.
Mr. FRY, from the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, re- ported the following bill :
An Act
A BILL
Granting a pension to Phebe Champe, of Franklin county, Ohio.
1 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 2 of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That 3 the Secretary of War be, and he hereby is, directed to place 4 the name of Phebe Champe, widow of Sergeant John Champe, 5 deceased, on the list of revolutionary pensioners, and pay 6 her, during her natural life, one hundred and ten  twenty dollars an- 7 nually ; the same to commence and take effect at and from the 8 fourth day of March, anno Domini eighteen hundred and 9 thirty-one.
20
Approved, July 7 th 1838.
A true copy compared with the Roll in this Office.
Dept. of State, July 11 th 1838.
H. Davis Chief Clerk.
Rev. 164

Circleville O. Dec - 21st 1810
Free
Hon. L. Barber Member of Congress Washington City.
Ms. A. 1. 6 v. 1 p. 15 Rev. H. P. ...
Phoebe Champ Widow of John
Jan. 15 - 1819
Ref d to the Comm ee on Revolutionary pensions
July. 6 - 1819
Report made - agreed to petition rejected.

War Department,
OFFICIAL BUSINESS.
John D. H. [Signature] as Chief Clerk.
Genl. C. Whiting Esq Conner Mansion.
in answer to report of Jan 10th p.m. dated 22 Feb 1778 - Sept 22 1778 -

PHEBE, WIDOW OF JOHN CHAMPE.
[To accompany bill H. R. No. 558.]
FEBRUARY 17, 1838.
Mr. FRY, from the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, made the following
REPORT :
The Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, to whom was referred the petition of Phebe Champe, widow of Sergeant John Champe, deceased, beg leave to report :
That it appears, by the petition and accompanying papers, that the petitioner was married to the said John Champe in July, 1782 ; that the said Champe, during the revolutionary war, was a soldier in the service of the United States, and that he never received any thing but a tract of land, or land scrip, for his services ; that she is now far advanced in life, and dependent for support entirely upon her children, and prays relief.
The services of Sergeant John Champe, in the revolutionary war, were of no ordinary character. It appears, from Lee's Memoirs of the War in the Southern Department of the United States , vol. 2, p. 162, that he enlisted in 1776 ; and it appears, from the records of the War Department, that in 1778 he was a corporal in the second troop attached to Lee's legion, and was promoted to a sergeant in January, 1779 ; and it appears from a letter written by General Washington, p. 182 of the same book, that at the date of that letter, October 20, 1780, he was still in service, and continued in for a longer time, as the sequel of this report will show.
It is indeed questionable whether, under the circumstances, he ought not to be considered as serving to the end of the war. The Committee on Revolutionary Claims, however, in a report made upon the petition of the heirs of said Champe, at the 1st session of the 24th Congress, (see Reports of Committees, vol. 1, of the 1st session of the 24th Congress,) decided that he did not serve to the end of the war ; and his widow and children were consequently not entitled to commutation or half pay in consideration of his services ; it is, nevertheless, a matter of doubt whether his services did not, constructively, and within the spirit and meaning of the several acts of Congress granting commutation or half pay, extend to the close of the war. True, he was discharged before the termination of the war, but not because his term of service had expired, nor because he wished to quit the service, but, as appears from the records of that time, "General Washington represented him with his discharge, lest he might fall into the enemy's hands if he remained."
Thomas Allen, print.

he was sure to die on the gibbet. " It is, however, clearly evident that the service is abundantly sufficient to entitle his widow to a full pension.
A more courageous, hazardous, and daring enterprise is hardly to be found in the history of the American Revolution than is recorded of the petitioner's husband, in the volume above mentioned, and is of so much importance, in placing those services in their proper attitude before the country, that the committee deem it but an act of justice to make that chapter in " Lee's Memoirs " a part of this report.
CHAPTER XXX.
Extract from Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department.
Lately, John Champe, sergeant major of the legion cavalry, who had been for several months considered by the corps as a deserter, returned. This high-minded soldier had been selected to undertake a very difficult and perilous project, the narration of which is due to his merit, as well as to the singularity of his progress.
The treason of Brigadier General Arnold, the capture of Andre, with intelligence received by Washington, through his confidential agents in New York, communicating that many of his officers, and especially a major general named to him, were connected with Arnold, could not fail to seize the attention of a commander less diligent and zealous. It engrossed his mind entirely, exciting sensations the most anxious, as well as unpleasant. The moment he reached the army, then under the orders of Major General Greene, encamped in the vicinity of Tappan, he sent for Major Lee, posted with the light troops some distance in front. This officer repaired to headquarters with celerity, and found the general in his marquee alone, busily engaged in writing. As soon as Lee entered, he was requested to take a seat, and a bundle of papers, lying on the table, was given to him for perusal. In these much information was detailed, tending to prove that Arnold was not alone in the base conspiracy just detected, but that the poison had spread; and that a major general, whose name was not concealed, was certainly as guilty as Arnold himself. This officer had enjoyed, without interruption, the confidence of the commander-in-chief throughout the war; nor did there exist a single reason in support of the accusation. It altogether rested upon the intelligence derived from the papers before him. Major Lee, personally acquainted with the accused, could not refrain from suggesting the probability that the whole was a contrivance of Sir Henry Clinton, in order to destroy that confidence between the commander and his officers, on which the success of military operations depends. This suggestion, Washington replied, was plausible, and deserved due consideration. It had early occurred to his own mind, and had not been slightly regarded; but his reflections settled in a conclusion not to be shaken, as the same suggestion applied to no officer more forcibly than a few days ago it would have done to General Arnold, known now to be a traitor.
Announcing this result of his meditations, with the tone and countenance of a mind deeply agitated and resolved upon its course, Lee con-

tinued silent, when the general proceeded: "I have sent for you, in the expectation that you have in your corps individuals capable and willing to undertake an indispensable, delicate, and hazardous project. Whoever comes forward upon this occasion will lay me under great obligations personally, and, in behalf of the United States, I will reward him amply. No time is to be lost: he must proceed, if possible, this night. My object is to probe to the bottom the afflicting intelligence contained in the papers you have just read, to seize Arnold, and, by getting him, to save Andre. They are all connected. While my emissary is engaged in preparing means for the seizure of Arnold, the guilt of others can be traced, and the timely delivery of Arnold to me will possibly put it into my power to restore the amiable and unfortunate Andre to his friends. My instructions are ready, in which you will find my express orders that Arnold is not to be hurt; but that he be permitted to escape, if to be prevented only by killing him, as his public punishment is the only object in view. This you cannot too forcibly press upon whomsoever may engage in the enterprise; and this fail not to do. With my instructions are two letters, to be delivered as ordered, and here are some guineas for expenses."
Major Lee, replying, said that he had little or no doubt but that his legion contained many individuals daring enough for any operation, however perilous; but that the one in view required a combination of qualities not easily to be found, unless in a commissioned officer, to whom he could not venture to propose an enterprise the first step to which was desertion. That, though the sergeant major of the cavalry was in all respects qualified for the delicate and adventurous project, and to him it might be proposed without indelicacy, as his station did not interpose the obstacle before stated, yet it was very probable that the same difficulty would occur in his breast, to remove which would not be easy, if practicable.
Washington was highly pleased with finding that a non-commissioned officer was deemed capable of executing his views, as he had felt extreme difficulty in authorizing an invitation to officers who generally are, and always ought be, scrupulous and nice in adhering to the course of honor. He asked the name, the country, the age, the size, length of service, and character, of the sergeant.
Being told his name, that he was a native of Loudoun county, in Virginia, about twenty-three or twenty-four years of age, that he had enlisted in 1776, rather above the common size, full of bone and muscle, with a saturnine countenance, grave, thoughtful and taciturn, of tried courage and inflexible perseverance, and as likely to reject an overture coupled with ignominy as any officer in the corps; a commission being the goal of his long and anxious exertions, and certain on the first vacancy.
The general exclaimed that he was the very man for the business; that he must undertake it; and that going to the enemy by the instigation and at the request of his officer was not desertion, although it appeared to be so; and he enjoined that this explanation, as coming from him, should be pressed on Champe; and that the vast good in prospect should be contrasted with the mere semblance of doing wrong, which he presumed could not fail to conquer every scruple. Major Lee assured

the general that every exertion would be essayed on his part to execute his wishes ; and, taking leave, returned to the camp of the light corps, which he reached about eight o'clock at night. Sending instantly for the sergeant major, he introduced the business in the way best calculated, as he thought, to produce his concurrence, and dilated largely on the very great obligations he would confer on the commander-in-chief, whose unchanging and active beneficence to the troops had justly drawn to him their affection, which would be merely nominal, if, when an opportunity should offer to any individual of contributing to the promotion of his views, that opportunity was not zealously embraced. That the one now presented to him had never before occurred, and in all probability never would occur again, even should the war continue for ages : it being most rare for three distinct consequences, all of primary weight, to be comprised within a single operation, and that operation necessarily to be intrusted to one man, who would want but one or two associates in the active part of its execution. That the chance of detection became extremely narrow, and that consequently that of success enlarged. That, by succeeding in the safe delivery of Arnold, he not only gratified his general in the most acceptable manner, but he would be hailed as the avenger of the reputation of the army, stained by foul and wicked perfidy ; and, what could not but be highly pleasing, he would be the instrument of saving the life of Major Andre, soon to be brought before a court of inquiry, the decision of which could not be doubted, from the universally known circumstances of the case, and had been anticipated in the general's instructions. That by investigating with diligence and accuracy the intelligence communicated to him, he would bring to light new guilt, or he would relieve innocence ( as was most probable ) from distrust ; quieting the torturing suspicions which now harrowed the mind of Washington, and restoring again to his confidence a once-honored general, possessing it at present only ostensibly, as well as hush doubts affecting many of his brother soldiers.
In short, the accomplishment of so much good was in itself too attractive to be renounced by a generous mind ; and, when connected with the recollection of the high honor which the selection shed upon him, as a soldier, he ought not, he must not, pause. This discourse was followed by a detail of the plan, with a wish that he would enter upon its execution instantly. Champe listened with deep attention, and with a highly excited countenance ; the perturbations of his breast not being hid even by his dark visage. He briefly and modestly replied, that no soldier exceeded him in respect and affection for the commander-in-chief, to serve whom he would willingly lay down his life ; and that he was sensible of the honor conferred by the choice of him for the execution of a project all over arduous ; nor could he be at a loss to know to whom was to be ascribed the preference bestowed, which he took pleasure in acknowledging, although increasing obligations before great and many.
That he was charmed with the plan. Even its partial success would lead to great good ; as it would give peace to the general's mind, and do justice, as he hoped, to innocence. Full success added powerful and delicious personal excitements, as well as the gratification of the general and army. He was not, he said, deterred by the danger and difficulty which was evidently to be encountered, but he was deterred by the

ignominy of desertion, to be followed by the hypocrisy of enlisting with the enemy, neither of which comported with his feelings, and either placed an insuperable bar in his way to promotion.
He concluded by observing, if any mode could be contrived free from disgrace, he would cordially embark in the enterprise : as it was, he prayed to be excused ; and hoped that services, always the best in his power to perform, faithfully performed, did entitle his prayer to success. The objections at first apprehended, now to be combated, were extended to a consequence which had not suggested itself. Lee candidly admitted that he had expected the first objection made, and that only ; which had been imparted to the general, who gave to it full consideration, and concluded by declaring that the crime of desertion was not incurred, as no act done by the soldier, at the request of the commander-in-chief, could be considered as desertion ; and that an action so manifestly praiseworthy as that to be performed, when known, would dissipate, by its own force, the reflections excited by appearance, which no doubt would be acrimonious, leaving the actor in full enjoyment of the future rich rewards of his virtue. That the reflecting mind ought not to balance between the achievement of so much good, and the doing wrong in semblance only ; to which Major Lee subjoined, that, when in consequence of the general's call upon him for a soldier capable and willing to execute a project so tempting to the brave, he considered himself and corps highly honored ; and that he should consider himself reduced to a mortifying condition, if the resistance to the undertaking compelled him to inform the general that he must recur to some other corps to provide an agent to execute this necessary and bold enterprise.
He entreated the sergeant to ask himself what must be the sensations of his comrades, if a soldier from some other corps should execute the enterprise ; when they should be told that the glory transferred to the regiment of which he was one might have been enjoyed by the legion, had not Sergeant Champe shrunk from the overtures made to him by his general, rather than reject scruples too narrow and confined to be permitted to interfere with grand and virtuous deeds. The esprit du corps could not be resisted, and, united to his inclination, it subdued his prejudices, and he declared his willingness to conform to the wishes of the general ; relying, as he confidently did, that his reputation would be protected by those who had induced him to undertake the enterprise, should he be unfortunate in the attempt.
The instructions were read to him, and every distinct object presented plainly to his view, of which he took notes so disguised as to be understood only by himself. He was particularly cautioned to use the utmost circumspection in delivering his letters, and to take care to withhold from the two individuals, addressed under feigned names, knowledge of each other ; for although both had long been in the confidence of the general, yet it was not known by one that the other was so engaged.
He was further urged to bear in constant recollection the solemn injunctions so pointedly expressed in the instructions to Major Lee, of forbearing to kill Arnold in any condition of things.
This part of the business being finished, the major and sergeant's deliberations were turned to the manner of the latter's desertion ; for it

was well known to both, that to pass the numerous patrols of horse and foot crossing from the stationary guards was itself difficult, which was now rendered more so by parties thrown occasionally beyond the place called Liberty Pole, as well as by swarms of irregulars, induced sometimes to venture down to the very point at Paulus Hook, with the hope of picking up booty. Evidently discernible as were the difficulties in the way, no relief could be administered by Major Lee, lest it might induce a belief that he was privy to the desertion, which opinion getting to the enemy would involve the life of Champe. The sergeant was left to his own resources and to his own management, with the declared determination, that in case his departure should be discovered before morning, Lee would take care to delay pursuit as long as was practicable.
Giving to the sergeant three guineas, and presenting his best wishes, he recommended him to start without delay, and enjoined him to communicate his arrival in New York as soon thereafter as might be practicable. Champe, pulling out his watch, compared it with the major's, reminding the latter of the importance of holding back pursuit, which he was convinced would take place in the course of the night, and which might be fatal, as he knew that he should be obliged to zigzag in order to avoid the patrols, which would consume time. It was now nearly eleven. The sergeant returned to camp, and, taking his cloak, valise and orderly book, he drew his horse from the picket, and, mounting him, put himself upon fortune. Lee, charmed with his expeditious consummation of the first part of the enterprise, retired to rest. Useless attempt! The past scene could not be obliterated; and, indeed, had that been practicable, the interruption which ensued would have stopped repose.
Within half an hour Captain Carnes, officer of the day, waited upon the major, and, with considerable emotion, told him that one of the patrol had fallen in with a dragoon, who, being challenged, put spur to his horse and escaped, though instantly pursued. Lee, complaining of the interruption, and pretending to be extremely fatigued by his ride to and from headquarters, answered as if he did not understand what had been said, which compelled the captain to repeat it. Who can can the fellow that was pursued be? inquired the major; adding, a countryman, probably. No, replied the captain, the patrol sufficiently distinguished him as to know that he was a dragoon; probably, one from the army; if not, certainly one of our own. This idea was ridiculed, from its improbability, as during the whole war but a single dragoon had deserted from the legion. This did not convince Carnes, so much stress was it now the fashion to lay on the desertion of Arnold, and the probable effect of his example. The captain withdrew to examine the squadron of horse, whom he had ordered to assemble in pursuance of established usage on similar occasions. Very quickly he returned, stating that the scoundrel was known, and was no less a person than the sergeant major, who had gone off with his horse, baggage, arms, and orderly book; so presumed, as neither the one nor the other could be found. Sensibly affected at the supposed baseness of a soldier extremely respected, the captain added that he had ordered a party to make ready for pursuit, and begged the major's written orders.
Occasionally this discourse was interrupted, and every idea suggested

which the excellent character of the sergeant warranted, to induce the suspicion that he had not deserted, but had taken the liberty to leave camp with a view to personal pleasure; an example, said Lee, too often set by the officers themselves, destructive as it was of discipline, opposed as it was to orders, and disastrous as it might prove to the corps in the course of service.
Some little delay was thus interposed; but, it being now announced that the pursuing party was ready, Major Lee directed a change in the officer, saying that he had a particular service in view, which he had determined to intrust to the lieutenant ready for duty, and which, probably, must be performed in the morning. He therefore directed him to summon Cornet Middleton for the present command. Lee was induced thus to act, first, to add to the delay, and, next, from his knowledge of the tenderness of Middleton's disposition, which he hoped would lead to the protection of Champe, should he be taken. Within ten minutes Middleton appeared to receive his orders, which were delivered to him made out in the customary form, and signed by the major. "Pursue so far as you can with safety Sergeant Champe, who is suspected of deserting to the enemy, and has taken the road leading to Paulus Hook. Bring him alive, that he may suffer in the presence of the army; but kill him if he resists, or escapes after being taken."
Detaining the cornet a few minutes longer, in advising him what course to pursue, urging him to take care of the horse and accoutrements, if recovered; and enjoining him to be on his guard, lest he might, by his eager pursuit, imprudently fall into the hands of the enemy, the major dismissed Middleton, wishing him success. A shower of rain fell soon after Champe's departure, which enabled the pursuing dragoons to take the trail of his horse, knowing, as officer and trooper did, the make of their shoes, whose impression was an unerring guide.
When Middleton departed, it was a few minutes past twelve; so that Champe had only the start of rather more than an hour; by no means as long as was desired. Lee became very unhappy, not only because the estimable and gallant Champe might be injured, but lest the enterprise might be delayed; and he spent a sleepless night. The pursuing party during the night was, on their part, delayed by the necessary halts to examine occasionally the road, as the impression of the horse's shoes directing their course; this was, unfortunately, too evident, no other horse having passed along the road since the shower. When the day broke, Middleton was no longer forced to halt, and he pressed on with rapidity. Ascending an eminence before he reached the Three Pigeons, some miles on the north of the village of Bergen, as the pursuing party reached its summit, Champe was descried not more than a half mile in front. Resembling an Indian in his vigilance, the sergeant at the same moment discovered the party, (whose object he was no stranger to,) and, giving spur to his horse, he determined to outstrip his pursuers. Middleton at the same instant put his horses to the top of their speed; and being (as the legion all were) well acquainted with the country, he recollected a short route through the woods to the bridge below Bergen, which diverged from the great road just after you gain the Three Pigeons. Reaching the point of separation, he halted; and, dividing his party, directed a sergeant with a few dragoons to take the near cut, and possess with all

possible despatch the bridge, while he with the residue followed Champe ; not doubting but that Champe must deliver himself up, as he would be closed between himself and his sergeant. Champe did not forget the short cut, and would have taken it himself, but he knew it was the usual route of our parties, when returning in the day from the neighborhood of the enemy, properly preferring the woods to the road. He consequently avoided it ; and, persuaded that Middleton would avail himself of it, wisely resolved to relinquish his intention of getting to Paulus Hook, and to seek refuge from two British galleys, lying a few miles to the west of Bergen.
This was a station always occupied by one or two galleys, and which, it was known, now lay there. Entering the village of Bergen, Champe turned to his right, and disguising his change of course as much as he could by taking the beaten streets, turning as they turned, he passed through the village and took the road towards Elizabethtown Point. Middleton's sergeant gained the bridge, where he concealed himself, ready to pounce upon Champe when he came up ; and Middleton, pursuing his course through Bergen, soon got also to the bridge, when, to his extreme mortification, he found that the sergeant had slipped through his fingers. Returning up the road, he inquired of the villagers of Bergen, whether a dragoon had been seen that morning preceding his party. He was answered in the affirmative, but could learn nothing satisfactory as to the route he took. While engaged in inquiries himself, he spread his party through the village, to strike the trail of Champe's horse, a resort always resorted to. Some of his dragoons hit it just as the sergeant, leaving the village, got in the road to the Point. Pursuit was renewed with vigor, and again Champe was descried. He, apprehending the event, had prepared himself for it, by lashing his valise (containing his clothes and orderly book) on his shoulders, and holding his drawn sword in his hand, having thrown away its scabbard. This he did to save what was indispensable to him, and to prevent any interruption to his swimming, by the scabbard, should Middleton, as he presumed, when disappointed at the bridge, take the measures adopted by him. The pursuit was rapid and close, as the stop occasioned by the sergeant's preparations for swimming had brought Middleton within two or three hundred yards. As soon as Champe got abreast of the galleys, he dismounted, and running through the marsh to the river, plunged into it, calling upon the galleys for help. This was readily given ; they fired upon our horse, and sent a boat to meet Champe, who was taken in and carried on board, and conveyed to New York, with a letter from the captain of the galley, stating the past scene, all of which he had seen.
The horse with his equipments, the sergeant's cloak and sword scabbard, were recovered ; the sword itself, being held by Champe until he plunged into the river, was lost, as Middleton found it necessary to retire without searching for it.
About three o'clock in the evening our party returned, and the soldiers, seeing the horse (well known to them) in our possession, made the air resound with acclamations that the scoundrel was killed.
Major Lee, called, by this heart-rending announcement, from his tent, saw the sergeant's horse led by one of Middleton's dragoons, and began to reproach himself with the blood of the high-prized, faithful, and intrep-

id Champe. Stifling his agony, he advanced to meet Middleton, and became somewhat relieved as soon as he got near enough to discern the countenance of his officer and party. There was evidence in their looks of disappointment, and he was quickly relieved by Middleton's information, that the sergeant had effected his escape with the loss of his horse, and narrated the particulars just recited.
Lee's joy was now as full as, the moment before, his torture had been excruciating. Never was a happier conclusion. The sergeant escaped unhurt, carrying with him to the enemy undeniable testimony of the sincerity of his desertion; cancelling every apprehension, before entertained, lest the enemy might suspect him of being what he really was.
Major Lee imparted to the commander-in-chief the occurrence, who was sensibly affected by the hair-breadth escape of Champe, and anticipated with pleasure the good effects sure to follow the enemy's knowledge of its manner.
On the fourth day after Champe's departure, Lee received a letter from him, written the day before, in a disguised hand, without any signature, and stating what had passed after he got on board the galley, where he was kindly received.
He was carried to the commandant of New York as soon as he arrived, and presented the letter addressed to this officer from the captain of the galley. Being asked to what corps he belonged, and a few other common questions, he was sent, under care of an orderly sergeant, to the adjutant general, who, finding that he was sergeant major of the legion horse, heretofore remarkable for their fidelity, he began to interrogate him. He was told by Champe that such was the spirit of defection which prevailed among the American troops, in consequence of Arnold's example, that he had no doubt, if the temper was properly cherished, Washington's ranks would not only be greatly thinned, but that some of his best corps would leave him. To this conclusion the sergeant said he was led by his own observations, and especially by his knowledge of the discontents which agitated the corps to which he belonged. His size, place of birth, his form, countenance, color of his hair, the corps in which he had served, with other remarks, in conformity to the British usage, was noted in a large folio book. After this was finished, he was sent to the commander-in-chief, in charge of one of the staff, with a letter from the adjutant general. Sir Henry Clinton treated him very kindly, and detained him more than one hour, asking him many questions, all leading—first, to know to what extent this spirit of defection might be pushed by proper incitements? What the most operating incitements? Whether any general officers were suspected by Washington as concerned in Arnold's conspiracy, or any other officers of note? Who they were, and whether the troops approved or censured Washington's suspicions? Whether his popularity in the army was sinking, or continued stationary? What was Major Andre's situation? Whether any change had taken place in the manner of his confinement? What was the current opinion of his probable fate; and whether it was thought Washington would treat him as a spy? To these various interrogations, some of which were perplexing, Champe answered warily; exciting, nevertheless, hopes that the adoption of proper measures to encourage desertion, (of which he could not pretend to form an opinion,) would certainly bring

off hundreds of the American soldiers, including some of the best troops, horse as well as foot. Respecting the fate of Andre, he said he was ignorant, though there appeared to be a general wish in the army that his life should not be taken; and that he believed it would depend more upon the disposition of Congress than on the will of Washington.
After this long conversation ended, Sir Henry presented Champe with a couple of guineas, and recommended him to wait upon General Arnold, who was engaged in raising an American legion in the service of His Majesty. He directed one of his aids to write to Arnold by Champe, stating who he was, and what he had said about the disposition in the army to follow his example; which, very soon done, it was given to the orderly attending on Champe, to be presented with the deserter to General Arnold. Arnold expressed much satisfaction on hearing from Champe the manner of his escape, and the effect of Arnold's example; and concluded his numerous inquiries by assigning quarters to the sergeant, the same as were occupied by his recruiting sergeants.
He also proposed to Champe to join his legion, telling him he would give him the same station he had held in the rebel service, and promising further advancement when merited. Expressing his wish to retire from war, and his conviction of the certainty of his being hung if ever taken by the rebels, he begged to be excused from enlistment; assuring the general that, should he change his mind, he would certainly accept his offer. Retiring to the assigned quarters, Champe now turned his attention to the delivery of his letters, which he could not effect until the next night, and then only to one of the two incognita to whom he was recommended. This man received the sergeant with extreme attention, and, having read the letter, assured Champe that he might rely on his faithful co-operation in doing every thing in his power, consistent with his safety, to guard which required the utmost prudence and circumspection. The sole object in which the aid of this individual was required regarded the general, and others of our army, implicated in the information sent to Washington by him. To this object Champe urged his attention; assuring him of the solicitude it had excited, and telling him that its speedy investigation had induced the general to send him into New York. Promising to enter upon it with zeal, and engaging to send out Champe's letters to Major Lee, he fixed the time and place for their next meeting, when they separated.
Lee made known to the general what had been transmitted to him by Champe, and received, in answer, directions to press Champe to the expeditious conclusion of his mission, as the fate of Andre would be soon decided, when little or no delay could be admitted in executing whatever sentence the court might decree. The same messenger who brought Champe's letter returned with the ordered communication. Five days had nearly elapsed, after reaching New York, before Champe saw the confidant to whom only the attempt against Arnold was to be intrusted. This person entered with promptitude into the design, promising his cordial assistance. To procure a proper associate to Champe was the first object, and this he promised to do with all possible despatch. Furnishing a conveyance to Lee, we again heard from Champe, who stated what I have related, with the additional intelligence that he had that morning (the last of September) been appointed one of Arnold's

recruiting sergeants, having enlisted the day before with Arnold; and that he was induced to take this afflicting step for the purpose of securing uninterrupted ingress and egress to the house which the general occupied; it being indispensable to a speedy conclusion of the difficult enterprise which the information he had just received had so forcibly urged. He added that the difficulties in his way were numerous and stubborn; and that his prospect of success was by no means cheering. With respect to the additional treason, he asserted that he had every reason to believe that it was groundless; that the report took its rise in the enemy's camp, and that he hoped soon to clear up that matter satisfactorily. The pleasure which the last part of this communication afforded was damped by the tidings it imparted respecting Arnold, as on his speedy delivery depended Andre's relief. The interposition of Sir Henry Clinton, who was extremely anxious to save his much-loved aid-de-camp, still continued; and it was expected the examination of witnesses, and the defence of the prisoner, would protract the decision of the court of inquiry now assembled, and give sufficient time for the consummation of the project committed to Champe. A complete disappointment took place, from a quarter unforeseen and unexpected. The honorable and accomplished Andre, knowing his guilt, disdained defence, and prevented the examination of witnesses by confessing the character in which he stood. On the next day (the 2d of October) the court again assembled; when every doubt that could possibly arise in the case having been removed by the previous confession, Andre was declared to be a spy, and condemned to suffer accordingly.
The sentence was executed, on the subsequent day, in the usual form, the commander-in-chief deeming it improper to interpose any delay. In this decision he was warranted by the very unpromising intelligence received from Champe, by the still-existing implication of other officers in Arnold's conspiracy, by a due regard to public opinion, and by real tenderness to the condemned.
Neither Congress nor the nation could have been with propriety informed of the cause of the delay, and, without such information, it must have excited in both alarm and suspicion.
Andre himself could not have been intrusted with the secret, and would consequently have attributed the unlooked-for event to the exposulation and exertion of Sir Henry Clinton, which would not fail to produce in his breast expectations of ultimate relief; to excite which would have been cruel, as the realization of such expectation depended upon a possible but improbable contingency. The fate of Andre, hastened by himself, deprived the enterprise committed to Champe of a feature which had been highly prized by its projector, and which had very much engaged the heart of the individual chosen to execute it.
Washington ordered Major Lee to communicate what had passed to the sergeant, with directions to encourage him to prosecute, with unrelaxed vigor, the remaining objects of his instructions, but to intermit haste in the execution only as far as was compatible with final success.
This was accordingly done by the first opportunity, in the manner directed. Champe deplored the sad necessity which occurred, and candidly confessed that the hope of enabling Washington to save the life of Andre, (who had been the subject of universal commiseration in the

American camp,) greatly contributed to remove the serious difficulties which opposed his acceding to the proposition when first propounded. Some documents accompanied this communication, tending to prove the innocence of the accused general; they were completely satisfactory, and did credit to the discrimination, zeal, and diligence, of the sergeant. Lee enclosed them immediately to the commander-in-chief, who was pleased to express the satisfaction he derived from the information, and to order the major to wait upon him the next day; when the whole subject was re-examined, and the distrust heretofore entertained of the accused was forever dismissed.*
Nothing now remained to be done but the seizure and safe delivery of Arnold. To this object Champe gave his undivided attention; and on the 19th October Major Lee received from him a very particular account of the progress he had made, with the outlines of his plan. This was, without delay, submitted to Washington, with a request for a few additional guineas. The general's letter,† written on the same day, (October 20,) evinces his attention to the minutiae of business, as well as his immutable determination to possess Arnold alive, or not at all. This was his original injunction, which he never omitted to enforce upon every proper occasion.
Major Lee had an opportunity in the course of the week of writing to Champe, when he told him that the rewards which he had promised to
* Copy of a letter from General Washington to Major Lee, in his own handwriting.
OCTOBER 13, 1780.
DEAR SIR: I am very glad your letter, of this date, has given strength to my conviction of the innocence of the gentleman who was the subject of your inquiry.
I want to see you on a particular piece of business. If the day is fair, and nothing of consequence intervenes, I will be at the Marquis's quarters by ten o'clock to-morrow. If this should not happen, I shall be glad to see you at headquarters.
I am, dear sir, your obedient servant,
G. WASHINGTON.
† Copy of a letter from General Washington to Major Lee, in his own handwriting.
HEADQUARTERS, October 20, 1780.
DEAR SIR: The plan proposed for taking A——d (the outlines of which are communicated in your letter, which was this moment put into my hands, without date) has every mark of a good one. I therefore agree to the promised rewards; and have such entire confidence in your management of the business as to give it my fullest approbation, and leave the whole to the guidance of your own judgment, with this express stipulation and pointed injunction, that he (A——d) is brought to me alive.
No circumstance whatever shall obtain my consent to his being put to death. The idea which would accompany such an event would be that ruffians had been hired to assassinate him. My aim is to make a public example of him: and this should be strongly impressed upon those who are employed to bring him off. The sergeant must be very circumspect: too much zeal may create suspicion; and too much precipitancy may defeat the project. The most inviolable secrecy must be observed on all hands. I send you five guineas; but I am not satisfied of the propriety of the sergeant's appearing with much specie. This circumstance may also lead to suspicion, as it is but too well known to the enemy that we do not abound in this article.
The interviews between the party in and out of the city should be managed with much caution and seeming indifference; or else the frequency of their meetings, &c., may betray the design, and involve bad consequences; but I am persuaded you will place every matter in a proper point of view to the conductors of this interesting business, and therefore I shall only add, that
I am, dear sir, &c.
G. WASHINGTON.

his associates would be certainly paid on the delivery of Arnold ; and in the mean time small sums of money would be furnished for casual expenses, it being deemed improper that he should appear with much, lest it might lead to suspicion and detection. That five guineas were now sent, and that more would follow when absolutely necessary.
Ten days elapsed before Champe brought his measures to conclusion, when Lee received from him his final communication, appointing the third subsequent night for a party of dragoons to meet him at Hoboken, when he hoped to deliver Arnold to the officer. Champe had, from his enlistment into the American legion, ( Arnold's corps,) every opportunity he could wish to attend to the habits of the general. He discovered that it was his custom to return home about twelve every night ; and that, previous to going to bed, he always visited the garden. During this visit the conspirators were to seize him, and being prepared with a gag, intended to have applied the same instantly.
Adjoining the house in which Arnold resided, and in which it was designed to seize and gag him, Champe had taken off several of the palings, and replaced them, so that with ease and without noise he could readily open his way to the adjoining alley. Into this alley he meant to have conveyed his prisoner, aided by his companion, one of two associates who had been introduced by the friend to whom Champe had been originally made known by letter from the commander-in-chief, and with whose aid and counsel he had so far conducted the enterprise. His other associate was with the boat prepared at one of the wharves on the Hudson river to receive the party.
Champe and his friend intended to have placed themselves each under Arnold's shoulder, and to have thus borne him through the most unfrequented alleys and streets to the boat ; representing Arnold, in case of being questioned, as a drunken soldier whom they were conveying to the guard-house.
When arrived at the boat the difficulties would be all surmounted, there being no danger nor obstacle in passing to the Jersey shore. These particulars, as soon as known to Lee, were communicated to the commander-in-chief, who was highly gratified with the much-desired intelligence. He directed Major Lee to meet Champe, and to take care that Arnold should not be hurt. The day arrived, and Lee, with a party of dragoons, left camp late in the evening, with three led accoutred horses : one for Arnold, one for the sergeant, and the third for his associate, never doubting the success of the enterprise, from the tenor of the last-received communication. The party reached Hoboken about midnight, where they were concealed in the adjoining wood ; Lee, with three dragoons, stationing himself near the river shore. Hour after hour passed ; no boat approached. At length the day broke, and the major retired to his party, and with his led horses returned to camp, when he proceeded to headquarters to inform the general of the much-lamented disappointment, as mortifying as inexplicable. Washington, having perused Champe's plan and communication, had indulged the presumption that at length the object of his keen and constant pursuit was sure of execution, and did not dissemble the joy such conviction produced. He was chagrined at the issue, and apprehended that his faithful sergeant must have been detected in the last scene of his tedious and difficult enterprise.

In a few days Lee received an anonymous letter from Champe's patron and friend, informing him that on the day preceding the night fixed for the execution of the plot, Arnold had removed his quarters to another part of the town, to superintend the embarkation of troops, preparing (as was rumored) for an expedition to be directed by himself; and that the American legion, consisting chiefly of American deserters, had been transferred from their barracks to one of the transports; it being apprehended that, if left on shore until the expedition was ready, many of them might desert. Thus it happened that John Champe, instead of crossing the Hudson that night, was safely deposited on board one of the fleet of transports, from whence he never departed until the troops under Arnold landed in Virginia! Nor was he able to escape from the British army until after the junction of Lord Cornwallis at Petersburg, when he deserted; and, proceeding high, up into Virginia he passed into North Carolina, near the Saura towns, keeping in the friendly districts of that State, safely joined the army soon after it had passed the Congaree, in pursuit of Lord Rawdon.
His appearance excited extreme surprise among his former comrades, which was not a little increased when they saw the cordial reception he met with from the late Major, now Lieutenant Colonel Lee. His whole story soon became known to the corps, which reproduced the love and respect of officer and soldier, (heretofore invariably entertained for the sergeant,) heightened by universal admiration of his late daring and arduous attempt.
Champe was introduced to General Greene, who very cheerfully complied with the promises made by the commander-in-chief, as far as in his power; and, having provided the sergeant with a good horse, and money for his journey, sent him to General Washington, who munificently anticipated every desire of the sergeant, and presented him with his discharge from further service,* lest he might, in the vicissitudes of war, fall into the enemy's hands; when, if recognised, he was sure to die on a gibbet.
* When General Washington was called by President Adams to the command of the army prepared to defend the country from French hostility, he sent to Lieutenant Colonel Lee to inquire for Champe; being determined to bring him into the field at the head of a company of infantry.
Lee sent to Loudoun county, where Champe settled after his discharge from the army, when he learned that the gallant soldier had removed to Kentucky, where he soon after died.

H.R. 558
Phoebe Champe
558

Act Mar 3 rd 1847
9 vol Stat at Large p 697.
Act for the relief of the Heirs of Sergeant Major John Lamprey.
Voucher N o 97.090
Let Mr Lodge see the above papers H. Briggs

Certif o of 1 st Aud t dated 31 st Augt 1847. showing that he had examined and adjusted an a/c bet W.S. & John Lehane dec d upon the basis of 5 yrs full pay of an Ensign $1200. and detailing to what heirs and in what proportion payable.

Warrenton.
March 31. '59.
W. J. Whiting Esq. Forest Pensions. Dear Sir,
I enclose you some papers asking informa- tion with regard to the services of John Champe in the Rev. Army. Gov. Floyd will be obliged if you will give such facts as you can in answer to the questions of Mr. Nicholson.
Please return the papers.
Yours Truly John B. Floyd

Phebe Champe - Ohio roll. Act July 7, 1838 - $120 per annum, to commence on the 4 March 1831.
Send cert to Hon. J. Ridgway J. Ridgway Columbus Ohio.
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commr. Pensions Washington City

Columbus, Ohio, July 19 th 1838.
Dear Sir,
If my memory is correct, on Saturday night, preceding the adjournment of the late Session of Congress, a Bill was passed, placing Mrs. Phoebe Champe on the Pension Roll, reaching back to March 4 th 1831, allowing her a Pension of $120. per year during the remainder of her life, for services rendered by her husband Sergeant John Champe during the revolutionary War. Mrs. Champe is a resident of this County (Franklin) she is an aged person, low in circumstances and dependent on a son, who possesses but little property, for her subsistence and consequently Mrs. Champe requires the aid which the U.S. Congress has afforded to her as soon as practicable.
If it is necessary for a certificate to be issued at your Department in favour of Mrs. Champe, extending to her the relief intended by the act in question, you will confer a favour by forwarding such certificate to me as soon as you may have examined the said act, and as soon as your convenience will permit. If I am incorrect, as to the course to be taken, in this matter, you will much oblige me, by pointing out the proper course which ought to be taken in the premises. I am very respectfully
J. L. Edwards Esq r Comm r of Pensions
Your Obed t Serv t
W. W. W.

In at July 24 Rube Chappelle Sp. act
Mr. J. L. Edwards Esq. Burning Pensions Washington City D. C. H. Ridgway J. Ridgway June 24
FREE

Judge Swan's Letter
FREE
Hon. Joseph Ridgway M.C.
Washington.

Columbia Dec. 16. 1859
Dear Sir,
Incl. you a petition of Mrs. Champ wife of a celebrated Sergeant Champ of the revolution. Her identity is without question. She would be satisfied by being placed on the pension list under the act of 4 th July 1836. You will please tell such a course and give it such attention as you deem proper.
I am S. Smith
to Col. J. Rodgers.

Sergeant Major John Oregon Blane Henry Lee's Gang of the Laramie Country.
Heon Joseph Bragway, u.s. Washington.
FREE
Judge Lewis letter

Columbus Jan. 6 th 1838
Dear Sir,
I am informed and have no doubt of the fact that Sergeant Champ and his surviving wife were married in July 1782. It will be recollected that Champ was discharged from the service by Gen. Washington in consequence of the danger to him that would result in case he had been made prisoner. Without troubling you too much I hope it may be in your power to have this good woman, the wife of the most distinguished man of his grade in the Revolutionary, placed upon the list of pensioners.
I am & T. S. Miller
Genl. Ridgway. M.C.
MB. If convenient I should like to have the report of the Secy. of the Navy. S.S.

Virginia Hampshire County ss
At a Court held for the said County on the 19 th day of February, 1821 it was satisfactorily proved that Nathaniel Champ is a son and one of the legitimate heirs at law of John Champ deceased who was a sergeant in the Virginia line of the revolutionary war. all which is ordered to be recorded and certified to the Secretary of War
In testimony whereof I John B. White Clerk of the Court aforesaid have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said County this 19 th day of February 1821
John B. White

War Department Pension Office January 22. 1838
Sir,
In answer to your enquiry relative to the service of the late John Chanse, I have to inform you that it appears from the rolls of Lee's Legion that in 1778 he was a Corporal in the 2 d Troop in that Corps; that he was in 1779 promoted to Sergeant, but when he left the service does not now appear. His enlistment was on the 20 th of April 1778, and his promotion to Sergeant was on the first of January 1779. This is all the information which the Books of this Office furnish in relation to the service.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your Ob dt . Serv t . J L. Edwards
Hon. J. Ridgway House of Representatives

March 10, 1937
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Mrs. Meady Champe Becker 315 West Lincoln Highway Coatesville, Pennsylvania
JOHN CHAMPE W. 4153 BA-J/MHF:MLB
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Sergeant Major John Champe of the Revolutionary War, especially to the final action on a bill which you state was known as "Bill W", introduced in Congress in 1910 by Senator William McKinley, of Illinois, in regard to a claim of the heirs of said John Champe.
The transaction to which you refer does not pertain to the activities of the Veterans Administration. No claim was presented to this office in 1910, in behalf of the heirs of that soldier. It is suggested that your senator or congressman from your district could possibly give you information in regard to the final action on the bill to which you refer, as it was, you state, before Congress in 1910 and would therefore be recorded in the records of that body.
The Revolutionary War records of this office show that Phebe Champe received a pension for service of her husband, John Champe, in the Revolutionary War.
The papers on file in the claim for pension, W. 4153, based upon service of John Champe have been examined and the data found have been incorporated in a report, herewith, which may be of interest to you.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

Letter from Pen. Office to H.M. - John B. Floyd, Rec. 778, dated March 6, 1859 (possibly meant for AFR.) was placed in this case after this
May 16, 1934 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
John Champe- W.4153 BA-J/AWF
Mr. Joseph B. Lutz Cheyenne, Box 115 Wyoming
msk
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Champ of Virginia.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W. 4153, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John Champe.
He was a native of Loudoun County, Virginia, the date of his birth is not given, nor are the names of his parents stated.
John Champe enlisted in Loudoun County, Virginia in 1776, was appointed corporal, April 20, 1778 in Lee's Legion, was promoted, January 1, 1779, sergeant major in that corps; soon after the desertion of General Arnold, John Champe was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy, near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American Camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might be recognized by the enemy, be recognized by them and be put to death.
X
The soldier, John Champe, after the Revolution

lived in Hampshire County, Virginia. He died about the year 1798, near Morgantown - on the Monongahela on a
John Champe married in July, 1782, Phebe, her maiden name is not stated. In 1818 she was nearly sixty years of age and living in Franklin County, Ohio, where she was living in 1838. comm. from the West-Country
The widow, Phebe Champe, was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved, July 7, 1838. at the rate of $120 per An.
The following children were referred to in 1818-
 Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartman.  Amelia, who married William Keys  Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio  William Champe, a resident of Pickaway County, Ohio  Mary Champe, a resident of Pickaway County, Ohio -  John Champe, a resident of Franklin County, Ohio  Nathaniel Champe, resident of Detroit. in Hampshire Co. Va. 
as 59-5 Nathaniel Champe stated that he served in the War of 1812, and referred to his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, Vol. 2, Chapter 30.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

February 9, 1933
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
John Champe--W.4153 BA-J/ATF
Mrs. S. S. Crockett 118-A 17th Avenue, South Nashville, Tennessee
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Champe.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W.4153, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John Champe.
He was a native of Loudoun County, Virginia, the date of birth and names of parents not given.
John Champe enlisted in Loudoun County, Virginia, in 1776, was appointed corporal, April 20, 1778 in Lee's Legion of Cavalry, promoted January 1, 1779, sergeant-major in that corps; soon after the desertion of General Arnold, he was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American Camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might fall into the hands of the enemy, be recognized by them and put to death.
The soldier, John Champe, after the Revolution lived in Hampshire County, Virginia. He died about 1794 1798.
John Champe married in July, 1782, Phebe, whose

maiden name is not stated. In 1818, she was nearly sixty years of age and then living in Franklin County, Ohio, in 1838 she was still there.
The widow, Phebe Champe, was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
In 1818 the widow referred to the following children:
Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartman Amelia, who married William Keys Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio. William Champe, a resident of Pickaway County, Ohio. Mary Champe, a resident of Pickaway County, Ohio. John Champe, a resident of Franklin County, Ohio. Nathaniel Champe, a resident of Detroit.
Nathaniel Champe stated that he served in the War of 1812, and referred to his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, Vol. 2, Chapter 30.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

August 25, 1930
Rev.& 1612 Wars Section EEL:MLB
Hon. Kenneth Mc Kellar
United States Senate
My dear Senator:
Reference is made to your letter of August 21, requesting the record of John Champe, a soldier of the Revolution.
You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 4153, that John Champe was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, date not stated.
He enlisted there in 1776, in Lee's Legion of Cavalry; was appointed corporal April 20, 1778, in the Second Troop, promoted to sergeant January 1, 1779, and while serving as sergeant major in that corps, soon after the desertion of General Arnold, was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might fall into the hands of the enemy, be recognized by them and put to death.
The soldier married in July, 1782, Phebe, whose maiden name is not given. In 1818, she was fifty-nine years of age and a resident of Franklin County, Ohio, at which time she had the following children: after her visit in Loudoun Co. Va. d. 1794 n 98 at early 60 yrs. in 1838
Eleanor ----- who married Jacob Hartman Amelia ----- who married William Keyes William Campe & Mary Campe residents of Pickaway County, Ohio John Campe ----- of Franklin County, Ohio Susannah ----- who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio. Nathaniel Campe of Detroit, who alleged that he was in elated

the War of 1812, and referred to his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, Vol. 2, Chapter 30.
The soldier's widow, Phebe, was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
It also appears that Warrant No. 948, for one hundred acres of bounty land, was issued January 15, 1821, on account of the Revolutionary War services of said John Champe. The warrant was issued to his heirs.
For information in regard to the location of the land, it is suggested that you apply to the Commissioner of the General Land Office, this city.
Very truly yours
E. W. MORGAN Acting Commissioner

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section
EEL/HNM
144 Copied. from M.E.E.
April 11, 1930.
Mrs. W. A. Rice 203 N. University Street Normal Illinois.
Dear Madam:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W. 4153, it appears that John Champe was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, date not stated.
He enlisted there in 1776, in Lee's Legion of Cavalry; was appointed corporal April 20, 1778, in the Second Troop, promoted to sergeant January 1, 1779, and while serving as sergeant major in that corps, soon after the desertion of General Arnold, was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might fall into the hands of the enemy, be recognized by them and put to death.
The soldier married in July 1782, Phebe, her maiden name is not given. In 1818 she was fifty-nine years of age and a resident of Franklin County, Ohio, at which time she had the following children:
Eleanor ----- who married Jacob Hartman; Amelia ----- who married William Keye; William Campe & Mary Campe residents of Pickaway County, Ohio; John Campe ----- of Franklin County, Ohio; Susannah ----- who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio;
Nathaniel Campe of Detroit, who alleged that he was in the War of 1812 and referred to his father's record published in

Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, Vol. 2, Chapter 30.
The soldier's widow, Phebe, was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
Very truly yours,
EARL D. CHURCH Commissioner.

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section
M. E. E. copied
December 23, 1929
Honorable Joseph W. Byrns House of Representatives Washington, D. C.
My dear Mr. Byrns:
Replying to your letter of December 20, 1929, with which you enclosed copy of a letter from the Adjutant General, I have the honor to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 4153, it appears that John Champe was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, date not stated, and enlisted there in 1776 in Lee's Legion of Cavalry; was appointed corporal April 20, 1778, in the Second Troop, promoted to sergeant January 1, 1779, and while serving as sergeant major in that corps, soon after the desertion of General Arnold, was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he feared he might fall into the hands of the enemy, be recognized by them and put to death.
The soldier married in July, 1782, Phebe, her maiden name is not given. In 1818 she was fifty-nine years of age and a resident of Franklin County, Ohio, at which time she had the following children: Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartman; Amelia, who married William Keye; William Champe and Mary Champe, residents of Pickaway County, Ohio; John Champe of Franklin County, Ohio; Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio; and Nathaniel Champe of Detroit, who alleged that he was in the War of 1812 and referred to

his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, Vol. 2, chapter 30.
Soldier's widow, Phebe, was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
Very truly yours,
E. W. MORAN Acting Commissioner.

January 21, 1924.
Mrs. Lewis M. Pancake, 3189 North High St., Columbus, Ohio.
Madam;
I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 4153, it appears that John Champe was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, date not stated, and enlisted there in 1776 in Lee's Legion of Cavalry, was appointed corporal April 20, 1778 in the Second Troop, promoted to sergeant January 1, 1779, and while serving as sergeant major in that corps, soon after the desertion of General Arnold, was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to

escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington, as he fearing he might fall into the enemy's hands, was  and being recognized by them, a  be put to death.
He married in July 1782, Phebe (maiden name not stated). In 1818, she was fifty nine years of age and a resident of Franklin County, Ohio, at which time she had the following children-- Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartmann; Amelis, who married William Keye; William Champe and Mary Champe, residents of Pickaway County, Ohio; John Champe of Franklin County, Ohio; Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio; and Nathaniel Champe of Detroit, who alleged that he was in the War of 1812 and referred to his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, vol. 2, chapter 30.
Soldier's widow, Phebe was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

July 20, 1925
Robert C. Toy 928 N. Rural St Indianapolis, Ind
Sir:
I have to advise you, for location of land granted to the heirs, on account of the services of John Champe, Sergeant of the Virginia Line, War of the Revolution, you should apply to the General Land Office, Interior Department, Washington, D. C., citing all of the following data- John Champe, Sergeant of the Virginia Line, War of the Revolution, Bounty Land Warrant No. 948 for 100 acres , issued January 15, 1831, Act of September 16, 1776.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.

March 30, 1917.
Floy S. Champe, 1423 North Street, Logansport, Indiana.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 13 th instant, you are advised that it appears in the papers in the claim W. File No. 4,153 that John Champe was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, date not stated, and enlisted there in 1776 in Lee's Legion of Cavalry, was appointed Corporal April 20, 1778, in the Second Troop, promoted to Sergeant January 1, 1779, and while serving as Sergeant Major in that Corps, soon after the desertion of General Arnold, was ordered by General Washington and Colonel Lee to escape to the enemy near New York City, in the feigned character of a deserter, for the purpose of spying and seizing General Arnold and conveying him to the American Camp, in which attempt he failed. He enlisted in Arnold's American Legion of the British Army, from which he was unable to escape until Cornwallis reached Petersburg, when he deserted and returned to the Continental Army, from which he was discharged by General Washington fearing he might fall into the enemy's hands and being recognized by them be put to death.
He married in July 1782, Phebe --- In 1818 she was fifty-nine years of age and a resident of Franklin County, Ohio, at which time she had the following children: Eleanor who married Jacob Hartman, Amelia, who married William Keys, William Champe and Mary Champe, residents of Pickaway County, Ohio; John Champe of Franklin County Ohio; Susannah who married David Willfong of Ross County, Ohio, and Nathaniel Champe of Detroit, who alleged that he was in the War of 1812 and referred to his father's record published in Lee's Memoirs of the Revolutionary War, in the Southern Department of the United States, vol. 2, chapter 30.
Soldier's widow, Phebe was allowed pension by a Special Act of Congress approved July 7, 1838.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

May 21, 1907..
Mrs. Mary Champe Marr, West Seattle, Washington.
Madam:
In reply to your letter without date, received in this Bureau on the 9th instant, you are herewith furnished the names of the children of John Champe as found among the papers in the claim (File 4,153) of his widow, Phebe Champe, who was fifty-nine years of age and a resident of Franklin county, Ohio, in 1818, at which time she had the following children: Eleanor, who married Jacob Hartman, Amelia, who married William Keys, William Champe and Mary Champe, residents of Pickaway county, Ohio; John Champe of Franklin county, Ohio; Susannah, who married David Willfong of Ross county, Ohio, and Nathaniel Champe of Detroit.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

VETERANS ADMINISTRATION
MEMORANDUM
Date February 27, 1937.
From Director, Dependents Claims Service To Chief Clerks Division (Attention: Mrs. Finch, Revolutionary War Records) Subject Letters from Mrs. Meady C. Becker.
The attached letters from Mrs. Meady Champe Becker, which are self-explanatory, are referred for your consideration and reply or, if not within the jurisdiction of your office, for further reference to the proper office.
Mrs. Becker has not been advised.
E. L. BAILEY

M.B.A.B.-g- File 801
Coatsville Pa
Feb. 17- 1937
E. L. Bailey
Director Department's Claims Service & they sent Veterans Administration. Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:-
I called Sir, wid. did sent copy of this letter was not sent to Rev. 11812 was sent to the about 1881 files said it is no avail 2/27/37
Your letter of Feb. 13, 1937 rec'd. And note there must be some misunderstanding- it may be I have applied to the wrong dept.
This "Serg. Maj. John Champe" was from Revolutionary Days He was the man from History records that President Gen. George Washington assigned to capture Benedict Arnold.
What I was inquiring about, is that at one time back in 1910 Congress had a bill before it- regarding a payment of claim to the heirs of this John Champe- for which Pres. George Washington had rewarded this said Champe for his deed & service in the Revolutionary War- and this bill in Congress was known as Bill "H" was introduced by Wm McKinley Senator of Ills.
Now as I said before I may have applied to the wrong dept. So would here ask that you please if possible forward this letter to Dept. that is best fitted. as I wish to know what the outcome was. As I am a Great Grand Daughter of Serg. Maj. John Champe and am naturally interested in same.
Hoping this will reach your favorable consideration and attention Thanking you- I remain Resp
Mrs Meady Champe Becker (315th Lincoln Hwy) Coatsville Pa

February 13, 1937.
MBAB-g
Mrs. Meady Champe Becker 315 W. Lincoln Hwy Coatesville, Pennsylvania
801 File
Dear Madam:
In reply to your letter of January 29, 1937, addressed to United States Claims Agency, you are advised that a careful search of the file of this Administration fails to disclose a claim for pension filed by "Serg. Maj. John Champe".
If you have reference to a pension claim, and will furnish the full name of the veteran, and that of the organization or vessel in which he served, with dates of enlistment and discharge, a further search will be made and you will be duly advised.
Respectfully
E. L. BAILEY Director Dependents Claims Service
EWB/la
EWB

Coatesville Pa
Jan. 29-1937
U. S. Claim Agency Washington D.C.
no claim no rec no P.
Dear Sir:-
2-4-37 PPK
Can you please inform me if anything was done in regard to the "Champe Claim." was reg before Congress in 1910- was introduced by Congressman Wm McKinley of Ills. Bill H. "Serg. Maj. John Champe"
The report of the Committee made in 1861 was adverse on account of exhausted condition of U. S. Treas. at that time, and the subsequent Bills failed on account of early adjournment of Congress. I am one of the direct heirs. I am Great Granddaughter of John Champe Your efforts in this matter will be greatly appreciated
Very Truly
Mrs. Champe Becker 315 W. Lincoln Hwy Coatesville Pa
RECEIVED CHIEF, WIDOW SUBDIV.
FEB - 8 1937
DEP. CLAIMS SERVICE
Referred to Mr. Neilson

Wyoming Society
PRESIDENT EDWIN E. FITCH, LARAMIE VICE-PRESIDENT MAJ. GEO. W. BROWER, FT. WARREN SECRETARY JOSEPH B. LUTZ, CHEYENNE TREASURER EDWARD H. RAWSON, LARAMIE
REGISTRAR AND HISTORIAN JOHN C. BLACKMAN, CHEYENNE BOARD OF GOVERNORS CLYDE L. TITUS, CHEYENNE CLARENCE B. RICHARDSON, CHEYENNE JAMES H. WALTON, CHEYENNE
Sons of the American Revolution
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY BOX 115, CHEYENNE
Organized May 18, 1908
4-30-34
Veterans Administration, Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:
The War department has found the name of JOHN CHAMP under the following heading:
"A list of soldiers of the Virginia line on continental establishment who have received certificates for the balance of their full pay agreeable to an act of Assembly passed November session, 1781," and suggests that your department may have more specificate reference to his military record. Such information will be gratefully received.
Sincerely yours,
J. B. Lutz, Secretary,
The family tradition is that - John Champ was from London County -

Mrs. Sidney Scales Crockett GENEALOGICAL RESEARCH 118-A SEVENTEENTH AVENUE, SOUTH Nashville, Tennessee
Jan. 25, 1933
Veterans Administration Pension Bureau Washington, D.C. Dear Sirs:
Will you kindly send me as full a copy as your time permits of the Pension papers of Sgt. Major John Champe , Col. Harry Lee's Regt. of the War of the Revolution?
Am anxious to establish names of wife and children.
He enlisted from Loudoun Co. Va., I think and was granted a pension when living in Franklin Co. Ohio.
This was the John Champe who tried to capture Arnold.
Yours very truly, Caroline C. Crockett (Mrs. S. S. Crockett)

WESLEY L. JONES, WASH., CHAIRMAN REED SMOOT, UTAH LEE S. OVERMAN, N. C. FREDERICK HALE, ME. WILLIAM J. HARRIS, GA. LAWRENCE C. PHIPPS, COLO. CARTER GLASS, VA. HENRY W. KEYES, N. H. KENNETH MCKELLAR, TENN. HIRAM BINGHAM, CONN. EDWIN S. BROUSSARD, LA. TASKER L. ODDIE, NEV. JOHN B. KENDRICK, WYO. GERALD P. NYE, N. DAK. ROYAL S. COPELAND, N. Y. W. B. PINE, OKLA. CARL HAYDEN, ARIZ. OTIS GLENN, ILL. SAM G. BRATTON, N. MEX. FREDERICK STEIWER, OREG.
KENNEDY F. REA, CLERK
United States Senate
COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
August 21, 1930.
Hon. Edward W. Morgan, Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.,
My dear Mr. Morgan:
I have been advised by the heirs of JOHN CHAMPE , a corporal and sergeant, 2d Troop, Lee's Legion Continental Troops (Virginia) 1778-79, that Mr. Champe was "voted or donated" a certain grant of land by the United States. It is stated that the grant or gift was made either to Mr. Champe or his heirs.
I will greatly appreciate it if you will have a search of your records made and advise me if any grants or warrants were made to this man or his heirs, giving a description of the land together with any details in connection with the same that may be available.
I will also appreciate it if you can give me any information relative to the service of this man in addition to that stated above, which was secured from the records of the War Department.
Very sincerely yours,

MAJORITY MEMBERS WILLIAM R. WOOD, IND., CHAIRMAN LOUIS C. CRAMTON, MICH. EDWARD H. WASON, N. H. GEORGE HOLBEN TINKHAM, MASS. BURTON L. FRENCH, IDAHO MILTON W. SHREVE, PA. L. J. DICKINSON, IOWA FRANK MURPHY, OHIO JOHN W. SUMMERS, WASH. HENRY E. BARBOUR, CALIF. ERNEST R. ACKERMAN, N. J. GUY U. HARDY, COLO. JOHN TABER, N. Y. MAURICE H. THATCHER, KY. FRANK CLAGUE, MINN. ROBERT G. SIMMONS, NEBR. WILLIAM P. HOLADAY, ILL. ROBERT L. BACON, N. Y. GEORGE A. WELSH, PA. JOHN C. ALLEN, ILL.
MINORITY MEMBERS
JOSEPH W. BYRNS, TENN. JAMES P. BUCHANAN, TEX. EDWARD T. TAYLOR, COLO. WILLIAM B. OLIVER, ALA. ANTHONY J. GRIFFIN, N. Y. THOMAS W. HARRISON, VA. JOHN N. SANDLIN, LA. WILLIAM A. AYRES, KANS. THOMAS H. CULLEN, N. Y. ROSS A. COLLINS, MISS. WILLIAM W. HASTINGS, OKLA.
MARCELLUS C. SHEILD CLERK
JOSEPH W. BYRNS 6TH DIST. TENNESSEE
House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations Seventy-First Congress Washington, D. C.
The Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
My dear Sir:
I am attaching herewith copy of letter I have received from the Adjutant General. Will you please furnish me with any information available from your files.
Very truly yours,
December 20, 1929.

(COPY) WAR DEPARTMENT THE ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE WASHINGTON
CHB
AG 201
Champe, John (12-16-29) ORD
December 20, 1929.
Honorable Joseph W. Byrns,
House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Byrns:
I have your letter of December 16, in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Champe, of Virginia, said to have been commissioned by Washington to capture and bring back Benedict Arnold.
The records show that one John Champe, Corporal and Sergeant, 2nd Troop, Lee's Legion Continental Troops (Virginia), enlisted April 7, 1778, for the war, and was promoted to Sergeant January 1, 1779. No further record of him has been found. An account of his attempt to capture Benedict Arnold is given in Lossing's Field Book of the Revolution, which publication may be consulted in most large public libraries.
The collection of Revolutionary War records in this Department is incomplete. It is possible that some information relative to the service of the above named man may be obtained from the Librarian, Virginia State Library, Richmond, or from the Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Very respectfully,
C. H. Bridges
Major General, The Adjutant General.

Normal Ill
Feb 8-1950
Department of Interior Bureau of Pensions - Washington D.C.
Dear Sirs -
Will you please find the history of John Champe, of Virginia, who fought in the Revolutionary War. would like to know his family history, as well as the service he gave.
Also - Josiah Cartridge of Cayuga Co. New York. - whose wife was Puella Higley also - Silas Stevens , of New York.
Very Truly,
Mrs W. A. Rice 203 N. University St Normal Ill.

Indianapolis Indiana
May 18 th 1925.
Commissioner of Pensions:-
Dear Sir:-
Would you please give me some information as to the Military County land warrant No. 948 for 100 acres that was issued to the heirs of John Champe. If they ever received it, and as to where it is located. I am a great grand son of Sergeant-Major John Champe.
Very Respectfully
Robert E. Moy 928 N. Rural St. Indianapolis Ind

Pension Department Washington D.C.
Will you please send me certificate of Pension of Mrs Phebe Barnard Champ, Widow of John Champ of Revolutionary War. served as private in Captain Lee's Troop of Light Dragoons, promoted to corporal & sergeant my Husband is a direct descendant.
Mrs Lewis M. Pancake 3189. North High St Columbus Ohio

1703
MISS MARY MARJORIE TYLER 11 W. 10TH STREET NEW YORK CITY
Dept. of The Interior Washington D.C.
April 3 - 1923.
Will you send me please The pension record with any family data that it may contain - of Phoebe Champe - widow of Sergt. John Champe - Soldier of The Revolution - In 1839-40 Phoebe Champe was of Norwich - Franklin Co., Ohio - where she was living with William Champe. She was then aged 83 yrs.
Very truly yours (Miss) M. M. Tyler.

Rev Sec
Logansport, Ind.
March 13-17
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:
Having been referred to you by the War Dept., I will ask if you have any information concerning Sergent Major John Champe, of Spottsylvania County Virginia, who served in Henery See's Regiment. He was chosen by See to capture Arnold, the spy; and was honorably discharged soon afterward.
Yours,

I want to join the Daughters of the Revolution and would like to get any information you might be able to give to me.
Thanking you kindly
Hoy S. Champe 11423 North St., Logansport, Ind.

O.W. 11.
Pigeon Hill Washington D.C.
C
Dear Sir -
Will you kindly send me names of children of Sgt. Jno. reg charge, to whom widow was granted pension by Second Congress, page of Journal 271 - & also record state where she & they lived at that time -
Yours - Mary Chapman Harr West Seattle Wash.