17th Oct’r, 1781

Two days ago, we cannonaded the British. They had not the heart to reply with a single shot. This morning at 11 o’clock, the First Pennsylvania Regiment mounted the trenches. A few shells were thrown by the enemy, but this proved insufficient. It is being reported throughout the camps that Cornwallis has communicated his intention to surrender. We are all in a state of highest anxiety, being in suspense as to the truth of these rumors.