The New British Command: Howe & Howe

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Despite Sir William's frivolities, he has served with great bravery, earning a reputation for combat discipline, skill in training men and planning tactical military operations. Two years ago, he created a new drill for light-infantry companies and pioneered a new system whereby flexible, fast-paced companies were attached to every regiment of the line. Lord George Germain, Britain's Secretary of State for the American Colonies and a leading advocate of an aggressive policy, remarked when Howe was appointed that no other officer was so well qualified to teach European soldiers how to fight from "behind trees, walls or hedges."

Together the Howe brothers command one of the largest military and naval forces assembled in this century. They have many choices—and almost complete discretion—about how to employ it. Both Howes are justly famous for being concerned about the welfare of their men. Sir William, for instance, was reportedly shocked by the high number of British casualties during the frontal assault on Bunker hill, which he led last summer. He is known to subscribe to the new European doctrine that pitched battles are less important than tactical maneuvering in winning wars. Continental officers were nevertheless astonished when Howe did not follow up the hard-won victory at Bunker hill by an immediate advance on the American camp at Cambridge, which would surely have fallen.

Another clue to the Howe brothers' intentions may lie in reports from London that Admiral Howe agreed to accept his command only with the understanding that he would have the right to act as a Royal Commissioner in attempting to work out a reconciliation with the Colonies. Although no details are known, military sources in London believe that Howe hopes to persuade the Continental Army to lay down its arms in exchange for new negotiations. If so, he has very little chance of succcess.